Moving across the country is a big deal and can feel overwhelming. But with good planning, it can go smoothly. A detailed checklist will keep you organized and make sure you don’t forget anything important. Here’s your ultimate moving across country checklist to help you with every step of the way.
Moving across the country is more than just packing boxes and renting a truck. From planning and packing to settling into your new home, every step matters. This checklist will keep you on track and help you move without a hitch. Follow these moving across country checklist steps to make your move is as easy as possible.
Two Months Before the Move
Two months before your move is the best time to start working on your moving tasks. This time is important for setting up everything you need for a smooth move. By starting early, you can avoid last-minute stress and make sure everything is ready.
Here’s what you should focus on in the next two months:
- Find and Hire a Moving Company: Look up moving companies with good reviews and strong reputations. We recommended checking their ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Get quotes from at least three companies to compare their prices and services. Check if they are licensed and insured to make sure they are legit.
- Create a Moving Budget: Write down all expected costs, like the moving company, packing supplies, travel expenses, and any extra fees. This will help you manage your money and avoid surprise costs.
- Start Sorting and Decluttering: Go through your things and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. This will reduce the number of items you need to move and can even lower your moving costs.
- Organize Important Documents: Keep all important documents related to your move, like contracts with the moving company, inventory lists, and contact information, in one place. This will make it easy to find them when you need them.
One Month Before the Move
With one month left before your move, it’s time to focus on tasks that will get you ready for the big day. Your plans should start to come together, and your preparations should begin to take shape.
Here’s what you should do in the final month:
- Start Packing Non-Essential Items: Pack items you don’t use every day, like seasonal clothes, books, and decorations. Label each box clearly to make unpacking easier.
- Confirm Moving Date: Confirm your moving date with the company and make any needed arrangements, like reserving parking or setting up an elevator if you live in an apartment.
- Update Homeowners Insurance: Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure it covers your new home and update it if needed. This will protect your belongings during the move.
- Plan for Items You’ll Transport Yourself: Decide which items you’ll move yourself, such as valuable or sentimental items. Plan how you’ll safely transport these items to avoid damage.
- Arrange Utility Services: Schedule appointments to disconnect utilities at your old home and connect them at your new home. This includes electricity, water, gas, and internet.
- Plan for Pets: If you have pets, make travel arrangements to ensure their comfort and safety. This might include booking pet-friendly accommodations or arranging transport.
- File Change of Address: Update your address with the postal service and notify banks, subscription services, and other relevant organizations.
One Week Before the Move
As moving day gets closer, the final week is about tying up loose ends and making sure everything is set. Focus on essential tasks to ensure a smooth move.
Here’s what to do in the last week:
- Pack Essential Items: Pack a separate box with items you’ll need right away, like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies.
- Confirm Details with the Moving Company: Double-check the moving date, time, and details with the company. Make sure they have your correct contact information and address.
- Prepare a Moving Day Essentials Box: Pack a box with items you’ll need on moving day, such as snacks, cleaning supplies, and a first-aid kit. This will help you stay organized and comfortable.
- Fill Prescriptions: Make sure any needed medications are filled and packed securely. This will prevent interruptions in your medication routine.
- Confirm Travel Plans: Double-check travel arrangements for family members and pets to make sure everything is in order. Make any needed adjustments for their comfort.
- Plan Meals to Use Up Food: Plan meals with perishable food items to reduce waste. This will help you use up what you have and decrease the amount of food to move.
- Empty and Defrost Fridge and Freezer: Empty and defrost your fridge and freezer 48 hours before the move. This will keep them clean and help avoid any mess or bad smells.
What Next?
With this moving across country checklist, you’re on your way to a successful move. By following these steps and staying organized, your move to your new home should go smoothly. For more tips, check out our posts on the Moving Day Checklist and the After Moving Checklist. These guides will give you more help and advice for every stage of your moving journey.
