Simplify Your Move Across The Country in 10 Steps

Moving cross-country is an exhilarating yet daunting adventure. There are endless reasons people make this leap: some decide to move closer to family or receive a job offer they couldn’t refuse, or perhaps they just need a change of scenery. Whatever the case, the fact remains that moving is a taxing process—physically, emotionally, and financially—regardless of whether you move across the city or the country. Learn how to make your cross-country move simpler, less stressful, and more affordable in 10 steps!

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1. Organize your finances

Moving is a significant financial burden—the average cost of moving across the country is approximately $4,500 as of 2024, with the upper range nearing $7,000. Saving money for moving costs could take years for some people, so it’s always best to start budgeting for moving-related expenses as early as possible. How expensive your move will be depends on multiple factors, including the cost of moving services, the type of transportation, the size of your current and new home, the distance of travel, and the location you’re moving to and from. Regardless, you should always aim to save more than you think you’ll need, as surprise expenses are almost guaranteed. 

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2. Make a checklist

The first step in getting organized is to always make a checklist, or in some cases, multiple checklists. As you prepare to move, you should create a to-do list for every part of the moving process, including packing, arranging travel, scheduling appointments for utilities and services, etc. Include every small and big task that needs to be completed before you move, along with relevant deadlines, so you can lay out a clear timeline of when each item needs to get done. Creating a moving checklist will help keep you on track and even boost your morale as you progress with every new checkmark!

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3. Sell or donate what you don’t need

As unpleasant as parting with our belongings can be, decluttering is a necessary part of the moving process. The more stuff you have, the more strenuous, time-consuming, and expensive your move will be. Get rid of everything you don’t want or need ahead of time by holding a garage sale, giving items away to friends and family, selling furniture on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, and donating jewelry, clothing, and other household items to Goodwill. Then, you can put any money you earn toward your moving fund. 

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4. Start packing early

Now that you’ve decluttered your home, it’s time to start packing. Regardless of how much you decluttered, the reality is you likely still have more stuff than you know what to do with. Thus, don’t delay the packing process! It’s never too early to start, and you’ll thank yourself later when you don’t have to scramble to throw everything in boxes at the last minute. When packing, try creating a labeling system that works for you! Whether you choose to label your boxes by content, room, or something else entirely, organizing and tracking the packed items will make unpacking 100x easier. 

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5. Consider hiring a moving company 

Hiring a professional moving company can take some of the burden off your shoulders, but it’s also another expense to consider. If you don’t have the budget for a moving company, you can always rent a moving truck and tow your belongings yourself. Forgoing professional help will take more time and effort, but it’s certainly the more affordable choice. Weigh the pros and cons of each option to decide what’s best for you, however, don’t procrastinate on making the necessary arrangements. 

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6. Create a travel plan 

After deciding whether to hire movers, you can create a travel plan. Whether driving or flying, book any necessary accommodations at hotels or elsewhere in advance. If you’re traveling with animals, identify pet-friendly accommodations. If you’re flying, book your flights as early as possible and notify the airline of any accommodations for children, pets, or additional assistance. If you’re driving, map out the location of gas stations, hotels, rest stops, or restaurants along your route so you know when to schedule stops during your trip. If you’re traveling with kids or pets, there will likely be unexpected bathroom breaks, but creating a travel plan should give you a rough estimate of your trip’s length and ensure a smoother moving process.

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7. Notify utility and service providers

As a renter, the amount of utility and service providers to contact about your move will vary. Regardless, most people will need to contact their phone, cable, and internet providers, their life, health, car, and home insurance providers; their children’s old and new schools; and any subscription services that deliver products. You should also notify the U.S. Postal Service of your move so they can forward your mail to your new address.

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8. Pack a travel bag 

Your travel bag should include all the necessities you can’t live without while traveling. Each family member should have their own bag to easily find their travel essentials. Don’t forget important documents, water, snacks, phone chargers, medications, toiletries, entertainment, pet supplies, and a few days’ worth of outfits. Be sure to check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly!

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Once you’ve moved into your new home, it will take some time to unpack everything. Along with your travel necessities, set aside anything you’ll need for the first few days in your new home. That way, you won’t have to frantically unpack every box the night you arrive to find something you desperately need. As mentioned, labeling those boxes will be an immense help in the first few days!

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9. Don’t rush your goodbyes 

Saying goodbye to friends, family, and neighbors is one of the hardest parts of the moving process. Give yourself ample time to say goodbye before leaving by scheduling plenty of get-togethers with loved ones in the months leading up to your move. Your kids may find this transition especially difficult, so plan lots of time with their friends before you hit the road. Before you go, don’t forget to check everyone’s contact information to ensure it is up to date so you can stay in touch with friends and family!

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10. Find your new home

Finding your new home is the most exciting part of the moving process, but it can also be the most challenging. You’ll need to consider many aspects, including location, budget, lifestyle, and more, to select a home that is right for you. Make a plan and stick to your gut instincts when determining where your next home will be.

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Moving can be challenging to navigate without a proper plan, whether you're moving across the country or just a few blocks away. Stay prepared with these 10 tips to simplify your moving process!

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A Better Living Experience

Bridge Homes is dedicated to helping people find rental homes in major cities across the U.S. Whether you are seeking a new beginning or a fresh start, Bridge Homes can be your partner in finding your new rental home. Explore our listings and take the first step towards a well-maintained and fulfilling living experience.

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Additional Sources:

Cheap ways move cross-country

How To Move Across The Country

How to Move Cross-Country Without Going Broke and/or Insane

Moving Cross-Country? 12 How-To Tips for an Easier Move

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