Moving Cross-Country? Your Complete 8-Week Checklist
Long-distance moves fail in the planning, not the driving. Start eight weeks out and moving day becomes just another Tuesday.
Week 8 — Book and purge
Get three in-home or video quotes, verify USDOT numbers, and start donating, selling and recycling. Every item you do not move saves money.
Week 6 — Supplies and records
Buy more boxes than you think you need. Transfer school, medical and veterinary records, and photograph valuables for insurance.
Week 4 — Logistics
File your change of address, schedule utility shutoff/start dates with three days of overlap, and book elevators or parking permits if needed.
Week 2 — Pack the non-essentials
Label every box on two sides with room and contents. Build your "first night" box: bedding, chargers, coffee maker, documents, kids' favorites.
Week 1 — Confirm everything
Reconfirm crew times and your written estimate. Defrost the freezer, set aside hardware, and prepare tips and water for the crew.
Moving day
Walk the crew through first, then read every paper before signing. Photograph the empty home, meter readings and loaded truck.
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