Moving across country can be a bit more involving because it takes more effort and preparation than moving across town. Furthermore, this move can have you separated from your possessions for some time.
Although a cross country move involves considerable planning and might be overwhelming, these tips will facilitate a smooth process while helping you stay organized.
1. Establish Your Method of Moving
There are various ways to move your possessions across the country. There’s the conventional method of packing everything into your car, you can rent a truck or engage experts with a full-service moving firm.
If you decide to use a moving company to assist with the process, obtain estimates early to locate the ideal company. You should also contact the movers in advance to verify their availability for the dates you need them.
2. Label Everything and Maintain an Inventory
This is particularly important if you’re using movers or you plan to have your belongings shipped. Remember, the more complex the move is, the higher the likelihood of losing stuff.
If you begin early, you can maintain a detailed inventory of the number of boxes as well as what each box contains. While packing, take photographs of your valuables and label the boxes for easy identification.
This way, you’ll know whether everything arrived at the new place. Furthermore, labeling will make the unpacking process easier. Although this might seem like considerable work, you will appreciate the documentation in the event that you lose something.
3. Use Durable Packing Materials
Your stuff will be in a moving truck and the journey is likely to be rough, so protect your belongings by packing them carefully, with sturdy boxes and lots of padding.
You should consider plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes since bins are waterproof and typically more durable. You’ll also use them in various ways around the home after the move.
4. Take Important Items/Documents with You
While transporting household items across the country, you’ll need immediate access to important documents. Prepare a list of documents that you wouldn’t want to lose or those you believe you’ll need throughout and after the move.
Such items include your birth certificate, passport, insurance papers, and valuable jewelry. Make sure you place them in organized folders, so you can track them easily upon arrival.
It’s also important you keep these documents and items rather than pack them in the moving boxes. This way, you won’t have to worry about losing them.
5. Give Yourself Sufficient Planning Time
When making a cross-country move, you must begin preparing and planning approximately eight weeks before your scheduled date. Bear in mind that the key to a successful move is foresight and careful planning.
With numerous tasks to check off your to-do list, it’s never too early to start the moving process. Use sufficient time and be open-minded while walking through your home to determine what you want to move and what you wish to donate or discard.
Remember, the moving company will charge you based on the weight of your items, so eliminate unnecessary items.
6. Remain Calm
A cross-country move is likely to be frustrating. However, it’s important you remain calm and concentrate on the positive things. You also need to look forward to your new place and get used to the fact that moving is a process.
7. Purchase Insurance
Most moving firms provide some kind of insurance, purchase it. In some cases, items break or get lost, so insurance will ensure the company covers any damages or loss.
Final Thoughts
A cross-country move isn’t easy given that it involves several details and factors. If you’re not careful, you could end up stressed and overwhelmed. Fortunately, these invaluable tips will facilitate a successful move.
For more information on how to move across country, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave other suggestions.
