A Checklist for Your Cross-Country Move

Moving across the country is unquestionably a considerable undertaking, whether you plan to move for your love life or career aspirations. But a cross-country move can be the most exciting chapter in your life. And given you’re making such a big decision, make sure you’re making the right decision before you start the transition process.

For example, if you’re moving to the Midwestern part of the US, there is no better state than Nebraska. You can settle in Lincoln, one of the most liveable cities in the United States. The capital of Nebraska has a low cost of living (below the national average). Also, it boasts more parkland per capita than other cities in the US. Sounds good, no?

Nevertheless, here’s a handy guide to making your cross-country move a breeze.

1. Start decluttering

First things first – start purging the redundant items; make ruthless choices when decluttering your wardrobe, cabinets, and drawers. Pack possessions that would be useful for you in the new place and let go of the others.

One best approach is to classify your belongings into three categories: donate, sell, and trash. However, if you own possessions that hold sentimental value and you can’t seem to bid farewell to them, in that case, leverage storage units in the new place. If you’re really moving to Lincoln, type in Lincoln NE self storage on your search engine to choose a reliable and reputable storage facility for your possessions. This way, you can stack away your belongings safely and securely and even access them at your convenience.

2. Obtain quotes from movers

During a cross-country move, it’s advisable not to put off the task of hiring professional movers for the eleventh hour. Moving companies take bookings in advance, specifically during the peak season. Not only this, but these companies also need some time to manage their logistics of consolidating your stuff with other orders.

So, conduct preliminary research about the moving companies in your vicinity. You can even seek recommendations from family members, friends, or professional networks. And since the rates and offers of each mover vary, schedule appointments with at least two to three movers to compare the quotations. After all, nothing could be worse than hiring a rogue mover’s services during this challenging moving process.

Once you’ve narrowed down the list and assessed the quotes, arrange a meeting with your intended mover for an in-home estimate. This way, the movers can take inventory of the goods, accurately measure the dimensions of the gates, and give a more precise quotation.

3. Make preparations for pets

If you are a pet parent, ask someone to watch your fur baby on moving day. You can get in touch with your friends or family and ask if they can be a sitter for your pet. This way, your pet can be on safe premises, and the movers can load the moving truck without hassle.

Since every pet has needs, it’s your responsibility as a pet owner to tend to those needs and keep them healthy and safe for a move of this magnitude. Therefore, contingent on the travel arrangements, take the necessary measures for your canine companion. For instance, consult a veterinarian and seek medication and instructions to assuage your pet’s anxiety and sickness before traveling across the country.

4. Update utilities and address

When making a long-distance move, chances are you won’t be using your existing utility services. So, apprise the current utility service providers about your move date and schedule an appointment with them to disconnect the utility services a day or two after you move.

Next, research different utilities at your new place and get in touch with them. Set up installation dates to ensure you have necessities ready for your new home. Although you might need to deposit some amount for new connections, it’s still way better than spending the first night in the dark.

That said, another important task on your moving checklist is to update the address. Fill out the form online and file it via the United States Postal Service (USPS) two weeks before the moving day. Then, you can receive mail at the new residence without any hitches.

Final Words

Relocating to an unfamiliar place across the country can, undoubtedly, be an intimidating task. From figuring out the perfect place to live and refreshing the home aesthetics to researching reliable cross-country movers, there are plenty of factors to contemplate.

Not to mention ticking every task from moving to-do list can take a great deal of time. Therefore, try to begin early. Making sure to deal with all aspects of moving well in advance can help make your long-distance move hassle-free.

However, it’s relevant to note that the process of moving doesn’t wind up as soon as you move in. Once you settle, how you choose to unpack is equally essential, if not more, than when. Therefore, take time to unpack the boxes in an organized and systematic manner so that you can begin a new chapter of your life with a sense of accomplishment and joy.