Moving across the country without a to-do list makes the process more arduous than it should. With some skills and help, however, you will find it pretty manageable. If you have never moved before, mostly long-distance, the entire process might seem like a monster ready to crush you, and this might be the case if you attempt to wing it. So, let us not try to wing it and create a cross country moving checklist.
Declutter Your House
This is one of the essential steps, regardless of the scope of your move. Relocating cross country cannot begin before you declutter your house. Decluttering will save you money, time, and effort trying to pack everything up. So, before you even begin looking for reliable cross country movers, first clean up. Even if you intend to move on your own, this is an important activity.
Begin with the storage areas and units in your house. Work your way around the property until you're done. This can be an emotional process for some, but don't let allow that to discourage you. Decluttering is vital, and don't rush it. Avoid holding on to items you no longer use or need. If possible, arrange for a yard sale or even donate. Selling things you do not need can help you finance some aspects of relocation, which we all know isn't cheap.
Create an Inventory
After you're done decluttering, it's time to create an inventory. Moving cross country isn't a small task, and you need to have everything in order. By keeping track of all the items you pack, you will have certainty and proof if anything goes missing during transit.
To make things easier, pack room by room and make the inventory along the way. Once you are done with a box, label it appropriately. This will also help a lot when it comes to unpacking as you won't have to dig through all the boxes at once.
Hire a Reputable Long Distance Mover
Moving across the country is not the same as moving down the street. There is a lot to handle and not sufficient time or workforce for the task. That's why you should consider hiring a reliable moving company, especially one with experience in cross country moves. They will have your back in the most important aspects of the move. Keep in mind that the company you hire can make or break the entire process, and so you'll want to take your time on the hiring process. It is useful to have a handy long distance relocation guide to make your move stress free.
Begin by looking for recommendations from people you know and have moved across the country. It is always safer to work with a mover someone close to you has used before. If no one close to you has moved recently, take the search online and look at local business reviews. Reputable movers will have a lot of positive reviews and comments from their past clients. Again, take your time as you don't want to end up across the country without your belongings. Nowadays, there are scammers in every industry, looking to take advantage of unaware clients. Ensure you take the steps necessary to avoid them, including licensing, insurance, BBB rating, and online reviews.
Garner Supplies on Time
Once you are done decluttering, the next step is to buy the right supplies for the long journey ahead. Moving across the country means there are a few basics you need to address in regards to supplies. This includes getting the following:
Packing tape, air-filled wrap, and paper.
Sturdy boxes
Moving dolly and the right equipment
Depending on your house and needs, you might need more supplies. If you held a yard sale, you could use this money to finance some of these supplies. Saving money on relocation supplies is a smart move. If you get lucky, you might come across a moving company that provides the supplies as well. However, you can expect the final bill to be higher than if you bought or leased them. Ensure everything is packed tight and secure. This is one of those tasks that you should leave for the professionals. After all, you don't want your items to get damaged during transit.
Prepare an Emergency Bag For Long-Distance Moving
A first aid kit is required to get you through the trip and the first several nights. It would be unwise and ignorant to go on a cross country trip without an emergency bag. What to include depends on your needs, but some items are a must as you won't be unpacking on the first day. Cross country relocation is daunting for everyone, and you won't even notice how exhausted you are until you are done moving. Before you begin unpacking, take your time and ensure you are well-rested. After all, you have all the time in the world.
An emergency bag usually includes basic hygiene equipment for everyone, along with some pajamas a change of clothes. Paperwork required for the move ideally needs a spot in the bag. Don't forget to include some food or snacks for the long journey ahead. The rest is up to you. If you are moving as a family, everyone can have their bag, use one big suitcase. However, don't miss out on packing the essential items as you're saving up on space.
Relocating can have a significant impact on your life. The important thing is to ensure you prepare the best you can for the long journey. Do everything in your power to have smooth sailing. The rest is up to the professional movers you hire and perhaps some luck.