Moving across the country is a big task that requires careful planning. Without preparation, costs can rise, and stress can take over. Here’s a quick guide to make your move smoother:
- Start Early: Begin planning 8–12 weeks before your move.
- Set a Timeline: Break tasks into weeks, such as booking movers, decluttering, or packing.
- Declutter: Reduce what you’re moving to save time and money.
- Budget Wisely: Factor in costs like movers, packing supplies, and fuel. Add a 10–20% buffer for unexpected expenses.
- Choose Moving Method: Decide between DIY, professional movers, or a mix of both.
- Plan Utilities: Schedule disconnections and connections for your old and new homes.
- Pack Strategically: Use sturdy boxes, label them clearly, and pack essentials separately.
- Consider Kids and Pets: Prepare them for the move to reduce anxiety.
Key Tip: Booking movers and services early helps you secure better rates and avoid last-minute issues. Planning ahead ensures you can focus on settling into your new home instead of scrambling on moving day.
Step 1: Create Your Moving Timeline
Start planning your move 8–12 weeks in advance. This gives you plenty of time to budget, research moving companies, and organize everything without feeling rushed. By breaking this period into smaller milestones and weekly tasks, you can tackle your move step by step, making the process feel less overwhelming.
Mark Important Deadlines
Your timeline should include key milestones – the big deadlines that guide your entire plan. Begin by marking your moving date on a calendar, then work backward to set these critical benchmarks.
Here’s an example of how to structure your timeline if your move is scheduled for May 1, 2025:
- 8–12 weeks before moving (Feb. 1–March 1, 2025): This is the time to research and compare moving companies. Read reviews, verify licenses, and check insurance coverage. For cross-country moves, book your movers at least two months in advance.
- 6–8 weeks before moving: Finalize your moving budget and request estimates. Factor in all potential costs, including movers, travel, packing supplies, and storage. Schedule in-home or virtual surveys with moving companies to get precise pricing.
- 4–6 weeks before moving: Start looking into new utility providers for your future home. This is also a great time to declutter, focusing on items and spaces you rarely use.
- 3 weeks before moving: Contact your current utility providers to schedule disconnection for the day after you move out and reconnection at your new home for the day before you arrive.
- 1–2 weeks before moving: Gather moving supplies like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Update your address with banks, insurers, subscriptions, and other important organizations.
Make Weekly Task Lists
Breaking your timeline into weekly tasks makes the process more manageable. Aim for 3–5 specific tasks each week.
- Weeks 8–12: Focus on the big picture. Research moving companies, collect quotes, and start building your budget. Use a spreadsheet to track company names, quotes, and services offered.
- Weeks 6–8: Choose your moving company and book your movers. Begin decluttering, starting with spaces like basements, attics, or storage rooms. As professional organizer Maija Diethelm explains, "We always have way more stuff than we even imagine". Tackling less-used areas first makes the process feel less daunting.
- Weeks 4–6: Step up your decluttering efforts and organize important documents. Create a "moving folder" for birth certificates, passports, medical records, and financial paperwork. Research utility providers, internet services, and other local services in your new area.
- Weeks 2–3: Transfer utilities, update your address, and notify key organizations like banks and insurers. Continue gathering moving supplies and begin packing items you won’t need in the next few weeks.
- Week 1: Confirm all moving details, pack essentials, and finalize utility arrangements. Double-check that utilities will be connected at your new home and disconnected at your current one on the right dates.
Although decluttering can start months before your move, the main preparations fit neatly into this 8–12 week timeline. Each week builds on the last, keeping you organized and reducing stress as moving day gets closer.
Step 2: Sort and Reduce Your Belongings
Getting ahead of the game by sorting your belongings early can save you money and make unpacking much smoother. Aim to start this process about 6–8 weeks before your moving day. Tackle it one room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Group Items by Category
A simple way to organize your belongings is to divide them into four groups: keep, donate, sell, or discard. To make decisions easier, use the "6-month rule": if you haven’t used something in the past six months and don’t see yourself needing it soon, it might be time to part with it.
Before deciding to keep an item, ask yourself:
- Do I actually need this?
