Planning a Cross-Country Move? 12 Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition

In 2023 nearly 32.4 million Americans moved homes in 2023. Factors contributing to this have most commonly been rising cost of living, rising real estate market prices or simply moving to a new state to start a new life. The combinations are endless, but one thing we all know for sure with all the 32.4 million moves, no matter if these are long-distance relocations or just moving to another city within your state, is the moving stress.

California leads the way in out-of-state moves! How do we know? At Meathead Movers, we’ve helped over 2000 families transition to new homes beyond California.

Starting fresh in a new state is exciting, but it can be a bit tricky. We’ve got some handy tips to make your move smoother—trust us, it often doesn’t go as planned!

Here is our list of 12 essential tips for a smooth transition:

1. Consider Finances Very Well

Considering your finances is crucial when planning a long-distance move. Your cost of living is likely to change significantly, impacting expenses like groceries, rent, gas, and healthcare. For example moving from the midwest to big cities like San Diego can result in increases that jump over the 120% fence.

This kind of financial shift can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. To help with this, use tools like Numbeo’s Cost of Living Comparison calculator to assess how expenses will differ in your new location. Additionally, take a close look at your credit score, as it plays a vital role in renting or buying a home.

Tip: Research your new area’s cost of living and check your credit score early to avoid surprises and make informed financial decisions!

2. Research Housing

The second most important aspect of your long-distance relocation must be housing. Take your time to research housing options. Keep in mind that based on your new career path and the state you decide to move to, the housing will change significantly.

Take for example all metro cities in the U.S. Housing is usually shared among a group of people with similar interests during the 20’s. For families relocating, the complexity of finding a new home can depend on a lot of factors like location, price, availability, and proximity to major schools and highways. You can find more about how to find the right home for you online.

Tip: Do your research thoroughly and pick your new home based on your financial situation that suits you best.

3. Ask Your Network For Real World Advice

When planning a long-distance move, don’t underestimate the value of seeking real-world advice from your network. Friends, family, and colleagues can provide insights based on their own experiences, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions.

They might recommend trustworthy moving companies, share tips on settling into a new community, or even offer suggestions on where to find the best local services. This human touch can bring reassurance and clarity during a time that can feel overwhelming.

Tip: Reach out to your network for their insights; their experiences can guide you and make your move smoother and more enjoyable!

4. Pick A Side: DIY Move vs Professional Moving Company

When planning a long-distance move, one key consideration is whether to go the DIY route or hire a professional moving company. A DIY move can be budget-friendly, allowing you to save money and have complete control over the packing and timeline.

However, enlisting a professional moving company can bring valuable expertise and efficiency, ensuring that your belongings are handled with care and reducing your overall stress.

Tip: Decide on a moving budget early on. Asking for last-minute professional movers will cost you a fortune. Having this cleared out of the way will make the whole process a lot more smoother. You can even decide to have a hybrid approach with a moving company.

5. Start Packing Early & Gradually

Starting to pack early and gradually is one of the best moving cross-country tips for a smooth transition. By beginning weeks or even months in advance, you can avoid the last-minute rush and the stress that comes with it.

Tackle one room or area at a time, packing non-essential items first, like seasonal clothing or decor. This approach not only helps you stay organized but also gives you time to sort through your belongings, allowing you to declutter as you go. Plus, packing gradually makes it easier to manage logistics and ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed as the moving date approaches.

Tip: Set a packing schedule and start early to make your move less stressful and more organized!

6. Packing Tips For Moving Cross Country

• Use Quality Packing Materials: Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong tape to protect your belongings. You don’t want to find your favorite mug shattered because you skimped on packing supplies.
• Label Boxes Clearly: Write the contents and destination room on each box, and consider using colored labels for quick identification. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not frantically searching through every box to find the coffee maker on your first morning.
• Pack an Essentials Box: Keep important items you’ll need right away, like toiletries, a change of clothes, and crucial documents, in a separate box. Think of it as your survival kit for the first night—no one wants to be digging through boxes for toothpaste at 2 a.m.
• Pack Fragile Items with Care: Use bubble wrap and cushioning to protect breakables. Imagine arriving at your new home only to discover your grandmother’s vase shattered because you thought a few paper towels would suffice. Treat those items with the care they deserve!
• Label Boxes with Fragile Items: Mark these boxes so they’re handled with care. Picture the horror of seeing your fragile box at the bottom of a stack of heavy boxes. A simple “FRAGILE” label can save you a lot of stress when unloading.
• You Can Always Have Someone Do It For You: If you have no time to pack, organize and make use of best practices with packing, you can hire a moving company to handle packing.

Things To Avoid When Packing

• Don’t Leave Empty Spaces in Boxes: Fill gaps with packing paper to prevent items from shifting during transit. Think of it like Tetris—if you leave gaps, things can move around and break. Nobody wants to find their plates in pieces!
• Don’t Forget to Pack Important Documents Separately: Keep vital documents like passports and birth certificates with you, not in the moving truck. Imagine needing your passport for an ID check and it’s buried in one of a hundred boxes. Avoid the stress by keeping these documents close.
• Don’t Procrastinate: Waiting until the last minute to start packing is a big mistake. Procrastination leads to rushed and disorganized packing, which can damage your belongings and raise your stress levels.
• Don’t Overpack Boxes: It might be tempting to cram as much as possible into each box, but this leads to heavy, unmanageable boxes that are prone to breaking. Overpacked boxes are also difficult to carry and can cause injury.
• Don’t Use Low-Quality Packing Materials: Using flimsy packing supplies can lead to damaged items. Thin boxes and inadequate padding won’t protect your belongings during the move. Invest in quality materials for peace of mind!

