1. Create a To-Do List
   

   This may seem like an obvious step, but you would be surprised by how many people do not utilize this simple method to keep things on track.  You should write down everything that needs to be done prior to Moving on a piece of paper, and then put them in order of execution once you have everything written down. Writing them down twice will ensure that you do not miss anything.  You will want to include items directly related to the move itself, such as creating an inventory or getting boxes and tape, but you will also want to include things such as contacting your cable and utility companies and making sure that you go online to fill out a form to have your mail forwarded to your new address.

2. Purge all of the unnecessary things from your life

   Most of us are happy to stuff non-essential items into closets and drawers for years in an effort to keep your options open as to whether or not you really need something.  When you begin packing boxes to move across the Country, you will get a new perspective on the essentials.  What makes it easier to decide what to keep and what to toss or donate is the fact that if you are hiring a moving company, they will charge you based on the overall weight of the load and the distance travelled.  Typically, this knowledge will lead to a purge of sorts. Be sure to donate where you can, but then to toss out where it is necessary. In short, if it is stained or broken, do not expect anyone else to want it.

3. Create a detailed inventory
   

   As you are going through your belongings and organizing how each room will be packed, create a detailed inventory of all the items that are going into boxes.  You will want to have a system in place so that when you arrive at your new home after moving across the country, you can find everything you need, and quickly at that.  Many people will number their boxes or color code by using tape to mark which boxes will go to which rooms in your new home. Whichever method you choose, just make sure that you understand it.

4. Hire a moving company
   

   If you are moving a short distance, it is tempting to make several trips with the help of family and friends and their vehicles.  However, if you are moving across the country, it makes much more sense to hire a professional moving company. Professional Moving Companies will know what to do and what to expect when it comes to hauling someone’s life’s belongings across the country.  They will be highly trained professionals that will know how to safely pack delicate items, and they will also have all of the tools necessary to move larger items, such as refrigerators, china cabinets, couches and more.

5. Get a vehicle inspection
   

   If you are planning on driving to your new home across the country, be sure to take your vehicle in for an inspection at least a week ahead of your moving date.  If you are going to be driving across the country, you want to be sure that your vehicle is in good enough shape to make the trip. You should also do some research as to different routes, as well look up what kind of weather you may encounter on the road.  If you are moving across the country, it would be wise to find out what protocols are in place for severe weather in any given area, for example, do you know what to do if you are suddenly trapped in a dust storm?

6. Make sure you have one bag per a family member with the “essentials”
   

   Professional moving companies will have an expected delivery date, but keep in mind that if they encounter bad weather, you could arrive a day or two ahead of the truck itself.  For this reason, you will want to have a bag for each family member with a few changes of clothes, toiletries, phone chargers and so on. You would also be wise to have some form of bedding such as blankets, blow up mattresses or sleeping bags in the event that you are waiting for your belongings overnight.

We know that the thought of moving across the country can be anxiety-inducing to some people, so please reach out to us at any time so that we can provide our assistance, guidance, and expertise.  We are committed to making sure your mind is at ease through every step of the process of moving across the country. Call My Tucson Movers today at