- Is it in good condition?
- Does it align with my new lifestyle?
For larger items, weigh the cost of moving them against the cost of replacing them later. If you’re donating items, ensure they’re clean and in working order. For sentimental pieces, consider taking photos to preserve the memory without holding onto the physical item. As Nicole Loiterstein from Neat Method wisely puts it:
"Your home is a living space, not a storage space."
Once you’ve sorted through everything, shift your focus to protecting the items that hold the most value.
List and Record Your Valuables
With your belongings narrowed down, take steps to secure your high-value items by creating a detailed inventory. This not only protects your investments but also makes filing insurance claims easier if needed.
Document your valuables with photos, descriptions, estimated values, and identifying details. For electronics, include the brand, model, and purchase date. For jewelry or collectibles worth over $1,000, a professional appraisal might be a good idea.
Label your boxes clearly so you can easily identify their contents. A box index can be a lifesaver – group items by room or purpose, like kitchen supplies in one box, bedroom linens in another, and office materials in yet another. For clothing, sorting by season, style, or color and packing them in designated boxes can make unpacking much simpler.
Gather Important Papers
Some documents are too important to risk losing in the moving truck. Keep essential papers – like birth certificates, passports, Social Security cards, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees – in a folder that stays with you during the move. Other vital documents, such as medical records, insurance policies, and financial statements, should also travel with you.
Additionally, keep your moving paperwork – like contracts, inventory lists, receipts, and contact details – handy for quick access. If you have kids, pets, or other family members, gather school records, veterinary records, and employment documents as well. To be extra prepared, make copies of these documents and store digital versions in cloud storage. That way, you’ll have a backup if anything gets misplaced.
Step 3: Plan Your Moving Budget
Taking the time to plan your moving budget can help you manage costs and prioritize the services that matter most. Breaking down expenses will not only help you identify potential savings but also prepare you for the financial side of your move.
Calculate Your Moving Costs
Cross-country moves can be expensive, but the costs vary depending on how you choose to move. For example, full-service moves average around $9,593, while partial-service options come in at approximately $6,988. If you’re looking to cut costs, there are several alternatives to consider.
- DIY Truck Rentals: These range from $1,600 to $5,200, with moving truck rentals specifically costing between $1,200 and $2,000. If you’re comfortable driving long distances, this option can save you a significant amount of money.
- Portable Storage Containers: Prices for these typically fall between $2,000 and $4,000.
- Freight Trailer Services: These cost between $1,500 and $3,000 for cross-country moves and are often 30–50% cheaper than full-service options.
- Hybrid Moves: By combining professional services with DIY efforts, hybrid moves can save you 20–30% compared to full-service moves.
To save even more, start planning at least eight weeks ahead. Early planning helps you lock in better rates and avoid paying extra for last-minute arrangements. Moving in the off-peak months (October through April) or choosing weekdays instead of weekends can also help reduce costs.
Include Extra Expenses
Moving costs go beyond just transportation. There are additional expenses you need to account for, and these can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.
- Packing Supplies: While these can cost several hundred dollars, you can save by sourcing free boxes from local businesses or online groups.
- Fuel Costs: Gas prices and the distance of your route will determine how much you’ll spend on fuel for your vehicle or rental truck.
- Temporary Lodging: If your move spans multiple days, you’ll need to budget for hotel stays, meals, and possibly storage fees if there’s a gap between moving out and moving in.
- Vehicle Transportation: If you’re shipping a car instead of driving it, this will be another expense to consider.
Set aside a 10–20% buffer in your budget for unexpected costs. This could cover things like last-minute packing needs, additional insurance, or emergency repairs. Having this cushion will help you avoid financial stress if surprises come up.
Review Two Twigs Moving Options
Two Twigs Moving offers a range of service packages to match different budgets and needs. Understanding what they provide can help you choose the right option for your move.
- Basic Moving: Includes loading, transportation, and unloading. This is ideal if you’re handling packing and unpacking yourself but need help with the heavy lifting and logistics.
