Moving Cross-Country? Here’s Your Ultimate Packing Checklist
Are you taking on a cross-country move? Moving and packing for such a significant endeavor may sound daunting. As your local moving company, we at Speedy Movers have prepared a packing checklist to get you on the right foot. Let’s dive in!
9 Step Cross-Country Move Packing Checklist
#1: Create a Moving Plan
Taking on a cross-country move is a big adventure where ample time will be your best friend. We highly recommend you start by crafting a moving and packing timeline and action plan. In this plan, you should determine your moving dates and designate specific days to declutter, pack, and organize your home.
#2: Start Early & Declutter
Packing a home often takes far longer than most people expect. To perform a low-stress cross-country move, you must start packing several weeks before the moving day to avoid rushing. We recommend scheduling time into your plan to work on decluttering before you even begin to pack. Set aside a few hours to go through each closet, determining items to trash, sell, donate, and keep.
#3: Get the Right Packing Materials
Next, you want to stock up on appropriate packing materials, such as sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, labels, and tape. To figure out what you need for your move, check out our Box Calculator.
#4: Set Aside an Essentials Box
Before you dive deep into your packing checklist, we highly recommend setting aside an essentials box. An essentials box should be packed with items needed right away upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and your important documents. You don’t want these critical items to get mixed up with other boxes!
#5: Pack Room by Room
If you do not plan to take advantage of packing services by your moving company, we suggest DIYing your packing checklist room by room. In each room, you will want to break down specific items, pack them, and label them appropriately, such as “kitchenware,” “bedroom items,” and “bathroom supplies.” Packing room by room will ensure you remain organized and efficient with your moving and packing plan.
#6: Pack Fragile Items
As you are packing, we suggest setting aside fragile items like glassware and artwork to be packed separately. You can use extra padding and protective materials to ensure these items are well-secured throughout the move. If you have an item you aren’t sure how to pack, we recommend asking your moving company for advice. Just remember, any box that has fragile items in it should be labeled “FRAGILE,” so your moving services know to handle it with care.
#7: Pack Electronics & Appliances
Similarly, with fragile items, packing electronics and appliances needs to be done with extra care. For example, you will want to secure cords to the device to prevent them from getting ripped away. Additionally, if you happen to have kept its original box, you will absolutely want to use it during the move. If not, you will want to make sure they are thoroughly wrapped with packing paper, bubble wrap, or packing pads, filling in any excess space or gaps with packing materials to prevent rattling or sliding within the box.
#8: Disassemble Large Items
As you near your cross-country move date, it is time to take on large items. If you can disassemble the items, it will save significant space and minimize potential damage. If they cannot disassemble, you will want to utilize covers and blankets to protect the furniture during transport. If furniture disassembly or management sounds overwhelming, we suggest speaking with your moving company to determine if their packing services include furniture disassembly or management.
#9: Prepare a Final Checklist
Lastly, as you approach the final days of your cross-country move, we suggest going over a final checklist. This checklist should include:
Do a Final Walkthrough – Check every room, closet, cabinet, and drawer to ensure nothing is left behind. Don’t forget high shelves, attics, basements, and garages.
Clean and Clear – Sweep, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces. If renting, ensure you meet any cleaning requirements for deposit return.
Pack an Essentials Box & Personal Bag – Include toiletries, medications, chargers, and important documents for easy access.
Confirm Moving Logistics – Double-check the moving company’s arrival time, payment details, and any last-minute requirements.
Gather Keys & Important Docs – Make sure you have all house keys, garage openers, and any paperwork needed for the transition.
Say Goodbye & Do One Last Sweep – Walk through your home one final time before locking up.
Moving cross-country? Contact Speedy Movers today for expert help and personalized moving solutions to make your long-distance move a breeze!