What to Know Before Moving Across the Country

The logistical challenge associated with a cross-country move can be intense and much more than you anticipated. In order for the relocation effort to go off without a hitch, all aspects of the move must be planned for.

Contingencies may need to be in place, and all packing and prep work should be completed before moving day arrives. According to Kip’s Cross Country Movers, as you prepare for your upcoming cross-country relocation, your attention should initially focus on these important factors.

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Where You Will Live

While you may be eager to begin packing boxes and seeing physical results, it is best to do some research and make solid plans as a first step. You must know where you will live before you can make a reservation with a moving company or determine which items you do or do not need in your new home. In addition, your selection of a new residence impacts your finances and the moving budget. For example, a larger deposit may decrease the funds available for relocation.

You may be eager to settle into your own home in a new city; it may be best to rent for a few months. This gives you time to get to know the new location, and it can prevent you from making a hasty decision that you may regret later.

What Items You Will Need After the Move

Each home has a unique style and layout. There may be several items in your possession now that will not have a place in your new home. Perhaps you have an old sofa that you have been eager to get rid of for months. Getting rid of unwanted or unnecessary items before a relocation will save time, energy and money.

After all, why would you pay movers to load, haul and unload a couch that you intend to dispose of soon after you get settled in? While you are deciding which major items you want to keep, go through the garage, closets and other storage spaces. Get rid of junk that no longer serves a purpose in your life.

A Plan for Moving Day

You also need to develop a strategic plan for moving day. This begins by deciding which moving company to hire, but this is not the only important plan to make. Consider if you plan to fly to your new city or if you will drive your car behind the moving van.

Your travel plans should be made well in advance because they affect your budget and your relocation experience.

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Remember that these are only a few of the critical steps to take to prepare for a cross-country move. After all, you will also need to connect utilities in your new home, buy packing supplies, pack boxes, and more.

However, when you tackle these important steps up-front, you can more quickly and easily proceed with some of the other relocation prep steps that are required. It is never too early to begin walking through these steps and preparing for your cross-country relocation project.

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How to Plan a Cross-Country Move With Your Pets

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Moving to a new home is filled with stress caused by figuring out logistics, arranging long distance moving services, real estate, money, and the millions of other details that go into this journey. Cross-country moving, in particular, tends to cause the most stress because it’s such a major change in distance. While your initial concerns might be related to finding a new home or choosing transportation, have you thought about what you should do with your pets? Below you’ll find a few of the best options for transporting your furry friends thousands of miles away.

1. Drive Them

If you don’t mind a road trip spanning most of America and thousands of miles, then driving your pets might be the very best option. While this may seem simple since you can stick them in the car and head out, planning is important. In addition to proper seat harnesses or crates, frequent breaks are necessary for exercise, water, and food. You’ll also need to make sure your pets stay out of your way while you’re driving to ensure safety.

2. Fly Them With You

For those who are taking a cross-country flight, most pets are allowed to come on board with you. While there will be a fee, which depends on the airline and type of animal, this is generally the most affordable way to go. Planning ahead is important for this, as most airlines require you to have a pet-friendly bag as well as a recent health certificate. However, you may run into trouble if your pet is outside of the size range that’s allowed on the plane.

It’s best to check with your airline to find out what their requirements are for in-cabin pets. Most have this information readily available online, although you may want to call in for any questions you have.

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3.Fly Them in Cargo

Some airlines, such as United Airlines, have special programs that allow pets to fly in the cargo hold of a plane safely. One of the best parts about this program is that you can send them off on their own, as long as you have someone at the destination to pick them up. Keep in mind that rules and requirements for these programs can be strict. Some requirements may include:

– Certain size/style of crate

– Health certificate within days of travel

– Food and water

– Recent photos

If you plan on going this route, it’s crucial to call the airline ahead of time to find out about the booking process. You’ll also want to crate train your pet ahead of time, in order to familiarize them with the area they’ll be confined to during the flight.

4. Making Your Pet Comfortable at Home

After you arrive at your destination, it’s important to give your pet time to acclimate to their surroundings. One of the most important things to do is play with them often and give them a chance to cuddle so they have the comfort they may need. Additionally, give them food in their favorite dishes and make sure they get a lot of play. You can find more tips for helping your pet with this transition at AARP.

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Tips for Moving from the East Coast to the West Coast

Moving cross-country is expensive. With the cost of packing, shipping, and equipment, added with the additional cost of your sleep and sanity, if you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself broke and exhausted by the time you make it to your new home. However, when done with adequate planning, a cross-country move can go according to […]

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Moving Terminology You Should Know Before Signing a Contract

Moving is stressful, whether you’re moving from one apartment building to another building down the street or moving half-way across the world. It can also be shockingly expensive. Because of this, it is imperative that you know certain terms of the moving trade before you sign a contract. Here are some of them: Bill of […]

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