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Cross Country Moving Checklist – Things You Should Do On The Day Of Your Big Move

cross country moving

You already know that moving is difficult, and doing so across the country can be particularly challenging. Moving across state lines is a time-consuming process that requires patience and preparation, from packing goods and locating a place to live to weighing moving options and meeting new acquaintances. However, we can assist if you require a cross-country relocation guide. Moving Cross country can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. We’ll guide you through and provide money-saving tips in the cross country moving process.

1 to 2 Months Prior to your Cross Country Move, Start Preparing

1. Choose between DIY moving and hiring moving professionals

Determine the logistics of a cross country move, such as how you want to do it, to start the preparation process. Do you believe you can complete the relocation on your own or will you need expert assistance? Simply simply, will you rent a vehicle or work with a moving company?

Use our list of the top truck rental businesses to find one if you’re renting a truck for your relocation. Read the next part to learn the process’s step-by-step breakdown for individuals who are thinking about hiring specialists.

2. If you determine you need assistance, look into professional movers.

One of the most crucial pieces of advice in our cross country moving guide is to be sure you interview at least three movers and compare rates before selecting one. Visit one of our other posts for suggestions on things to inquire about from your movers when you interview them. We advise researching the moving firms eight weeks in advance, requesting quotations, and hiring them at least seven weeks beforehand.

To start, look through our database of moving companies to identify trustworthy and reputable movers. This directory features client testimonials as well as the U.S. The DOT number, BBB rating, and any formal complaints lodged with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are also required. Additionally, you may learn if the moving business is affiliated with the American Moving & Storage Association.

Next, seek for an interstate mover’s U.S. address to see whether they have a license. In the FMCSA’s database, DOT number. Additionally, you should verify the moving company’s insurance coverage. You should be able to request sufficient documents to support this from moving companies.

Finally, before providing you with a price, movers should either conduct an in-person check of your things or a video survey of them. Alert yourself if the mover provides you with a quote over the internet without examining your goods or if it appears too good to be true. These are two serious cautionary signs that shouldn’t be disregarded.

3. Think about getting moving insurance

You should carefully consider your alternatives for valuation coverage before selecting a moving firm. Keep in mind that the company’s basic, complimentary protection only offers the minimal necessities.

Don’t be hesitant to pay for the Full Value Protection if you feel that you require further security. This will make your mover liable for the items’ actual cash value. For even more complete coverage, think about getting moving insurance from a separate insurance provider.

4. Visit the city before you relocate

We strongly advise visiting your new city or town at least once before relocating across the nation. You can better understand the area and its many neighborhoods in this manner.

You can either go to the town’s visitor center for brochures, maps, and suggestions or bring a guidebook with you. If you are a hotel guest, ask the concierge for advice. Along with the city’s tourist attractions, we advise exploring the neighborhood’s hotspots and off-the-beaten-path hangouts. The folks you come across along the road will no doubt be eager to share their opinions with you!

5. Remotely research your prospective community

If you can’t visit, you can learn a lot about your new town or city by doing research online and reading reviews on websites. To find out how accessible your new town or city will be on foot, by bike, or by public transportation, check out Walk Score. Join Nextdoor to get to know your new neighbors and experience the hyper-local feel of your community. Or use AreaVibes to look up the livability rating. Discover more about your new neighborhood using Neighborhood Scout, which will give you details on real estate, demographics, crime, schools, and more for those who don’t mind paying a monthly fee.

In Google Maps, you may use Google Street View to “visit” your new neighborhood. Utilizing cameras that concurrently capture images in numerous directions, Google creates street view imagery. Later, the photos are stitched and layered to create a single 360-degree image. You can enlarge and rotate the view by selecting “Street View & 360°” from the menu. Although these pictures aren’t always updated, they’re nonetheless helpful.

6. Schools for research in the area

Do you have kids that are school-age, speaking about research? Then, before moving on to the rest of our cross country moving advice, you might wish to complete this following step. Put examining the local schools at the top of your cross-country moving to-do list. If you want to enroll your child in a public school, find out where the schools are located and go from there.

Use Goempiremovers.com School Ratings, which includes GreatSchools ratings and other useful data, to identify the best schools in your new neighborhood. Additionally, you can get more information on the website of the relevant school board.

7. Set a moving budget.

Cross country moving won’t be inexpensive. But perhaps our cross country moving guide can help you avoid spending too much money. First, keep in mind that hiring professional movers for an out-of-state move typically costs $4,890 (for a 1,000-mile travel). Even if you’re considering a do-it-yourself move, you’ll still need to budget for a rental truck or container, packing materials, and other related costs.

