Planning a long-distance move can be a complex process, but having a solid checklist can make all the difference. When you’re moving across state lines or even across the country, there are plenty of things to keep track of – from organizing your belongings to coordinating logistics with your movers.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to guide you through each step.
With the right preparation, you can turn what might feel like an overwhelming task into a well-organized and stress-free experience.
The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist
1. Start Planning Early (8-12 Weeks Before Moving)
When it comes to long-distance moves, the earlier you start planning, the better. Begin by setting your moving date and creating a timeline of tasks to complete. Starting this process 8 to 12 weeks in advance will give you plenty of time to organize everything, without the last-minute rush.
- Set your moving date
- Book time off work for moving days if needed
- Research and choose your moving company
Look for highly rated long-distance movers, and get written estimates from at least three companies. - Create a moving budget
Include costs like moving services, packing materials, fuel, and temporary housing if needed.
2. Sort and Declutter Your Belongings (6-8 Weeks Before Moving)
One of the biggest advantages of starting early is having time to go through your belongings and decide what to take and what to leave behind. A long-distance move is a great opportunity to declutter and lighten the load.
- Go room by room to decide what you want to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
- Host a garage sale or sell items online to make some extra cash from things you no longer need.
- Donate or recycle items you don’t want to move but don’t want to throw away either.
- Create an inventory list of items you’re planning to take with you.
3. Hire and Confirm Your Movers (4-6 Weeks Before Moving)
By this point, you should have chosen your long-distance movers. Make sure to finalize the details with them well in advance to avoid any scheduling issues.
- Finalize the moving company
Make sure to confirm the moving date, services needed (e.g., packing, unpacking, disassembly of furniture), and any additional fees. - Purchase moving insurance
Protect your belongings in case of damage or loss during the move. - Confirm any special services
If you have fragile or valuable items, make sure your movers know ahead of time so they can bring proper packing materials or custom crating.
4. Start Packing Non-Essential Items (4-6 Weeks Before Moving)
Now it’s time to begin packing the items you don’t need right away. This can include seasonal clothing, books, decorations, and other non-essentials.
- Gather packing supplies
Stock up on boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and labels. - Pack by room
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. - Keep an inventory list
This will help you stay organized and ensure nothing is lost during the move.
5. Handle Important Documents and Utilities (2-4 Weeks Before Moving)
As your move date approaches, it’s important to take care of logistical and administrative tasks, like notifying important entities of your move and updating your address.
- Change your address with the post office, banks, and credit card companies.
- Transfer utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) to your new address or arrange disconnection.
- Request copies of important documents like medical records, school records, and insurance policies.
- Notify insurance companies
Make sure your health, auto, and home insurance policies are updated for your new state. - Set up new services
Arrange for services like cable and internet at your new home.
6. Prepare for Moving Day (1-2 Weeks Before Moving)
As moving day gets closer, start preparing for the logistics of the move itself. Begin packing your remaining belongings and make arrangements for travel.
- Pack essential items
Create a box of essentials you’ll need immediately after the move, such as toiletries, a few changes of clothes, important documents, and electronics. - Confirm travel arrangements
If you’re flying or driving to your new home, make sure all travel plans are confirmed. - Plan for pets and kids
If needed, arrange for pet care or babysitting on moving day to keep things running smoothly. - Disassemble furniture
Begin disassembling large items like beds, desks, and shelving units.
7. Moving Day
On the day of your move, the goal is to stay organized and minimize stress by ensuring everything runs smoothly.
- Meet with the movers
Walk them through your home and point out any fragile items. - Do a final walkthrough
Check each room to make sure nothing is left behind. - Take photos of your empty home
For rental properties, this can help ensure you get your deposit back. - Keep important documents with you
Always carry valuable paperwork, such as your lease, ID, or moving contract, with you instead of packing them in the moving truck.
8. Settling into Your New Home (After the Move)
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to unpack and settle in. This final step is all about making your new place feel like home.
- Unpack essentials first
Focus on the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. - Inspect your belongings
Make sure everything arrived safely and undamaged. - Set up utilities and services
Ensure your electricity, water, and internet are working. - Update your address again with any companies or services you forgot in the initial round.
- Explore your new neighborhood
Take some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings, meet your neighbors, and find nearby grocery stores, schools, or parks.
Moving long-distance can be daunting, but following this checklist will help keep you organized and on track.
From early planning and packing to managing logistics and settling into your new home, every step is important to ensure a smooth move.
With the right preparation, your long-distance move can be a stress-free experience, giving you more time to focus on the excitement of starting fresh in a new place.