- Full-Service Move: Covers everything from packing to unloading, making it a stress-free option for those who want minimal involvement in the moving process.
- Specialty Moving: Designed for delicate or unique items like pianos, pool tables, and fragile belongings. This service ensures these valuables are handled with care.
- Labor Only: Provides professional help with loading and unloading, which is perfect if you’re using a rental truck or portable container for transportation.
- Storage Solutions: Offers temporary storage for situations where your move-in and move-out dates don’t align, giving you flexibility during your cross-country move.
Each service is tailored to your specific needs, with pricing based on factors like distance and timing. Reach out to Two Twigs Moving early in your planning process to explore your options and get a detailed quote for your move. This will help you make informed decisions and stay on track with your budget.
Step 4: Pick Your Moving Method and Handle Details
Sorting out the logistics of your move early on can save you from last-minute chaos. From deciding how to move your belongings to managing utilities and vehicle transport, getting these details squared away ensures a smoother moving day.
Choose DIY or Professional Movers
Your choice between a DIY move or hiring professional movers depends on your budget, time, and physical ability.
DIY moves can cost between $500 and $1,700 for long-distance trips using rental trucks, though this doesn’t include fuel, deposits, or mileage fees. The benefits? You save money, have complete control over your schedule, and can make decisions on the fly. However, it requires a lot of effort, time, and comes with a higher risk of accidents or damage.
Professional movers, on the other hand, typically charge $2,000 to $5,000 for interstate or cross-country moves. While the cost is higher, you gain expertise, reliability, and insurance coverage, which can provide peace of mind. The trade-offs? Less scheduling flexibility and relinquishing some control over the process.
"Moving often comes about as a result of major life events. There are a lot of reasons why people move, and it’s not easy physically, mentally, or emotionally. You’ve got to have the right approach for you – what will work best for you."
– Tonia Tomlin, founder of Sorted Out
For a middle ground, consider a hybrid approach. For example, Two Twigs Moving offers a Labor Only service where you rent the truck or container, and professionals handle the heavy lifting and loading. This can reduce both physical strain and the risk of injury.
Always get multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing. Scott Michael, President and CEO of the American Moving & Storage Association, advises:
"Look for the red flags, such as no physical address or phone number online, or maybe if the price is suspiciously low. And don’t rely on over-the-phone estimates. Have the movers come to your home or do a virtual home survey if they offer that."
Once you’ve chosen your moving method, it’s time to plan for your vehicle.
Plan Vehicle Transportation
Moving your vehicle to a new location, especially for long distances, requires careful consideration. You have several options, each with its own costs and benefits.
Driving your car is the most economical choice but requires planning for fuel, lodging, and meals along the way. Keep in mind that this adds wear and tear to your vehicle.
Professional auto transport is another popular option. Costs range from $500 to $2,500 depending on the distance and type of carrier. You’ll need to decide between:
- Open transport, which is more affordable but exposes your car to weather and debris.
- Enclosed transport, which offers full protection – ideal for luxury or classic cars.
Transporting your car across the country typically takes 7–10 days. Booking well in advance is key, especially if you need expedited service. Don’t forget to complete a pre-pickup checklist for your vehicle.
Other options include hiring a driver, train transport, or towing your car, each with its own pros and cons. With your vehicle transport sorted, shift your focus to managing utilities.
Set Up and Cancel Utilities
Coordinating utilities is essential for a smooth transition. Start this process 3–4 weeks before your move to avoid any disruptions.
For your current home, arrange to disconnect utilities the day after you leave. For the new place, schedule connections 1–2 weeks before your arrival. Set up online accounts for bill payments, arrange for final meter readings, and settle any outstanding balances to close accounts properly. Don’t forget to return any equipment like cable boxes or modems to avoid extra charges.
For your new home, aim to have utilities activated the day before you move in. Make a list of services to set up, including:
- Electricity and gas – Often bundled by the same provider.
- Water and sewer – Usually managed by local municipalities.
- Internet and cable/satellite TV – Research providers for competitive rates.
- Trash and recycling collection – Typically arranged through local waste management.
- Security systems – Whether transferring an existing service or installing a new one.