Determine your budget next. Start by considering how much you are prepared (and able) to spend while traveling. Then, make a list of all your moving-related expenses. Most crucial, keep in mind to set aside a little extra cash for unforeseen expenses.

8. Analyze the cost of life

You’ll need to set aside money not only for the move, but also for what comes next. Finding a job that can support your lifestyle and limiting your house search will be made easier if you already know where you’re moving to and have some notion of the cost of living there. Additionally, if you’re still unsure about where you want to reside, comparing the cost of living in several locations might help you make a more informed decision. Take a look at what it costs for things like housing, electricity, healthcare, education, food, and taxes.

Visit websites that offer this precise information, such as Numbeo and AreaVibe. You can select a city where you’ll feel at home by using the Goempiremomvers.com City Profile reports, which provide an overview of demographics, finances, and other quality-of-life characteristics. The US is also included in it. Population estimates and predictions from the Census Bureau, information on household income and employment, and residential information, such as the median house value and commuting times.

9. Plan beforehand for any changes to the tax rates.

Plan to pay taxes in two states in the year of the move. You must file tax returns in the new state where you intend to establish residency as well as probably in the state where you previously called home. To ease the transition, it can be a good idea to hire an accountant before the first year. However, you can get assistance from any tax software these days.

Moving to a state without an income tax is the only situation in which you won’t have to pay taxes in two states. Those who aren’t must learn when to begin paying their home’s property taxes. State-by-state variations in property tax rates need budgeting for potential increases as well.

10. Look into employer relocation support

Do you need to relocate far away for work? Then, find out if your employer intends to pay for your moving expenditures. Many businesses provide employees with some kind of job relocation package, however it is not a requirement. An employee’s relocating fees are frequently covered in full or in part by a job relocation package, which is frequently negotiable.

It’s in your best interest to pay as little as possible while moving, regardless of whether you’re a new hire moving for your job or a current employee who is being relocated to another area. Ask your employer if they will provide you with a relocation budget to get the process started. Then, to keep educated and effectively bargain, read our opinion of what should be included in a job relocation package.

11. Make a checklist and moving file.

You can finish all the tasks you need to complete for your forthcoming relocation by using a moving checklist. Choose the moving checklist that best fits your needs from the ones we have available, whether you’re relocating with children or pets. Additionally, you can create a unique moving checklist by combining a few of ours in a way that best satisfies your requirements.

Another excellent technique to maintain organization (and sanity) is to place all of your paperwork in a binder or movable file. It’s critical to maintain a copy of the pamphlet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” as well as your moving estimate, bill of lading, inventory records, and other relevant paperwork. Then, you’ll also need to keep your driver’s license, voter registration card, school records, pet-related documents, crucial paperwork and documentation related to changing your billing address (such as credit cards, utilities, and memberships).

12. Get a place to stay

Before moving, it would be ideal if you could find a new home to reside. We advise renting for the first six months to gain a feel for the city, unless you already know the region well or have a strong plan to buy right away. Employ a trustworthy realtor to show you homes in the neighborhood(s) of your choosing if you want to find a safe, affordable place to reside.

Your search for a home should be smoothly guided by an experienced real estate agent. They have to be well-versed in the regional marketplace and capable of assisting you with any paperwork or legal requirements related to the transaction. To discover a realtor in your new state, search the Realtor.com network of agents.

13. Order every item you’ll need for relocation.

To begin packing as soon as possible, order your moving supplies as least a month before the relocation. You can use our packing calculator to get an idea of how many boxes you’ll need. Boxes, packing paper and tape, plastic and bubble wrap, shipping tape, labels, and markers are all examples of packing supplies.

If you’re planning a DIY move, you’ll also require moving tools, such as a basic tool set (for disassembling and reassembling furniture), dollies, furniture pads/moving blankets, lifting and cargo straps, and a ramp. Any other materials you need to take into account before making a purchase should be included in our comprehensive list of moving supplies.

14. Create a smart packaging approach.

Make a plan before you start to pack up your belongings. It will be much simpler to unpack in your new house if you pack thoughtfully. We advise putting all non-essentials in your bag first. Anything that you won’t need in the weeks before the relocation, such as books, furniture, and huge devices, is considered a non-essential.

Last to be packed are your necessities. These should include any seasonal clothing you intend to wear during the move and immediately thereafter, as well as kitchenware, crockery, toiletries, small devices, and other necessary items.

15. While you can, reduce your workload

The weight of your things will have a significant impact on how much a cross-country move will cost. Your move will cost more the more times you relocate. You’ll want to save money anywhere you can because cross-country moves typically cost several thousand dollars, so you might want to consider decreasing your load.

