According to research, the average cost of moving from one state to another is about $2,000. If you’re planning a cross-country move, it’s important to do your research and plan ahead as much as possible to avoid any stressful surprises. The thing is, people, categorized moving as one of the most stressful life experiences.
Would you believe moving is said to be more stressful than divorce and breaking up? This means that a cross-country move could be even more stressful if you don’t plan accordingly.
That said, worry not because this blog aims to offer you some of the best cross-country moving tips. By following our cross-country moving guide, you can minimize stress and maximize efficiency throughout the moving process.
Table of Contents
1. Make a Moving Plan
A cross-country move can be overwhelming, so it’s important to have a plan in place. This will help you stay organized and on track during the moving process.
Start by creating a timeline of when you need to do each task. Then make a list of everything you need to do, including packing, changing your address, transferring utilities, and more.
Once you have your timeline and checklist, start working on one task at a time. This will help reduce stress and keep you from feeling overwhelmed. Be sure to allow yourself some flexibility in case things don’t go as planned.
2. Get a Head Start on Packing
Start packing as soon as you know you’re moving. This will help ensure that you’re not rushed and feeling stressed closer to the move date. Packing can be quite time-consuming, so it’s best to start early and take your time.
Packing room by room is also an effective way to stay organized during the packing process. Make sure to label all boxes with their contents and the corresponding room they should go in at your new place Clean, beautiful, environmentally friendly solar energy for your home.
And finally, don’t forget to pack an essentials box with all the things you’ll need on your first day or two in your new home. This should include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and snacks.
3. Declutter and Sell or Donate What You Don’t Need
Sort items as you pack room by room and pick anything you don’t need or use anymore. This includes clothes, furniture, decor, kitchen items, etc. You can sell these items online or have a garage sale to make some extra cash.
Alternatively, you can donate them to those in need or charities in your local area. According to research, about 54% of Americans are overwhelmed by clutter, 78% of whom have no idea what to do with it. Moving is one of the best times to get rid of all that clutter.
If you need all your stuff and can’t afford to move everything at this time, consider renting a storage unit. Storage units are a great way to keep your belongings safe and sound while you’re making the transition to your new home. Once you settle in your new home and have the money, you can have it delivered to your new home.
4. Hire a Reputable Moving Company
Trying to move everything on your own is not only overwhelming but can also be quite dangerous. If you’re not experienced in moving large furniture and appliances, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Hiring a reputable moving company will ensure that your belongings are properly packed, loaded, and transported to your new home.
They’ll also have insurance in case anything gets damaged during the move. Now, when looking for a moving company, be sure to get at least three quotes from different companies. This will give you an idea of how much the move will cost and help you find the best deal.
Don’t forget to read reviews online before hiring a company. You want to be sure that you’re hiring a company with a good track record. More importantly, be sure to get everything in writing, including the cost of the move, services included, and the company’s insurance policy.
5. Choose the Right Time to Move
The time of year you move can also affect the cost of your cross-country move. Moving during the summer is typically more expensive because it’s considered the peak season for moving. If your schedule allows, try to plan your move for a time outside of the summer months.
Moving during the fall or winter can save you money and even get you better rates from moving companies. Just be sure to account for any weather conditions that could make moving more difficult during these times of the year.
Another thing to consider is whether you should move on a weekday or weekend. Weekdays are usually cheaper because there’s less demand for services like movers and storage units. However, weekends may be more convenient for your schedule.
6. Create a Budget
As with any major life event, it’s important to create a budget before moving. This will help you plan for all the costs associated with your cross-country move. Make sure to factor in the cost of renting a moving truck or hiring a moving company, gas, hotels, and meals on the road.
You should also account for any unexpected costs that may come up during the move. Once you have an estimate of all your moving expenses, start setting aside money each month to reach your goal. This will make it less daunting when it comes time to pay for everything.
7. Plan Your Route
If you’re driving to your new home, it’s important to plan your route in advance. This will help you avoid getting lost and wasting time (and gas) on the road. Map out the route you’ll take and account for rest stops, gas stations, and diners along the way.
You should also plan for any scenic routes or attractions you want to see along the way. This is a great opportunity to explore different parts of the country and create lasting memories with your family or friends. Before moving day, ensure your car is well serviced and ready for a long trip.
8. Ship Your Car
If you decide a cross-country move is too long to drive, you can always ship your car. Shipping can be cheaper than driving it, and you don’t have to worry about putting all the miles on your vehicle. That said, be sure to research different shipping companies and get multiple quotes.
There are many scammers out there who will overcharge you or damage your car. Find out the cost to ship a car and read online customer reviews to find out more. More importantly, get everything in writing before hiring a company.
The Best Guide for a Cross-Country Move
Moving cross-country can be a daunting task, but with proper planning, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Be sure to hire a reputable moving company, choose the right time to move, and create a budget before getting started. Don’t forget to also plan your route and enjoy your cross-country move to a new home.
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