Moving across the country? That’s a big adventure! As someone who’s helped countless people manage the exciting (and sometimes chaotic) world of homeownership, I know firsthand that a cross-country move can be a daunting task. But with careful planning and these tips for moving across the country, you’ll be unpacking boxes and exploring your new location in no time.
Listen to an audio discussion about this topic
Planning and Preparation
Before you pack a single sock, we need a solid game plan. Get down to the nitty-gritty of prepping for your big move, from budgeting and loans to finding your dream home in a brand-new city.
- 1. Budget like a Boss: Before you even think about packing, figure out your finances. Moving across the country has some costs involved! Create a detailed budget that includes everything from moving truck rentals to celebratory pizzas in your new place.
- 2. Explore Loan Options: First-time homebuyer? Congrats! Now’s the time to dive into the world of mortgages. VA Loans, Conventional Loans, USDA Loans, FHA Loans — it can feel like alphabet soup! But don’t worry; DSLD Mortgage is here to help you find the perfect fit.
- 3. VA Loan Power: Are you a veteran or active-duty military member? A VA Loan might be your ticket to homeownership. These loans often come with lower interest rates and require no down payment. Check out our VA Loan mortgage calculator to see how much you can afford.
- 4. Conventional Comfort: Conventional Loans are a popular choice for those with good credit scores and a solid financial history. They offer flexibility and competitive interest rates. Try our Conventional Loan mortgage calculator to crunch the numbers.
- 5. USDA Rural Charm: Dreaming of a home in a more rural setting? A USDA Loan might be the perfect option. These loans offer zero down payment and flexible credit requirements for eligible borrowers. See if our USDA Loan map covers the area you’re moving to.
- 6. FHA Flexibility: FHA Loans are a great option for first-time buyers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments. And guess what? You can even get a 30-year FHA Loan on a manufactured home!
- 7. Down Payment Assistance: Don’t let the down payment scare you away from homeownership. Explore down payment assistance programs in your new state. You might be surprised at the options available.
- 8. Pick Your Moving Date Wisely: Consider the time of year and weather conditions in your current location and your destination. Moving during the off-season (fall or spring) can often save you money.
- 9. Research Moving Companies: Get quotes from several reputable moving companies. Compare services, prices, and customer reviews. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- 10. Declutter Like a Minimalist: Moving is the perfect excuse to get rid of stuff you don’t need. Sell, donate, or toss anything that doesn’t spark joy. The less you have to move, the lower your moving costs will be.
Packing and Organization
It’s all about packing smart and staying organized throughout your move. From essential packing supplies to labeling tips, these tips will save you from a world of unpacking headaches.
- 11. Gather Packing Supplies: Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and packing paper. Pro tip: Check with local businesses for free boxes.
- 12. Label Everything Clearly: Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home to save you a ton of time and frustration when unpacking.
- 13. Pack Room-by-Room: This helps keep things organized and makes unpacking easier. Start with non-essential items and work your way to the essentials.
- 14. Important Documents = Carry-On: Keep important documents, like your driver’s license, birth certificate, social security card, and mortgage paperwork, with you during the move.
- 15. Create an Essentials Box: Pack a box with everything you’ll need for the first few days in your new home: toiletries, medications, phone chargers, a few changes of clothes, and maybe even a coffee maker!
- 16. Use Vacuum Bags: These space-saving wonders are perfect for bulky items like blankets, pillows, and winter clothes.
- 17. Take Inventory: Before you start packing, create a detailed inventory of your belongings to help you keep track of everything and ensure nothing gets lost or damaged during the move.
- 18. Back up Important Files: Back up important computer files and photos to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
The Move Itself
The big day is approaching, which means managing the logistics of the move itself, including closing costs, travel arrangements, and more.
- 19. Closing Costs Clarity: Don’t forget about closing costs! These are the fees and expenses you’ll pay to finalize your mortgage and purchase your new home. Your lender will provide you with a detailed estimate of these costs in advance.
- 20. Confirm with Movers: Double-check the moving date, time, and any special instructions with your chosen moving company.
- 21. Final Walk-Through: Before you hand over the keys to your old place, do a final walk-through to ensure you haven’t left anything behind and that any agreed-upon repairs are complete.
- 22. Travel Plans: Book flights and hotels or plan your road trip itinerary in advance. If you’re driving, map out your route and make reservations for overnight stays. Consider breaking up a long drive into manageable chunks to avoid exhaustion.