Donate stuff that you won’t need in your new home to a nearby charity to make packing easier. Better still, give them to a charity like the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, or Goodwill that will pick them up for free. Naturally, pick-ups must adhere to specific requirements, but if you need to get rid of anything bigger, like a sofa or entertainment center, these services might be helpful.

16. Make the required trip preparations.

Making travel plans is typically required when moving a long distance. Just be sure to organize your trips well in advance of the move. Making reservations for a flight or a rental car, booking a hotel, or, if necessary, making additional overnight preparations are a few examples of travel arrangements to take into account.

The delivery of goods by moving companies frequently takes a week or longer. As a result, be careful to have arrangements in place for temporary accommodation if necessary. Alternatively, if you’re remaining in your new home, be sure to have any other requirements on hand, such as clothing, cookware, and toiletries.

17. Plan and switch your utilities.

Make sure to inform your utility companies that you are moving by calling them. Consider things like cable and internet, water and sewage, gas, electricity, and, if necessary, a security system.

Have you already established a home base in your new state? Do not be timid! Set a date for the transfer or installation now. So that you won’t have to worry about it at the most stressful times of your move, you can arrange it well in advance.

18. Transfer or cancel all memberships.

We advise canceling or transferring all subscriptions as quickly as possible unless you want to be stuck paying for a gym you no longer use. This also applies to homeowner or neighborhood associations, fitness centers, and community clubs.

When terminating an account with many membership programs, at least one month’s notice is typically required. They’re usually quite understanding if you’re in a contract and moving more than 50 miles away. If the city you’re moving to has any locations nearby, make sure to transfer your membership before you relocate. By doing this, you can enter the club as soon as you’re prepared to start going again.

19. Your professional licenses transfer

If you are a licensed professional, such as a doctor, nurse, lawyer, teacher, or realtor, our guide on cross-country relocating has you covered. Why? We don’t want you to forget to transfer your professional license, so please don’t.

The license requirements and transfer regulations vary by state. So that you don’t have any employment gaps, do your research in advance. If you already have a job set up and want to start working as soon as you get to your new house, it will also be useful.

20. Notify schools of your new address and transfer your records.

Moving with kids in school? You must inform their present school of the change. You’ll also need to transfer school records as soon as you can after enrolling your children in their new school.

Letters of recommendation, medical records, and proof of immunization are some more crucial paperwork you might need to provide to the new school. Ask the new school for a list of any books or other materials required, as well as information on any extracurricular activities they provide.

21. Talk to your kids about the move.

To avoid any surprises, parents who are moving with children should talk to them in advance about the move. Early talk with your kids about the move will allow them have time to process it.

Additionally, they will have plenty of opportunity to bid farewell to classmates, friends, neighbors, and teachers. If you have the time and resources, you may even host a gathering where everyone can say farewell to help them go on.

22. Prepare your pet for travel.

Research pet-friendly accommodations you can use when traveling a few weeks in advance. If you plan to travel by air, make sure your pet has a seat reserved for them. Depending on their size, your pet might not be permitted to fly in the cabin according to the rules that each airline has in place.

Visit your veterinarian to ensure that your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccines before you move. As it could take some time to build a rapport with a new vet, don’t forget to gather all medical documents and current prescriptions before you leave.

23. Make arrangements for car shipping.

You must make arrangements for a car shipping service to transport your vehicle for you if you do not intend to drive it to your new residence. You can ship the car in a number of ways, such as using Amtrak’s Auto Train, hiring a professional driver to drive it for you, or working with an auto transport business.

Anyone moving their car with an auto transport business has the option of employing an enclosed carrier or an open-air carrier. The open-air carrier is the most popular choice because it can store more automobiles and is typically less expensive than the alternative. To keep your precious or vintage vehicle safe from the weather, we advise using the enclosed carrier option.

24. Clean up your storage space

If you won’t be coming back, be careful to empty your storage unit before the relocation. To find out how to cancel a storage unit, visit the website of your storage company well in advance.

They frequently want you to clean out the device and restore it to its pre-loss state. Additionally, they’ll need to know as soon as you leave the apartment. Unless you decide to rent another storage unit in your new location, go ahead and unpack these goods once you’ve transferred your belongings to the new house with the rest of your stuff.

25. Examine the floor plan of the house before ordering any furnishings.

Before the relocation, you’ll need a thorough copy of the floor plan for your new house. This will not only help with planning what goes where but also with ordering furniture and other household necessities.

You should order any necessary things prior to the transfer because furniture can take weeks or even months to arrive. This will be simpler if you have a floor plan with accurate measurements, which will also guarantee that whatever you order will fit in the house.

