Long Distance Moving Tips: Your Guide to a Cross Country Move in 2025

Source

Planning a cross-country move is like preparing for an epic road trip, except you are not just packing snacks and a playlist.

…you are packing up your entire life and hauling it long-distance!

You could be relocating from the hustle and bustle of Dallas in Texas to sunny Arizona or from the mountains of Colorado to arid Nevada.

Cross-country moves demand a lot more planning than simply hopping over to a new neighborhood within the state.

Dealing with logistics and different state laws can make the task feel monumental. But with the right preparation and tips on how to move long distances, you too will soon be unpacking your boxes stress-free in your new home.

So, let’s get started!

1. Start Preparing Early

Moving cross-country requires a lot of work, and procrastination is not your friend when you have to move long distances. 

Ideally, you should start planning about 6-8 weeks before moving day. There are lots of things you need to check before booking those long distance movers. 

Things like:

• Researching,
• Comparing moving companies,
• Creating a long-distance moving checklist,
• Finding boxes for packing

…they all come in the planning phase!

2. Create a Long-Distance Moving Checklist

As mentioned earlier, your “how to prepare for a long distance move” doesn’t need to be quite complicated. A well-organized moving checklist can help.

A long-distance moving checklist is essential for tackling the complexities of a cross-country move. Break the list down into timelines, starting 6-8 weeks in advance.

Include tasks like:

• Decluttering,
• Booking movers,
• Notifying utility companies of your move, 
• Transferring your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you are moving to a new state.

Having everything written down ensures nothing slips through the cracks. It also keeps you on track, even when things get hectic.

3. Take Decluttering Seriously

Relocating light is how to move long distances stress-free, when you are moving cross-country — every pound of weight counts. 

Before packing a single box, comb your belongings with a fine-toothed comb. Ask yourself:

• Do I need this?
• Will I use this in my new home?

If you have not touched said item in the past year, chances are you don’t need it. Then, you can organize a garage sale or list items on Facebook Marketplace.

Alternatively, you can donate to local charities. Not only does this lighten your load (and your moving costs), but it also ensures your new home starts clutter-free.

For instance, instead of hauling your old BBQ grill to Colorado, consider selling it in Dallas and buying a new one after you move.

4. Understand Moving Costs and Budget Wisely

Moving cross-country is not cheap. However, knowing how costs get calculated can help you avoid sticker shock. 

Local moves are often billed by the number of rooms or hours required to complete the job. But with long-distance moves? It’s all about the weight of your belongings and the miles covered. 

Yes, that bookshelf you have debated keeping could weigh your budget. Movers typically charge based on:

• The weight of your items,
• The distance,
• Additional services like packing, insurance, or storage.

For instance, let’s say you are moving from Dallas to Denver. If your total load weighs 5,000 pounds and the distance is around 800 miles, your move could cost anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000.

5. Hire Reputable Movers

Online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations have not gone out of phase yet. In your cross-country move, these are your best buds.

There may be many movers in your location, but not all can actually cover long distances. It’s best to choose movers who have the experience and expertise to ensure a smooth move. 

• Search for movers with high ratings and transparent pricing.
• Avoid companies that ask for large deposits upfront or refuse to provide a written contract.

Another option for moving long distances is to hire a rental truck or company, depending on the available option.

6. Learn How to Pack Smart 

One long-distance moving tip you shouldn’t joke about is how to pack. Packing for a long-distance move is a whole different ball game than a local one.

Items will get jostled around for hours, possibly days. So, there’s a right and wrong way to do your packing.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Use high-quality packing supplies, like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape.

• Label boxes with the contents and the room in which they belong.

• Pack an essentials box with items you will need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and basic kitchenware).

• Keep all documents, licenses, and registrations packed differently (and on your person) from the rest of your things.

7. Consider Shipping Your Car

Driving from Dallas to Arizona or Nevada might sound like an adventure. But it can be exhausting, especially when you have kids or pets in tow. 

Instead, consider hiring an experienced auto transport service provider to ship your car. You should compare quotes from Dallas-based auto shippers to find the best rate.

Shipping a car from a city like Dallas to another like Phoenix typically costs between $600 and $1,000. However, this cost is dependent on the size of the vehicle and the shipping method (open vs. enclosed transport).

You just need to prep your car by cleaning it. Remove personal items and ensure they are in good working condition before shipping.

8. Plan for State-Specific Requirements

How to plan a long distance move involves getting familiar with the local laws in your new location. Moving cross-country often means dealing with new rules. 

For instance, if you are leaving Dallas, Texas, for Colorado, you must update your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days. 

Also, Colorado requires all vehicles of model 1981 or newer to pass an emissions test once every two years. So, if you’re headed there, make sure your car is ready for inspection.

Similarly, state laws about sales tax or even specific pet regulations may differ. Research these requirements ahead of time to avoid surprises.

9. Notify Important Parties

Notifying important parties, such as updating your address with the USPS, is another item to check off your “how to move long distances” list. 

Also, notify your banks and credit card companies about the change of address. 

Remember to set up cancellations and transfers in advance for services like utilities (electricity, gas, and internet).

Notify these providers at least 2-3 weeks ahead to avoid paying for services after you have moved.

10. Be Flexible

Things don’t always go according to plan when planning a move, so be open to adjusting your moving dates, routes, or even timelines.

Sometimes, it can be an extra couple of bucks worth of savings or reduced stress. Moving midweek or mid-month, for instance, often costs less.

Note:

Most moving companies offer discounts during off-peak times. By staying adaptable, you can easily navigate unexpected changes and keep your budget in check.

Endnote: The Handy Tip Guide

A cross-country relocation in 2025 may just be part of your year-long plan on how to move long distances that’s needed to boost your life.

While it may seem overwhelming at first, it can be a smooth process with these moving tips. Simply create a moving checklist, declutter, draft your budget, find a reputable moving company, and notify relevant providers. 

Above all, start early and remain flexible. Before you know it, you will be settling into your new home.