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Cross Country Moving Checklist

By National Van Lines
01/15/2018

When it comes to moving cross country, you will want to ensure that you have absolutely everything covered. We’ve created this handy checklist for you so that you have everything you need to remember in one place. Staying organized is the most important thing you can do to relieve stress!

12 Weeks Before You Move

  • Research your cross country movers. This will give you plenty of time to price shop, make plans, decide if you’ll pack or have a professional move you, etc. Also, the further out you schedule it, the better price and time slot you’ll secure – especially for any specialty moving items.
  • Fly advance will also result in price savings. The longer you wait to book flights, the higher the price. If driving, you’ll want to make sure your tires are in good condition, as well as any other tune-ups your car may need. It’s a good idea to get an oil change before your long trip.
  • Set up your change of address. You can do this in a matter of minutes through USPS.com. You can do this up to three months in advance, so there’s no sense in waiting until the last minute. Keep in mind that depending on your transportation across the country, it may be a good idea to put your mail on hold while you travel and have it forwarded when you get there.

8 Weeks Before You Move

  • Ensure your cross country movers have been secured, we recommend having this settled 6-8 weeks before your move.
  • Consider having a garage sale or selling some of your unused items. It may seem like it takes some time, but it will increase the organization efforts of your move and save time and clutter once you’ve moved in!
  • Set aside time for final appointments, meetings, and gatherings. When you tell your friends and family you’re moving across the country, you’ll soon become the most popular person in town. Set strict guidelines for yourself so that you make time for goodbyes as well as packing. And don’t forget to schedule or cancel that dentist and eye doctor appointment.
  • Get utilities in order. Call your current electric, gas, Internet and TV providers to let them know the date you’ll be vacating. At the same time, call the utility providers in your new location so that everything is up and running when you arrive.
  • Purchase moving supplies. Some national moving companies will provide shipping supplies and even special containers. Label and pack your items starting with the least-used possessions in your house.
  • Take pictures and create an inventory list of any extremely valuable or fragile personal items, and talk with your insurance and moving companies to find what type of protection they offer.

4 Weeks Before You Move

  • Organize your most important documents such as medical records, automobile and home documents, bank and insurance records, passports, and any forms of identification. Make sure they are stored in one place that is easy to access before, during, and after the move.
  • Deep clean your home or apartment before moving to make sure it is ready for the next family.
  • Create a list of services, subscriptions, and companies that have your address and schedule a change of address. Keep this list with you after the move to double check when you are moved into your new place.
  • If you have chosen to drive instead of fly, make sure your insurance and vehicle are ready for the trip.

Moving Week

  • Tie up loose ends. File and transfer any prescriptions for family members and pets. Cancel any local memberships. Call insurance companies, credit cards, banks and other institutions to update them with your new address. Arrange to have your locks changed on your new home the day you arrive or days before if it’s convenient.
  • Create your first night bag – a bag which will contain everything you need for your first night in your new home. It should contain clothes, snacks, medicine, toiletries, and anything you would need for a restful first night without unpacking.
  • Call your new utility company for your new home to make sure electricity, water, and Internet access will be ready upon arrival.

Moving Day

  • Make sure your floors and carpets are protected as furniture and appliances are moved from your home.
  • Make sure any remaining appliances are ready for a new owner. This means refrigerators should be disconnected and defrosted
  • Tip your movers on moving day and provide refreshments such as water, lemonade, or tea. You may not have the same movers at your current and new home, so ask the team lead to make sure you tip the appropriate movers.
  • Take emergency first aid and medical supplies such as band-aids, ibuprofen, and additional water. Pack extra toys for any children, and make sure your pets are ready for the trip.
  • Finally, direct your movers upon arrival and settle in for a comfy first night in your new home!

Trust the Professionals at National Van Lines

Over the years, we have established strong and lasting relationships with some clients. These clients range from residential movers to corporate movers. Not only do we offer a high-quality cross country moving service, but we also provide cost-effective and climate-controlled storage units.

Contact Us About Cross Country Moving

To speak to us about your cross-country move, or to find out more information on the services that we offer, please do not hesitate to call us at 877-590-2810 or contact us online.

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