26. Send your mail ahead

It’s simple to forward your snail mail and can be done well in advance. You only need to go to USPS.com and select the day you want to start forwarding mail on.

Considering leasing a P.O. In your new city, Box? Then, use a suggestion from our cross-country moving guide and look at goempiremovers.com instructions for setting up a P.O. When moving, pack a box.

27. Tell people you’re relocating by

Remember to inform your friends, family, neighbors, and workplace of your impending move! However, it’s likely that you won’t have enough time to meet with each person one-on-one to inform them of the transfer.

Instead, try sending a straightforward email that includes your new mailing address and any other information you want to provide about the transfer. To give yourself a specific time and location to say your goodbyes, you may consider plan a “going away” party or gathering.

28. Record your possessions.

We advise taking pictures and/or videos of every item as you pack it into a box so you have a record of its state before the relocation. This way, you will have evidence that the items were treated improperly if anything breaks or gets damaged while in the hands of the movers.

This could be very beneficial later on when you want to make a claim and get money for your possessions. When comparing the before and after in these situations, nothing works better than proof.

29. Spend more time with your family.

You leave behind loved ones, such as your family members, when you move across the country. Spend some time saying farewell to loved ones and even close friends. You should plan one-on-one time with these significant individuals in your life. Invite them out for lunch or supper, or spend the day doing something you both enjoy, like going to the movies.

Then bid everyone a fond farewell. This might take the form of a farewell party in your house or something more official, like inviting everyone to gather at your favorite hangout spot. It will allow you one final opportunity to speak with your loved ones before you leave the state, either way.

30. A Few Days Before Your Cross-Country Move: Preparing

Verify with the movers the day and time of the move.

At least one week before to the move, a reputable moving company will phone to confirm the specifics of your move. Nevertheless, we advise checking in the following week to be sure that the movers show up at the right address on the scheduled moving date.

This will ease the stress of the transfer and, at the very least, give you piece of mind. Additionally, you’ll be given a window to know when everything on your end needs to be finished.

31. Organize a move-out cleaning with cleaners.

You’ll need to employ someone to perform a deep cleaning of the home unless you intend to clean the home or apartment yourself. You must ensure that all repairs have been finished before the relocation if you rent a home.

Before the tenant vacates, landlords typically want the walls painted and the nail holes filled. Before leaving, be careful to ask your landlord what needs to be cleaned and changed.

32. Put your essentials in a suitcase and leave with it.

Another crucial piece of advice from our cross-country moving guide: If you’re moving far away, you probably won’t get your goods for at least a week after the move. Even if you relocate yourself, the majority of your belongings will be in boxes, making it challenging to locate what you need as you start to settle into your new home.

We advise putting at least one week’s worth of necessities in your suitcase. This ought to include things like clothes, shoes, toiletries, medications, a first aid kit, and electrical device chargers.

33. The new tenants or landlord the keys.

It’s time to give the keys to the new owners or landlord once you’ve moved out and are no longer in need of them. You can typically count on the realtor selling your house to take care of this process on your behalf.

If you have a landlord, you should check with them to see if they prefer a face-to-face meeting or prefer that you hide it on the property. It’s wise to inquire in advance because they might even want you to give it to the new tenants. Whatever you do, we strongly advise against shipping the key because packages sometimes get missing in the mail.

34. On moving day, get ready for your cross-country move.

Play games with the youngsters and keep your animals safe.

Pets and children underfoot can make moving days more difficult. Younger kids should have a babysitter, while larger kids should be kept busy with games and activities. Before you go, you can also arrange for them to have playdates with particular friends and members of your family.

Secure your pets so they can’t interfere with the move or, worse yet, escape by finding a safe place to keep them. Use a fence, container, carrier, or make other arrangements for them to be somewhere else entirely.

35. Request the driver’s cell phone number.

Your stuff may not arrive for a week or longer if you are moving across the country. You should ask the driver for their contact information so you may stay informed about the progress of the moving truck.

Your moving firm should offer some means for you to follow your driver, whether it is by phone or email. Frequently, a moving business employee will get in touch with the driver on your behalf. There is hence no need to fret excessively. Just make sure you’re organized in advance.

36. Bring valuables and crucial documents with you.

Packing valuables like jewels and family heirlooms separately from the rest of your belongings is advised. Any valuables should be packed in a distinct bag with tight security.

A marriage license or a birth certificate are examples of crucial papers and documents that fit this description. All of these should be kept with you at all times when traveling cross-country to ensure their security.

37. Remember to give your movers a tip for a job well done.

There is no need to tip more while relocating across the nation. Do you think your movers did a great job? To make your life simpler and the tipping process more consistent, we suggest using the following straightforward formula for movers conducted by a single crew: Tip $10 per hour for each mover.