Starting new services often requires deposits of $100 or more, though these may be waived based on your credit or payment history. Be aware of potential startup or activation fees, and factor these into your moving budget.
Research service providers in your new area ahead of time to secure the best deals.
"You don’t want to be moving out or moving in without lights or water!"
– U-Pack
Lastly, share utility provider contact details with your realtor, landlord, or the new homeowner to ensure a seamless handoff.
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Step 5: Pack Smart and Get Ready for Moving Day
With your moving plans in place, it’s time to focus on packing efficiently to ensure a smooth moving day. A little extra care during this step can mean the difference between a stressful day and a calm, organized move into your new home.
Pack Using Smart Methods
Packing well is about more than just fitting everything into boxes – it’s about protecting your belongings and making unpacking easier. Start by gathering sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, foam sheets, and packing peanuts to protect your items during the move.
For sensitive items like electronics, artwork, and glassware, use specialized containers when possible. If you still have the original boxes for electronics, use them – they’re designed for maximum protection. If not, wrap electronics in bubble wrap and fill any empty spaces with foam to prevent movement.
When packing, place heavier items at the bottom of boxes and lighter ones on top. Fragile items require extra attention: wrap each piece individually, fill empty spaces to prevent shifting, and label the box "FRAGILE" on all sides. For especially delicate items, double-boxing provides added protection.
When it comes to dishes and glassware, pack plates vertically in dish-specific boxes with dividers, wrapping each piece in packing paper or bubble wrap. For fine china and crystal, use the box-in-box method: place wrapped items in a smaller box, then put that box inside a larger one with padding around it.
For artwork and mirrors, follow the sandwich method: start with glassine paper, then add bubble wrap, corrugated cardboard, and moving blankets before placing everything in a custom art box or crate. Protect corners with cardboard and consider custom crating for sculptures or other valuable pieces.
Packing thoughtfully now will save you from headaches later.
Pack a First Night Box
The first night in a new home can be chaotic, so pack a "First Night" box with essentials to keep things simple. Label it clearly and keep it with you – not on the moving truck – so it’s always accessible.
Include items like toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes for each family member. Add practical items like phone chargers, a screwdriver, a box cutter, toilet paper, hand soap, and towels. Don’t forget comfort items like snacks, coffee or tea, paper plates and cups, and basic cleaning supplies.
For families, pack items that help children feel at home – favorite toys, stuffed animals, or books. These small touches can make the transition easier and less stressful.
Move with Kids or Pets
Moving with kids or pets adds another layer of planning, but with some preparation, it can go smoothly.
Start by preparing children for the move. Talk about it early and often, framing it as an exciting new adventure. Show them pictures of the new home to build positive feelings. Let them help pack their belongings – this involvement gives them a sense of control.
For pets, start acclimating them to the changes weeks in advance. Introduce packing supplies gradually so they’re less anxious.
"Pets (especially dogs and cats) are creatures of habit. The more your schedule changes, the higher their anxiety is likely to go." – Einstein Moving Company
Stick to regular routines for feeding, walks, and bedtime as much as possible. Check with your vet to ensure vaccinations are up to date and discuss ways to reduce stress. Update ID tags and microchip information with your new address and phone number.
On moving day, keep kids and pets safe by arranging for a babysitter or asking friends to help. For pets, consider boarding them or confining them to a quiet room away from the activity.
"During the moving process, doors will be left open, and people will be going in and out. Keep your pet secure so they have no opportunities to run away due to fear or confusion." – Einstein Moving Company
Pack an emergency pet bag with food, water bowls, and other essentials. For car travel, secure pets in carriers or crates in the backseat for safety. Before arriving at your new home, research local pet regulations and pet-proof the space by checking windows, doors, and screens for security.
Check Final Details with Two Twigs Moving
Before the big day, confirm all the critical details with Two Twigs Moving. This step ties everything together and ensures your move goes as planned.
Review your inventory list with them, noting any last-minute changes or items you’ve decided not to move. Confirm the delivery schedule and make sure someone will be available to receive your belongings at the destination. Verify the exact pickup and delivery addresses, including any special instructions for accessing the properties.
