Getting Ready to Move Across the Country? This List Will Help You

Getting ready to move across the country? This timeline and checklist will cover everything you need to do to prepare for a big move….

Whether you’re relocating for a new job, to be closer to family, or for a fresh start, moving can be both exciting and overwhelming. But don’t worry, with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make the process of moving cross country as smooth and stress-free as possible.

We’ll give you a timeline of what to do in the weeks and days leading up to your move, as well as some tips and advice to save you time and money. So grab a notebook, and let’s get started on making your move a success!

Moving across the country can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a smooth and stress-free process. Here is a timeline and tips to help you prepare for your big move:

Plan Your Move Across the Country Checklist

Table of Contents

8-12 Weeks Before Your Move:

Create a moving budget and research moving companies to compare prices and services.
Begin decluttering and downsizing your belongings to save on moving costs.
Notify important parties of your upcoming move, such as your employer, bank, and utility companies.
Start researching and gathering information about your new city and neighborhood, including schools, hospitals, and other important services.
Research and book any necessary travel arrangements, such as flights or hotel stays.

4-6 Weeks Before Your Move:

Confirm your moving date and schedule with your chosen moving company.
Notify the post office of your change of address.
Begin packing and label your boxes with the contents and the room they belong in.
Arrange for any necessary disconnections or cancellations of services, such as cable or internet.
Make arrangements for any pets or plants that will be traveling with you.

2-4 Weeks Before Your Move:

Confirm final details with your moving company.
Notify friends and family of your new address and contact information.
Dispose of any items that you will not be taking with you, such as old appliances or furniture.
Begin to prepare your home for the move, such as disconnecting appliances and emptying out drawers and closets.
Make sure you have all necessary documents in order, such as ID and medical records.

1 Week Before Your Move:

Pack a moving day essentials box with items you will need immediately after you move, such as toiletries and a change of clothes.
Confirm all travel arrangements and accommodations.
Take final readings of your utility meters and arrange for final payments.
Check that all items are packed and ready to go.
Review your moving inventory to ensure nothing is left behind.

Moving Day:

Take one final walk through your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
Double-check that all items are loaded onto the moving truck.
Make sure to keep all important documents, such as ID and medical records, with you during travel.
Begin your journey to your new home.

person wearing white socks on brown cardboard box

Tips and Advice:

Plan ahead and start early. The more time you have to prepare, the less stress you will have.
Research and compare moving companies to find the best deal.
Declutter and downsize your belongings to save on moving costs.
Notify important parties of your move, such as your employer, bank, and utility companies.
Pack a moving day essentials box with items you will need immediately after you move.
Review your moving inventory to ensure nothing is left behind.

By following this timeline and tips, you can ensure that your move across the country is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Good luck with your new adventure!

Things to do to prepare: –

8-12 Weeks Before Your Move:

Create a moving budget
Research moving companies
Begin decluttering and downsizing your belongings
Notify important parties of your upcoming move
Start researching and gathering information about your new city and neighborhood
Research and book any necessary travel arrangements

4-6 Weeks Before Your Move: –
Confirm your moving date and schedule with your chosen moving company
Notify the post office of your change of address
Begin packing and label
Arrange for any necessary disconnections or cancellations of services
Make arrangements for any pets or plants that will be traveling with you -2-4 Weeks Before Your Move:
Confirm final details with your moving company
Notify friends and family of your new address and contact information
Dispose of any items that you will not be taking with you
Begin to prepare your home for the move
Make sure you have all necessary documents in order -1 Week Before Your Move:
Pack a moving day essentials box
Confirm all travel arrangements and accommodations
Take final readings of your utility meters and arrange for final payments
Check that all items are packed and ready to go -Moving Day:
Take one final walk through your old home
Double-check that all items are loaded onto the moving truck
Keep all important documents with you during travel
Begin your journey to your new home

After you move in:
- Unpack your essentials first
- Set up your bed
- Set up your kitchen
- Set up your bathroom
- Change your address
- Register to vote
- Register your children in new schools
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Inform your insurance company of your move
- Update your bank and credit card information
- Get to know your new neighborhood
- Get involved in local activities and organizations to meet new people
- Celebrate your move and make it your home.

By following this timeline and tips, you will be able to organize and plan your move effectively. It will help you to save time and money, as well as ensure that your move goes as smoothly as possible. Remember to take time to enjoy the process and embrace your new home once you arrive.