We advise tipping both teams — the one that loaded your items at your old home and the one that unloaded them at your new home — if the crews on both ends performed satisfactorily. On both ends of the transfer, start with $10 per hour each mover. Depending on how well you do your task, you can always increase or decrease the amount.

After Your Cross-Country Move: What to Do

38. Make a plan for unpacking

As soon as you arrive at your new residence, begin unpacking your bag of necessities. After making the necessary beds for the night, concentrate on the kitchen. It will seem more like home in your new residence if the kitchen is practical. Even better, you and your family won’t have to rely on takeaway to eat.

Put the living room and bathroom next. You should be aware that you don’t have to finish unpacking everything in one week or even one month when you start to unpack other rooms. Take your time, but think about planning a housewarming party so you have a target date for finishing the unpacking of all your boxes.

39. Obtain a new license for driving

A new driver’s license is required, which you can get from the DMV in your new state. Check your state’s laws carefully, as many jurisdictions have deadlines for new residents to obtain their driver’s licenses after they move in.

Despite the fact that each state has its own requirements for transferring a driver’s license, you’ll almost certainly need your current license, proof of domicile, and a copy of your social security card.

40. Voter registration

Once you move, make sure to update your voter registration. You can then cast your ballot and take part in all upcoming elections. Additionally, you won’t be left in a bind when you learn it’s too late to register for the following election.

Fortunately, there are usually several options available for registering to vote, including online registration, mail-in registration, and in-person voter registration. Choose the option that suits you the most, and take care of this crucial next stage in your cross-country moving procedure.

41. Plan a handyman visit

When relocating, it’s common to hang art, install TVs, and complete other handicraft tasks to make the new location feel more like home. It could also entail replacing outdated fixtures or doing minor repairs.

Once you start to settle into your new home, make sure to select a renowned, trustworthy handyman. Then, you can do these tasks as quickly as possible. Try using websites like Angi (formerly Angie’s List) or apps like Thumbtack to identify trustworthy professionals.

42. Obtain a pet license.

Most states require you to have a license for your dog or cat. A license guarantees that animals are up to date on all vaccines, including rabies jabs, and won’t endanger the neighborhood.

Don’t forget to license your pet once you’ve settled in. Many states require pet owners to register their animals within a month of relocating or obtaining them, though conditions and deadlines vary by jurisdiction.

43. Examine your possessions for damage.

Make sure to thoroughly inspect each item as you unpack your stuff, especially any large or pricey goods like furniture, electronics, or artwork. You might be able to file a claim and get money back for your compromised products if your possessions were destroyed or damaged while in transit.

Any pictures you may have taken of your possessions before the transfer may be useful at this point. Simply note the variations between the state of your belongings and the images or videos taken before to the move. Additionally, these pictures will support your argument.

44. When you have time, treat yourself.

Make the transition less stressful, and when time permits, take a break. Walk, read, or practice meditation. Going to the gym or a nearby yoga studio can also help you feel less stressed and anxious.

You could even schedule a spa day if you have the time. However, even a short snooze will leave you feeling revived and prepared to tackle the unpacking, organizing, and furniture moving tasks once more.

45. Never be reluctant to make new friends.

When you relocate to a new place for the first time, especially if you don’t know anyone, meeting people and developing new acquaintances takes time and effort. We advise starting with your coworkers and neighbors. When you come across someone new, don’t be hesitant to introduce yourself and start a discussion.

Taking lessons, joining a club or app, becoming engaged in the community, volunteering, or simply saying “yes” when potential friends invite you to go out to dinner, events, or the like are additional ways to meet people in a new place.

10 Suggestions for Lowering the Cost of a Cross-Country Move

Moving across the nation is expensive, but you may be able to reduce costs with some careful planning. Here are some tips as we continue with our cross-country moving guide.

1. Move yourself

The least expensive method of moving is to pack up your stuff and drive them to your new residence. This can entail clearing up a lot of clutter, giving away things, and selling your possessions. But if moving costs are a big consideration, this might be the wisest course of action.

Truck rentals not only help you move more affordably, but they are also simple to locate. The following companies rent trucks: U-Haul, Budget, Enterprise, and Penske. In addition to petrol expenditures, there are additional charges related to a do-it-yourself relocation, such as truck rental.

2. Think about a mobile storage container

There are less expensive alternatives to using expert movers that will reduce your moving expenses. You could, for instance, hire a mobile storage container. These moving boxes can also be used as short-term storage boxes.

For an out-of-state transfer, renting a portable moving container may cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per month. Remember that the price is based on the length of the rental and the size of the container.