7. Declutter, Donate, Give Away

Decluttering before a cross-country move is essential for a smoother transition and a fresh start in your new home. Begin by sorting through your belongings room by room, and ask yourself which items you truly need or cherish.

This process helps you identify things that may no longer serve a purpose in your new life. Not only does decluttering lighten your load, but it also saves time and money on packing and moving expenses. Consider donating gently used items to local charities or giving them away to friends and family who might appreciate them. You can also organize a garage sale and say the last goodbyes to neighbors. 

Tip: Set aside a dedicated time each week to tackle a specific area, making decluttering manageable and less overwhelming!

8. Long Distance Move Checklist Is Your Best Friend

A long-distance move can be daunting, but a checklist can make all the difference. It helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t forget important tasks, like notifying utilities or updating your address.

With everything laid out, you can tackle each item step by step, reducing stress and making the process feel more manageable. Plus, checking off completed tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated along the way.

Tip: Create your checklist early and update it regularly to stay on track and make your move smoother! You can use our long-distance moving checklist as a good template.

9. Consider Using Storage Service

Moving cross country often means a significant lifestyle change, especially when transitioning to a new state. For instance, if you’re relocating to New York City for a new job, you might have to adjust to city living, but that doesn’t mean you want to part with your favorite off-road mud bike back home in Vermont. This is where a storage service comes into play.

Having a storage unit allows you to keep your cherished items safe while you settle into your new environment. It provides the flexibility to move at your own pace, making it easier to manage logistics without feeling rushed. Plus, if your new home isn’t ready right away, storage offers a perfect solution for holding onto those things you love without cluttering your new space.

Tip: Explore local storage facilities to find a suitable option that meets your needs, and consider climate-controlled units for sensitive items!

10. Update Address, Cancel Memberships, Subscriptions

When moving cross country, don’t forget to update your address with banks, credit cards, and important accounts. Cancel any local memberships and subscriptions that won’t apply in your new location. This will save you time and money while ensuring you don’t miss any important communications.

Tip: Make a checklist of all accounts and services to update or cancel for a smoother transition!

11. Moving Cross County With Pets

1. Prepare Your Pet in Advance

Keep their routine as normal as possible in the weeks leading up to the move. Get them comfortable with their carrier or crate to reduce stress during travel.

2. Plan for Travel

Bring along their favorite toys, blankets, or beds to make the journey more comfortable. If driving, plan frequent breaks to let your pet stretch and relieve themselves. Depending on the pet you might want to choose different travel routes. Cats for example don’t like long-distance car trips and you would be better off flying to your new state. Dogs on the other hand love it too much. Make sure to consider all the factors ahead of time to ensure your pets won’t panic from the move.

3. Create a Pet Essentials Box

Pack a box with food, water, bowls, medications, and a leash. Keep this handy during the move for easy access.

4. Explore Your New Area

Once you arrive, take time to explore local parks or pet-friendly areas to help your pet acclimate to the new environment.

5. Monitor Behavior

Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior during and after the move. If they seem anxious or stressed, consult your vet for advice.

Tip: With careful planning and patience, you can make the move smoother for both you and your furry friend!

12. Best Time To Move Is Winter

While many people avoid moving during the winter months, it can actually be one of the best times to relocate. With fewer people moving, you’ll find lower rates for moving companies and potentially better availability. Plus, if you’re moving to a new city or state, you can get a feel for the area in its quietest season.

Winter also allows you to take advantage of off-peak pricing for utility services and rentals. Just be sure to prepare for the cold weather by dressing appropriately and ensuring your belongings are properly protected from the elements.

Tip: Consider a winter move for cost savings and a more relaxed experience, but be ready for the challenges of cold weather!

FAQ: Best Way To Move Cross Country

Moving cross country? Exciting times ahead! Here are some questions you didn’t know you needed answers to. You’re welcome.

Q: When should I start planning my long-distance move?

Yesterday would’ve been ideal! But seriously, aim to start 8 to 12 weeks in advance for a smoother process.

Q: How do I calculate the expenses for my long-distance move?

Consider the distance, the weight of your belongings, packing services, and any extras. Get quotes from multiple companies to avoid financial surprises.

Q: What should I look for in a reliable moving company?

Look for good reviews, proper licensing, and insurance. Clear pricing with no hidden fees is essential—nobody likes surprise bills!

Q: What are the effective methods for decluttering before a move?

Sort your items into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “trash” piles. Use the “one-year rule” for anything you haven’t touched in ages to make packing easier.

Q: What should I include in my essentials box for moving day?

Pack toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, basic kitchen items, chargers, and valuables—everything you’ll need right away.

Q: How can I reduce stress when moving with pets?

Keep their routine normal, confine them to a quiet space on moving day, and bring their comfort items. It’ll make the transition easier!

Q: What tips do you have for relocating with children?

Involve them in the process, keep them informed, pack their favorite things for the trip, and set up their room first. Simple and effective!

Q: What should I do if my belongings are damaged during the move?

Document the damage, contact the moving company, and file a claim. Check your contract and insurance details, so you’re prepared.

Q: What actions should I take if my moving schedule is delayed?

Communicate with your movers, arrange temporary accommodations, and inform anyone affected. Flexibility is key during a long-distance move!

Q: How can I acclimate to my new neighborhood?

Explore local amenities, introduce yourself to neighbors, and participate in community events Act like you already belong—you’ll fit in before you know it!