Must-Have Checklist for Moving Across the Country

Author: Justin Fishaw  

Moving Truck

Moving is a daunting task, and when you’re moving across the country, you definitely have to be organized if you want a smooth and enjoyable transition. We got you covered with the following must-have checklist for moving across the country:

6 – 8 Weeks Before Moving Across the Country Checklist

  • Purchase a notebook to help you stay organized.
  • Create a detailed inventory list, and decide now what items you want to keep, sell, donate or throw away.
  • Research local moving companies online.
  • Call moving companies for a free estimate.
  • Confirm or update your insurance to ensure coverage for your vehicle and valuable items.
  • Obtain important medical records.
  • Sell unwanted items.
  • Donate or throw away items you did not sell.

4 – 6 Weeks Before Moving Across the Country Checklist

  • Change your address with your local post office.
  • Decide on your moving company, and set the exact date for your move.
  • Cancel utility services, and schedule disconnection no earlier than the day AFTER your move.
  • Collect packing materials.
  • Gather important documents and valuable items, and pack in labeled box.

2 – 3 Weeks Before Moving Across the Country Checklist

  • Return borrowed items, like a casserole dishes, movie or video games.
  • Update your inventory list, and send it to the moving company.
  • Cancel or transfer all subscriptions, such as magazines, to your new home.
  • Begin packing, and label the contents and what room they belong to on the top and at least two sides of each box.
  • If you have children, make plans for someone to watch them on moving day.

1 Week Before Moving Across the Country Checklist

  • Notify institutions of your change in address, like credit card companies and utility companies (for your final bill).
  • Re-confirm your moving date with the movers.
  • Close bank accounts and empty safety deposit boxes.
  • Finish the last of your packing, and don’t forget to pack a kit for when you’re in transit:
    • Toilet paper
    • Snacks
    • Bottled water
    • Clean clothes
    • Flashlight and batteries
    • First-aid kit and medication
  • Separate boxes into piles to take with you and piles that will go with the movers.

2 – 3 Days Before Moving Across the Country Checklist

  • Make sure you have all important documents in a safe and accessible place.
  • To avoid additional charges from moving company, disassemble furniture.
  • Disconnect and label non-essential electronics.

Moving Day

  • Double-check inventory, specify special, fragile items and items staying with movers.
  • Clean as areas of your home become vacant.
  • Pay moving company.

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