3. Pick a hybrid maneuver.

A hybrid move combines self-help and professional relocation assistance. For instance, you might pack everything yourself and hire movers to assist you in loading the stuff into a van or vehicle that you have rented.

You would also engage a different crew of movers in that area to assist you with unloading after you arrived at your new home. You might also decide to pack and load everything yourself before hiring a firm to move your belongings. In essence, you can hire someone else to handle any aspect of your relocation that you don’t want to or can’t handle yourself.

4. Pick a less expensive moving date.

The cost of your relocation can vary greatly depending on the day you move. You might save money on truck rentals, hiring movers, and other relocation-related expenses by avoiding busy moving days and times.

Weekends, the months from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the first and last weeks of the month, and holidays are a few peak moving dates to steer clear of (if at all feasible). Aim for a weekday, mid-month transfer between October and April.

5. Send your possessions

Shipping your stuff is a terrific way to move cross-country when relocating only a modest amount of items, even though it isn’t the most common moving choice. It may also be among the most practical relocation solutions.

In addition to using USPS, FedEx, and UPS to transport small products, you can also use a variety of internet service providers, like uShip.com, to ship larger items. Make sure to do plenty of research in advance for whatever you buy to avoid being surprised by the price.

6. Uncover free moving boxes and equipment

Gathering and utilizing as many free moving goods as you can is one of the best strategies to reduce moving expenses when moving a long distance. Find secondhand boxes, packaging materials, and bubble wrap at local stores, online stores, or community organizations.

The Nextdoor app, bookstores, offices, recycling drop-off locations, supermarket and liquor stores, neighborhood schools, and big-box retailers are the greatest places to hunt for free moving goods. Additionally, we advise requesting any extra boxes or supplies from friends and family.

7. Use the original packaging for appliances and devices.

Reuse your existing moving boxes from previous purchases while we’re on the subject of free moving boxes. Most electronics and countertop appliances, including the TV and InstantPot, are shipped in cardboard boxes.

We advise using these boxes again during the transfer if you still have them. Not only does this guarantee that everything will fit snugly inside the box, but also prevents you from having to pay for unnecessary stuff like boxes.

8. Pay for the move on behalf of your employer

Find a new position? Congrats! We strongly advise asking the firm about their relocation procedures if you’re relocating for work. Ask the HR department before your first day; many firms will cover all or a portion of the transfer. They can even have a particular cross-country moving firm they favor.

Save any moving receipts, including those for moving goods, if your employer does pay for the relocation. In this manner, you’ll be able to keep track of your costs and get fairly compensated for the relocation.

9. Enlist the assistance of family and friends

You can always enlist the assistance of friends and family in addition to professional moving aid. This is most likely the least expensive cross-country moving option.

But you might have to accommodate other people’s schedules. You can also think about finding a different approach to say thank you to your family and friends. A little bit goes a big way – think pizza, champagne, or a gift card!

10. Look for discounts where you can

Do your homework on moving firms, moving containers, truck rentals, and moving supply stores that provide bargains and discounts before the big day. These reductions are frequently so substantial that they elevate an expensive moving business to the position of most affordable choice.

10 Tips for Cross Country Moving on the Road

Moving across the nation is the ideal justification for organizing the ultimate road vacation, particularly if you’re delegating all the labor-intensive tasks to experts. You won’t have to bother with driving a sizable, challenging moving truck, safeguarding your boxes and items throughout the transfer, or the time restraints that come with renting a moving truck if a professional moving company is transporting your possessions.

You can still enjoy yourself on the road even if you’re driving yourself. Driving across the country in your own automobile can be gratifying in many ways, even though it is not as simple as flying. A road trip should, of course, always be carefully planned. Without adequate planning, you can encounter difficulties along the route. Here are 10 road trip suggestions to remember while you travel the country.

1. Make a cross-country travel plan.

You should map out the route you want to travel for your cross-country move as the first stage in this procedure. Plan your path to your final destination around the places you want to visit and any family or friends you want to visit along the way.

When organizing a road trip, you should also take into account any highway or traffic issues, weather alerts, or any regions you want to avoid for any reason. Research the possibilities for gas stations, eateries, and rest stops once you’ve chosen which interstates and routes to take.

2. Make a budget for the journey.

Make a budget for all necessary expenses before setting out on a cross-country drive. By doing this, you can calculate exactly how much cash you’ll need for lodging, food, and petrol before you start your journey.

It will probably cost an arm and a leg to relocate your household goods if you hire a professional moving company. Don’t forget to factor this cost into your overall travel budget.

