By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.
Benjamin Franklin’s words may be centuries old, but they have never been more relevant than when you’re preparing for a move.
Now, just think: About 31 million Americans move each year, and 80 percent of these moves happen between April and September.
With the pull of a new job, a fledgling family, or even just seeking out different environments, most people move at least several times in their lives.
Yet, moving is no small task. A new survey found that 27% of Americans think moving is more stressful than planning a wedding, and 45% say it is even worse than going through a breakup.
Yet, moving is no small task. A recent survey revealed that 27% of Americans find moving more stressful than planning a wedding, and 45% rank it higher than a breakup.
Throw in the challenges of getting all your stuff organized, booking a moving company (ideally at least two weeks ahead), and if your move is a cross country moving – it’s no wonder this can be such an exhausting process!
So, the deal is that moving does not need to be such a dreaded thing.
However, with the right checklist and preparation, you can bring order to the madness and start your new chapter on a good note.
It doesn’t matter if you are heading to your dream home in Los Angeles or hiring the best cross country movers to make the journey easier; this guide will be your ultimate roadmap.
Set a Moving Date: Choose a date that gives you enough time to prepare.
Remember that summer is the peak moving season, so availability and prices may be impacted.
Create a Budget: Moving expenses can add up quickly.
The average cost of a local move ranges from $560 to $1,000, while a long-distance move can cost around $5,500.
Research Moving Companies:
If you are leaning toward hiring professionals (especially if your move is a long-distance one like a cross country Los Angeles move), then start looking early.
Look for the best cross-country movers with positive feedback and proper licensing.
Visit every room and decide what you’re going to keep, donate, sell or throw away. The typical American discards 36% of all their items when moving.
Outline everything that you are moving. It will assist you in locating your belongings and is useful for insurance.
This includes packing boxes, tape, bubble wrap and markers.
Such as cross country moving, there are some moving companies that provide packing services that will serve both your time and safeguard things during transportation.
Go for custom crating or specialty packing services for items that are fragile, ornate, or valuable. The best cross country moving company will provide you with these choices.
Packing is that part of moving that most people dread, but it’s also where the magic of organization happens.
Start Early and Go Room by Room
Begin at least a month ahead and focus on one room at a time. Pack lesser-used spaces first to avoid daily disruptions and reduce stress.
Pack an Essentials Box
Set aside a box with must-haves like toiletries, clothes, chargers, snacks, and key documents.
It’ll save you from rummaging through boxes on your first day.
Use Quality Packing Materials
Go for sturdy boxes, tape, and bubble wrap to avoid damaged items. For long hauls like cross country moving, quality materials are a must.
Label Boxes Clearly
Write the box contents and destination room on the outside. Color coding can make unpacking even faster and more organized.
Protect Fragile Items
For valuables and breakables, use extra padding or specialty boxes.
The best cross country movers offer custom crating or insurance for peace of mind.
Imagine moving into your new home only to find there’s no electricity or internet.
Avoid this nightmare by scheduling your utility transfers ahead of time.
Contact your current providers to arrange service cancellations on your move-out date and set up new accounts at your future address.
Include electricity, gas, water, internet, and waste removal services on your checklist.
Some providers may require a few weeks’ notice, so plan accordingly.
This step gives you a smooth move so you can settle into your new space without unnecessary delays.
If you are on the fence about whether to hire professionals or go DIY, let’s say this: movers can be a lifesaver, especially for long-distance or cross country moving.
But finding the right team is key. Here are some tips to keep in mind when hiring movers:
Research and Compare
Do not just say yes to the first company you meet. Compare at least three movers. Get quotes from at least three movers and compare their reviews, services, and pricing.
Now, for a cross country Los Angeles move, you want to find people who are long-distance specialists.
Verify Their Credentials
Always check the movers are licensed and insured.
Verify their USDOT number (a MUST for interstate moves) here. You can also look them up at the FMCSA site.
The best cross country moving company will have nothing to hide.
Ask About Services
Different movers are offering packages that are not the same.
Some are specifically for moving, while others even provide full-service relocating, which includes packing, unpacking and storage solutions.
Select a service level based on your budget and requirements.
Get a Written Estimate
Always request an in-home or virtual estimate, as this is one way to keep the company accountable for providing a cost-effective service.
This secures you against hidden costs and allows you to know the actual cost beforehand.
Read the Reviews
Analyze online feedback and ratings.
Look for consistent positive feedback, especially from people who’ve completed similar moves, like cross country moving journeys.
If they have a good reputation, you will probably be able to know that they are the best cross country movers around.
Update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and any subscription services.
You can schedule disconnection at your current home and connection at your new residence for electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
Supervise the Process: Be on-site to supervise your things getting loaded. Make sure all items are treated gently.
Final Walkthrough: Before you leave your old place, do a final walk to ensure nothing has been forgotten.
Start with the essentials box, then move on to setting up bedrooms and the kitchen.
Make yourself aware of the local areas such as shops, doctors, schools etc.
It’s best to consume or donate perishable food items before your move, as they can spoil during transit. Plan meals to use up what’s in your fridge and pantry, and donate unopened, non-perishable items to local food banks.
Transporting plants can be tricky, especially for long distances. Place them in sturdy boxes with padding to prevent movement. Make sure they have adequate ventilation and avoid extreme temperatures. Check state regulations if moving across state lines, as some have restrictions on transporting plants.
Arrange for utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) to be connected at your new home at least a week before your move-in date. This ensures you have essential services upon arrival. Similarly, schedule disconnection at your current residence for the day after you move out to avoid service gaps.
Moving can be stressful for pets. Keep them in a quiet, secure area during packing and moving. On a moving day, transport them in a safe carrier. Upon arrival, set up a familiar space with their belongings to help them adjust. Update their ID tags and microchip information with your new address.
Keep essential documents like identification, financial records, medical records, moving contracts, and any items needed for immediate access in a separate, easily accessible folder or box.
Choose Cross Country Moving for your next move because of our expertise, comprehensive services, reliable team, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
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