Double-check contact information for everyone involved. Make sure you have up-to-date phone numbers for your moving coordinator, the truck driver, and any local representatives. Provide your own updated contact details and an alternate number where you can be reached during the move.
Discuss payment arrangements to avoid surprises. Clarify when and how payment is expected, and confirm what forms of payment are accepted. If you’ve purchased additional insurance for high-value items, ensure those details are documented.
Finally, go over the moving day timeline. Know when the crew will arrive, how long loading is expected to take, and the estimated delivery window. Confirming these details ahead of time helps prevent confusion and sets the stage for a successful move.
Conclusion: Key Points for a Smooth Move
Successfully moving cross-country hinges on good planning, staying organized, and knowing when to rely on professional help. Each step – whether it’s creating a timeline, decluttering, or carefully managing your budget – lays the groundwork for a stress-free experience. A well-thought-out approach helps avoid last-minute chaos and keeps things on track.
By starting early and sticking to a solid plan, you can lock in your preferred moving dates, keep costs under control, and handle essential tasks like utility transfers and address changes with ease. Surveys show that households who hire professional movers often experience higher satisfaction compared to those who go the DIY route.
Two Twigs Moving offers a dependable team with background-checked professionals and round-the-clock availability. Their reputation for careful handling and clear communication makes them a trusted partner during this big life change, giving you one less thing to worry about.
This balance between personal preparation and professional support ensures the best results. While you focus on planning, organizing, and making decisions, experienced movers take care of the heavy lifting, logistics, and safe transportation of your belongings. This way, you can concentrate on settling into your new home without the added stress of wondering if everything will arrive in one piece.
Flexibility and communication are essential. Even with the best-laid plans, unexpected challenges can arise during a cross-country move. Staying in touch with your moving team, keeping critical documents handy, and maintaining realistic expectations will help you navigate any surprises along the way.
FAQs
What’s the best way to protect valuable items during a cross-country move?
To protect your belongings during a cross-country move, start by using durable packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy, reinforced boxes. These materials provide the cushioning needed for fragile or delicate items. Make sure to clearly label these boxes as "fragile" so they receive extra care during handling.
For items of high value, it’s a good idea to create an inventory list to keep track of them. You might also want to look into moving insurance for added peace of mind. Smaller valuables, such as jewelry or important documents, are best kept with you rather than packed in the moving truck.
When it comes to larger or more delicate belongings like furniture or artwork, disassemble pieces if possible and use custom crates or protective coverings to shield them. Keeping these items in a secure, designated area during the packing process can help ensure they are handled properly. These precautions can go a long way in minimizing the risk of damage or loss during your move.
What are the advantages of hiring professional movers compared to handling a cross-country move on your own?
Hiring professional movers for a cross-country move can take a huge weight off your shoulders – literally and figuratively. These experts handle the heavy lifting, packing, and transportation, which not only saves you from physical strain but also reduces the chances of your belongings getting damaged. Plus, with perks like insurance coverage and their know-how in managing long-distance logistics, the entire process becomes much smoother and less stressful.
That said, going the DIY route can be easier on your wallet and lets you have full control over every detail. However, it demands a lot more time, effort, and careful planning. Doing it all yourself also comes with a higher risk of accidents, injuries, or damage to your possessions – especially when moving across the country. Think about what matters most to you – whether it’s saving money, conserving time, or minimizing hassle – before deciding which approach works best for your move.
How do I transfer and set up utilities when moving to a new state?
Plan Your Utility Transfers in Advance
To make your move as hassle-free as possible, start organizing your utility transfers 2 to 4 weeks ahead of time. First, contact your current utility providers to schedule disconnection dates. Then, reach out to providers in your new location to arrange services like electricity, water, gas, and internet. Keep essential information handy, such as account numbers, identification, and any required paperwork.
A few days before your move, double-check both activation and disconnection dates to avoid any unexpected service interruptions. If your new home is part of an HOA, check if utilities like water or waste management are included in your fees – this could streamline the process. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother transition and reduce last-minute stress.
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