3. Get your vehicle ready for long distance driving

Have you recently had your automobile serviced? Before starting your cross-country road journey, have your automobile serviced if you intend to drive your own vehicle and not a rental. Check the brakes, tire pressure, and fluid levels.

Additionally, check that the automobile battery, electronics, and lights are all in good working order. Of course, make sure to change your oil and, if necessary, fill up your petrol tank.

4. Take a cooler

A cooler should always be available when traveling by car. You’ll not only be able to keep extra snacks and drinks cool while traveling, but you’ll also be able to avoid making unnecessary stops for meals. Talk about comfort!

Fearing that the cooler won’t stay cold? Fortunately, it’s simple to replace bags of ice and drain most coolers at gas stations and grocery stores while traveling to your new residence.

5. Put together a playlist or get podcasts

The best method to make a long cross-country road trip pass more quickly is to listen to a combination of uplifting music and amusing podcasts. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes before you leave on the trip.

Remember that while driving, you can lose radio or phone signals. You can continue to listen to music and podcasts without interruption if you download the material before the trip starts.

6. Make reservations for hotels in advance.

Determine where and when you want to stop when mapping out your itinerary. Then, you can make hotel reservations in advance to avoid having to spend the night in an unfamiliar location or even in your car.

Additionally, you won’t have to pay any exorbitant last-minute costs and might even receive a respectable discount. Give your friends or relatives plenty of notice if you intend to stay with them.

7. Plan out your drive.

Timing is essential, especially when traveling long distances by car. To prevent falling asleep or having to navigate any new, dark roads, we advise only traveling during the day. As you travel to your destination, keep any time zone variations in mind.

Research the best and worst times to drive through certain places in advance as well. For instance, you might want to avoid certain roadways on Saturday afternoons if it’s college football season. Otherwise, you risk prolonging your already lengthy road trip by being caught in bumper-to-bumper gridlock.

8. To make the most room in your suitcase, use packing cubes.

Unfortunately, there is a limited amount of space in your car for personal items. When packing for a road trip, be sure to get a suitcase that is simple to maneuver and can be carried into and out of motels.

We advise utilizing packing cubes to get the most of the space in your suitcase. With the help of these effective packing gadgets, you may pack as much as you can while maintaining your organization when traveling. While you’re at it, have a look at our moving-related packing advice.

9. Ensure that the vehicle has all the required documentation.

Make sure you have all of the essential paperwork for your vehicle on hand before you get on the road. We’re referring to records like a current driver’s license, evidence of auto insurance, a vehicle registration, the car’s owner’s manual, and the title. In the event that you are in a car accident, are stopped by the police, or experience automotive difficulty, you will require this documentation.

Keep your birth certificate and social security card, as well as any other documents pertaining to your identity, with you at all times. The last thing you want is to move into your new house and struggle to recall where you kept such important papers.

10. Maintain communication with your moving company’s driver.

It’s simple to lose sight of why you’re doing the road trip in the first place with all the places to see and people to meet along the way, so smart move! But keep an eye on your mover’s whereabouts no matter what happens.

Every few days, make sure you call your driver for an update and an ETA. As a result, you can either arrange to be present when the driver comes or designate a friend or relative to do so and supervise the unloading portion of the move.

10 Pointers for Flying Across Country

A practical option to relocating by truck or automobile is by airline. When you need to get from point A to point B as soon as possible, it might just be your best (or only) alternative.

Even though it could seem like a difficult undertaking, traveling by plane can be reasonably stress-free and cost-effective. So, here are 10 suggestions for your upcoming flight.

1. Ensure choosing to relocate by plane is the best choice.

We advise asking yourself these seven crucial questions when considering whether to fly or drive for a long-distance transfer if driving is a possibility.

  • How far do you travel? Flying makes more logical as distance increases.
  • How many items are you required to bring? You can only bring a few suitcases and carry-on luggage when you travel by air. Thus, make sure to account for that.
  • Are both your residences close to an airport? When considering whether to drive or fly for a long-distance move, the distance to and from an airport is crucial. We strongly advise avoiding the stress of driving if your new house is close to an airport.
  • How long do you have to get moving? Do you have a tight deadline? Therefore, flying is the quickest means of relocation. Driving, however, can be more economical if your moving timeframe is flexible.
  • Is there a car to be moved? When traveling across the country, there is still another important subject to consider. It is recommended to drive yourself if you want to save money on auto transport. However, if you must fly for any reason, hire a seasoned auto transporter.
  • Are you going on your own? You must take into consideration any moving companions. Partner or spouse? Kids? aging relatives? Are there any animals involved? In many cases, the cost of a plane ticket will be higher than the cost of a car.
  • Can you travel by air? Flying is expensive, and traveling by air is significantly more expensive, particularly when doing it with others or during particular seasons of the year. Additionally, there are charges for checked bags, pets, and meals while traveling. Decide on a budget, make a schedule, and investigate your options before purchasing tickets.

