Organising a Move Across the Country

19 items · Lifestyle · Hard difficulty · 2 hours

Essential checklist to plan and pack a safe cross-country move.

• Make a moving timeline

  Set dates for booking movers, packing, utility changes, and final walkthrough.

• Get at least three removal company quotes

  Request on-site or video estimates, ask about insurance and binding options.

• Compare and book removal company

  Confirm price, insurance cover, arrival window and cancellation terms.

• Create room-by-room inventory and declutter

  List items to keep, sell, donate or discard before packing.

• Order packing materials

  Buy varied box sizes, tape, bubble wrap, mattress covers and markers.

• Pack non-essential rooms first

  Start with items used least: attic, guest room, seasonal gear.

• Label boxes with room and brief contents

  Use color codes and number boxes for easy unpacking.

• Wrap fragile items separately and mark 'Fragile'

  Use bubble wrap, padding, and double-box when needed.

• Assemble an essentials box for first night

  Keep this box with you or load last onto the van.

• Pack chargers and medications into essentials box

  Include phone chargers, prescriptions, and copies of prescriptions.

• Pack basic tools and cleaning supplies into essentials box

  Include screwdriver, box cutter, multi-tool, trash bags and cleaners.

• Pack a change of clothes and toiletries into essentials box

  Include one outfit per person, towels, toothbrushes, and toilet paper.

• Gather and secure important documents

  Collect passports, birth certificates, deeds, insurance and moving docs.

• Arrange vehicle hire or transport for your car

  Compare driving vs. auto-transport services and book early.

• Notify utilities, subscriptions and change address

  Schedule utility cut-off/setup and update postal and billing addresses.

• Transfer school and medical records

  Request transcripts, immunisation records, and transfer forms.

• Confirm moving day logistics and parking permits

  Reserve parking/loading space and confirm arrival window with movers.

• Prepare appliances and large furniture for transport

  Disconnect, clean, dry and secure loose parts; defrost fridge 24h prior.

• Take photos of electronics and furniture for insurance

  Photograph item condition and serial numbers before loading.

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