How to Pack Your Home for a Cross Country Move

By: Harrison Gough Last Updated: Sep 13, 2023

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Moving cross country? Our packing tips will help make your move easier. From preparation to packing strategies, follow our guide for efficient and safe packing.


How to Pack Your Home for a Cross Country Move

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and stressful. However, when it comes to moving cross country, the process can become even more daunting.

There are several aspects of moving that require careful planning and execution, and packing is one of them.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to pack your home for a cross country move.

From preparation to packing strategies, we’ve got you covered.


Preparation

The first step in packing your home for a cross country move is to prepare adequately. This involves creating a moving checklist, gathering packing supplies, and, if necessary, hiring professional movers.

1. Make a Moving Checklist

A moving checklist is a great way to ensure that you don’t forget anything during the packing process. You can create your own checklist or use a template that can be found online.

Your checklist should include items such as packing supplies, important documents, and a timeline for when each room should be packed.

2. Gather Packing Supplies

Gathering the right packing supplies is crucial to the success of your move. You’ll need a variety of boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers.

It’s important to ensure that you have enough supplies to pack everything safely and securely.

3. Hire Professional Movers

If you have a lot of items to move, it may be worth considering hiring professional cross county movers. They can help with the packing process, as well as provide transportation and assistance with unpacking.

However, it’s important to do your research and hire best moving company to ensure that your belongings are in good hands.


Sorting and Decluttering

Before you start packing, it’s important to sort through your belongings and declutter. This will not only help reduce the number of items you need to pack, but also make it easier to organize your belongings.

1. Sort Items into Categories

Start by sorting your belongings into categories such as clothes, books, and kitchenware. This will help you identify items that you no longer need or use.

2. Donate or Sell Unwanted Items

Once you have identified items that you no longer need or use, consider donating them to charity or selling them online. This will not only reduce the number of items you need to pack, but also help you declutter your home.

3. Organize Remaining Items by Room

Once you have sorted and decluttered your belongings, organize the remaining items by room. This will make it easier to pack and unpack your belongings.


Packing Strategies

When it comes to packing for a cross country move, there are several strategies that you can use to ensure that your belongings are packed safely and efficiently.

1. Start with Non-Essential Items

Start by packing non-essential items such as seasonal decorations, books, and extra linens. This will help you get a head start on the packing process and reduce stress as your moving day approaches.

2. Use Appropriate Packing Materials

Use appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and boxes of varying sizes. It’s important to use the right materials to ensure that your belongings are packed safely and securely.

3. Pack Fragile Items Carefully

When packing fragile items such as dishes and glasses, wrap each item in packing paper or bubble wrap and place them in boxes with packing peanuts or other cushioning materials.

4. Label and Number Boxes

Labeling and numbering boxes is crucial to the success of your move. Use a marker to label each box with the room it belongs in and a brief description of its contents. It’s also a good idea to number your boxes and keep a list of what’s in each box.


Moving Large Items

Moving large items such as furniture can be challenging. However, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your items are moved safely and efficiently.

1. Disassemble Large Furniture

Disassemble large furniture such as beds, desks, and bookcases before moving them. This will make them easier to move and reduce the risk of damage.

2. Wrap and Protect Furniture During Transport

Wrap and protect furniture such as sofas and chairs with moving blankets or plastic wrap. This will prevent scratches and other damage during transport.

3. Hire Professional Movers for Large Items (Optional)

If you have large items that are difficult to move, it may be worth considering hiring cross-country movers. They can provide the necessary equipment and expertise to move your items safely and efficiently.


Final Steps

As you near the end of the packing process, there are a few final steps that you should take to ensure a successful move.

1. Double-Check All Boxes are Labeled

Before loading your boxes onto the moving truck, double-check that each box is labeled with the correct room and contents. This will help ensure that everything is packed and organized properly.

2. Take Inventory of All Boxes

Take inventory of all boxes and ensure that everything is accounted for. This will make it easier to unpack once you arrive at your new home.

3. Load Boxes into the Moving Truck Strategically

When loading your boxes into the moving truck, it’s important to do so strategically. Start with the heaviest boxes at the bottom and work your way up, placing lighter boxes on top.

This will help ensure that your items are packed securely and will not shift during transport.


FAQs

How far in advance should I start packing for a cross country move

We recommend starting the packing process at least six weeks before your moving date to ensure that everything is packed properly and on time.

Do long-distance moving companies provide packing assistance?

Yes, many long distance movers do provide packing assistance as part of their services. These companies understand that packing can be a time-consuming and overwhelming task, especially when you’re moving a significant distance.

How can I ensure that my fragile items are packed safely?

Wrap each fragile item in packing paper or bubble wrap and place them in boxes with packing peanuts or other cushioning materials.

How do I disassemble large furniture?

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional to disassemble your furniture safely and efficiently.

What should I do with items that I no longer need or use?

Consider donating them to charity or selling them online to reduce the number of items you need to pack.


Efficient and Safe Packing Strategies for Your Cross Country Move

Packing for a cross country move can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and execution, it can be done efficiently and safely. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can ensure that your belongings are packed properly and that your move is a success.