2. Plan carefully and then again.

You should start your planning process by investigating the baggage policies of several airlines in addition to looking for the best ticket costs. There are restrictions on the amount of bags and boxes you can check with some airlines, and there are weight and size restrictions for all of them.

You might not be able to bring everything with you on the aircraft depending on how much you need to bring, so it’s critical to know exactly what the airline will allow — and how much it will cost — before booking a travel. Do your homework online to ensure you have the most recent information on baggage policies, but don’t be hesitant to call various airlines to ask them directly about how much you can bring and how much they charge.

3. Get rid of a few of your possessions.

When moving by airline, especially if you intend to bring all of your belongings, you frequently need to be quite picky about what you bring and don’t bring. Your move’s permanence and the kinds of storage choices you have will also affect how you pare down your possessions.

Your best option if you’re relocating far away is to take some time to get rid of everything you own. Consider recycling, donating, or even tossing away goods that you no longer need.

4. Your packing space by two

You’ll need to get creative with packing in order to use your space as effectively as possible once you know how many bags or boxes you can bring along with you and how much each container can weigh. Utilize as much space as possible by placing clothing and linens in compression bags, which may easily fit twice as much in each bag. Additionally, they are particularly helpful for packing large things like blankets, sweaters, and parkas.

Keeping in mind that they are vacuum-sealed to suction out all the air, compression bags flatten as much as they can. Additionally, there are compression bags designed specifically for travel that can be rolled flat and don’t need a vacuum pump. Really practical, no?

5. Know the pet-related rules of your airline.

If you’re taking a flight with your pet, find out in advance what paperwork you’ll need (proof of immunization, for instance), whether the animal needs to be microchipped, and which seats they can travel in. Typically, a carrier that fits beneath a seat in the cabin is able to transport a small dog or cat.

However, larger animals must travel as freight. Research the rules in advance because they differ depending on the airline. The vet can help you control your pet’s nervousness before leaving as you are the expert on your dog or cat.

6. Before leaving, weigh your bags.

Avoid taking the chance of arriving at the airport just to discover that your bags are too large to be checked. Use a digital luggage scale to check the weight of your containers instead before leaving; you can find one online for as low as $10.

Most also have built-in tape measures so you can confirm your baggage don’t exceed the airline’s size restrictions. A tiny thing to pay for not having to hold your breath at the check-in counter is having digital luggage scales. Heavy costs are frequently assessed for overweight bags, which easily blows your relocation budget.

7. Send your items as needed

When traveling by flying, you might need to consider alternatives to using the cargo hold on your preferred carrier. You’ll need to use alternative shipping methods if the items you wish to transport are larger than the airline’s luggage allowance or if you need to ship huge, delicate pieces of furniture.

Famous courier services like USPS, UPS, or FedEx can pack and ship stuff to your new house securely. Overall, this option can be quite pricey, therefore we only advise taking it into account if you need to transport bulky or heavy things.  However, it’s unquestionably a choice you should take into account if you’re moving across the country.

8. Get a moving container on rent

Rent a moving container, which will be delivered to you so you can pack when it suits you, picked up, and taken to your new house. Get quotations from at least three moving container companies in advance, just as with any other moving service, to ensure you get the best deal.

Goempiremovers.com fortunately has you covered. Here, you may quickly and conveniently receive a moving container quote. Hey, you don’t have to worry about crossing it off your list of things to do anymore!

9. Think about using movers who are experts.

The finest of all worlds is possible. Yes, you may always enlist the help of a moving company to transport your possessions from your old house to your new one while you fly there.

Get an idea of how much you should budget by using our moving cost calculator. You must first determine how much they are taking and how far your movers will need to drive.

10. If you’re bringing boxes or household items, check with the airline first.

The good news is that the TSA allows small household appliances and gadgets like desktop computers, clocks, and coffee makers on flights. Additionally, according to TSA, you can typically examine smaller items of furniture as long as they meet the criteria. Please verify with the airline ahead of time as some charge extra fees.  Large furniture pieces will undoubtedly need to be delivered or taken by movers.

As for boxes, you can verify them without a problem if they meet the necessary specifications. The size and weight of the luggage you are bringing, not necessarily the type of luggage, are what the air travel regulations are concerned about. Therefore, everything from boxes to suitcases to athletic goods to backpacks is accepted.

Cross Country Moving Checklist – Things You Should Do On The Day Of Your Big Move