- 23. Moving with Pets? Make sure your furry friends are microchipped and have updated ID tags. Pack their essentials in a separate bag and consider bringing familiar items to help them adjust to their new surroundings. If flying, check with the airline for pet travel requirements.
- 24. Shipping Your Car: If you’re not driving your car across the country, research auto transport companies and get quotes. Make sure your vehicle is properly insured for the trip, and factor in delivery timeframes when planning your move.
- 25. Temporary Housing: If there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, arrange temporary housing. This could be an Airbnb, a short-term rental, or staying with friends or family.
- 26. Pack a Toolkit: Having a basic toolkit handy can be a lifesaver for quick fixes and assembling furniture in your new home.
- 27. Notify Important Parties: Inform your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other relevant institutions of your new address and moving date.
- 28. Confirm Insurance: Whether you use a moving company or transport your belongings yourself, make sure your belongings are adequately insured during the move.
- 29. Carry Valuables with You: Keep valuable items like jewelry, electronics, and important documents with you during the move, rather than packing them in the moving truck.
- 30. Prepare for Unexpected Delays: Build some flexibility into your travel plans in case of unexpected delays due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances.
- 31. Consider a Portable Storage Container: If you need more flexibility with your move, consider using a portable storage container. These containers can be delivered to your home, packed at your own pace, and then shipped to your new location.
Settling In
Congratulations, you made it! Now it’s time to turn that new house into a home.
- 32. Unpack Strategically: Start with the essentials and tackle one room at a time. Don’t feel pressured to unpack everything at once.
- 33. Set up Utilities: Contact your new utility providers to set up electricity, gas, water, and internet service.
- 34. Update Your Address: Notify banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other important institutions of your new address.
- 35. Register to Vote: Update your voter registration in your new state.
- 36. Explore Your New Area: Get out and explore your new neighborhood! Discover local parks, restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
- 37. Find Your Tribe: Join local groups or clubs based on your interests to meet new people and make friends.
- 38. Update Your Car Insurance: Notify your car insurance company of your new address and state.
- 39. Forward Medical Records: If you’re seeing new healthcare providers, arrange for your medical records to be transferred to their offices.
- 40. Register Your Vehicle: Register your vehicle in your new state and obtain new license plates.
- 41. Find a New Bank: If you’re not happy with your current bank, research local banks and credit unions in your new city.
- 42. Get to Know Your Neighbors: Introduce yourself to your new neighbors and get to know the people in your community.
Bonus Tips
Okay, we’ve covered the essentials, but here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to help you manage the unexpected and embrace the emotional rollercoaster of a cross-country move.
- 43. Expect the Unexpected: Things don’t always go according to plan. Be prepared for unexpected expenses or delays.
- 44. Embrace the Emotions: Moving across the country can be an emotional rollercoaster. Allow yourself to feel all the feels, whether it’s excitement, anxiety, or a bit of homesickness.
- 45. Stay Connected: Keep in touch with loved ones back home through phone calls, video chats, or social media.
- 46. Research the Cost of Living: Before you move, research the cost of living in your new city to get an idea of expenses like housing, groceries, and transportation. Discover the cheapest states to live in the US (and the most expensive).
- 47. Learn About Local Resources: Familiarize yourself with local resources like libraries, community centers, and government offices.
- (Bonus Tip) Enjoy the Journey! Moving across the country is a big adventure. Embrace the experience and enjoy the journey!
Ready to Conquer Your Cross-Country Move?
Moving across the country is a big step, but it’s also an incredible opportunity for a fresh start. With careful planning and these tips, you can make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Need help managing the financial side of your move? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or already a homeowner, DSLD Mortgage is here to support you on your homeownership journey — every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation! We’ll help you explore your loan options, find the best mortgage for your needs, and answer all your questions about financing your new home.
How much will your mortgage be? You can use DSLD Mortgage’s Mortgage Calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payment.
Current mortgage rates holding you back? Don’t miss out on these deals! Buy a home with DSLD Mortgage and take advantage of our limited-time mortgage promotions.
Article Sources
- Miracle Movers. “How To Research & Compare Different Moving Companies” December 01, 2009
- Organized-ish. “Prepping An Open-First Box For Moving” May 28, 2020.
