How to move cross country: your step-by-step guide

A cross-country move is intimidating. There are countless logistical considerations, not to mention the emotional weight of leaving the familiar behind. Having a clear plan of action can ease much of the stress, which is why we’ve created this cross-country moving checklist to leave no stone unturned. 

This guide will take you through the entire process of moving cross-country, from picking a location to updating your address and settling into your new home. We’ll address concerns like what to do if your new home isn’t ready when you arrive, how to travel with pets, where to stay between leases and more.

Key takeaways

• Start by researching your new city, including neighborhoods, housing costs, transportation and schools.
• Before you leave your starting point, double check the move-in date of your new home.
• Try to downsize before moving to reduce clutter and potentially lower moving costs.
• Choose the best transportation for moving cross country based on your budget, timeline and belongings.
• Map your route and book overnight lodging in advance if you're driving.
• Once you arrive, update your address with government agencies like the DMV, post office, your place of employment and relevant financial and healthcare institutions. 

 1. Research your new hometown

Researching your new city will help you decide which neighborhood you want to put down roots in, while also building excitement for your new community.

You’ll want to look into: 

• Housing options 
• Cost of living
• Schools and employment opportunities 
• Walkability and public transportation access
• Safety

Websites like AreaVibes and Niche can help you conduct this initial research. Google Maps street view is also a great way to "walk" prospective areas and get a feel for your new surroundings.

Browsing neighborhood-specific Facebook groups and subreddits can give you an invaluable, first-person perspective on what it’s like to live in the neighborhood(s) you’re considering.

However, there’s no substitute for direct information from a trusted source. Find out if you have any friends (or friends of friends) in the community. They may have advice on the best area to live in, places to hang out or restaurants to visit.

2. Confirm your new home is ready for move-in

So, you’ve picked out a place and virtually signed the lease or deed. Should be ready to go, right?

Well, actually, there are still a few details to square away before you pack your things and hit the road:

• If moving into a rental, generally, you’ll want the following before moving: 
• A copy of the signed lease, mailed or emailed ahead of time.
• Written confirmation of the move-in date from the landlord or property manager.
• A professional move-in clean, if specified in your agreement.
• If moving into a home you bought, generally, you’ll want the following before moving: 
• A confirmed closing date from the title company or realtor.
• Written confirmation of the move-in date from the realtor or previous owner.
• A professional inspection of the property, if one was not conducted prior to purchase.

If you’d prefer to find a temporary landing spot in your new city prior to locking down permanent housing, we don’t blame you. This is a great option to get a feel for the options and areas nearby and not commit to anything sight unseen. In this case, you need affordable, month-to-month or week-to-week lodging without the long-term commitment of a lease. 

That’s where extended stay hotels for cross-country moves can help. Extended Stay America specializes in helping guests who are in between permanent housing. Amenities like full kitchens in every suite, pet-friendly rooms and on-site laundry provide the comforts of home without the restrictions of an apartment lease or short-term rental. 

3. Figure out how you are getting across the country

Now it’s time to plan the logistics of your move. Each option will have its own advantages and drawbacks. The best way for you to move cross country will largely depend on your budget, how much you’re bringing with you, how far you’re moving and how comfortable you need to be while traveling.

*Relative costs vary based on distance, timing, number of travelers and volume of luggage.

4. Decide what you're going to take with you

Now it’s time to decide what you want to bring with you. 

If you travel by plane, train or bus, you’ll be limited by how much luggage you’re allowed to bring. You will either need to ship or say goodbye to items you cannot fit in your luggage. 

In many cases, getting rid of belongings you don’t need will lower the cost and stress of the move.

The earlier you can start this process, the less stressed you’ll be as your moving date approaches. Start by sorting your belongings into the following categories:

• Keep: Important items, things you love and belongings you use often should come with you. 
• Sell: Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp or a good, old-fashioned yard sale are great ways to recoup some of your moving expenses and declutter at the same time. 
• Donate: If you’re unable or unwilling to sell something but still want to get rid of it, consider donating it. If you're planning a donation pickup from your home, schedule it well before moving day.
• Toss: It’s likely you have some items that have reached the end of their usefulness.  

5. Figure out how you'll transport your belongings

Paying for extra help when moving cross country can really pay off. If your budget will allow it, consider the following options:

**Verify they're registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) before booking.

The amount of stuff you're moving is one of the biggest factors in this decision. A studio apartment may fit in a car or small rental truck, while a larger home may require a portable container or full-service movers. In the end, a strategic combination of these options may present the most affordable way to move cross country.

Packing tips if you're using a car or moving truck

Here are some packing tips to help you and your belongings get to your destination safely. Be sure to:

• Pack heavier items first. You’ll want them to be on the bottom and close to the front of the vehicle. Follow the vehicle’s loading guidance and distribute weight evenly so the vehicle remains balanced during travel.
• Disassemble furniture to save space.
• Stack long items like box frames vertically against the vehicle walls and secure them with tie-down straps.
• Use towels, bedding or other soft items between gaps in furniture to reduce the risk of scratches.
• Keep an easily accessible bag full of essentials like phone chargers, medication, toiletries and a change of clothes.

6. Confirm stops and mid-travel lodging

Moving is exhausting. So is driving long distances. 

It’s critical you get some rest when you’re on the road. Rather than trying to maximize driving time, plan realistic daily stretches that leave room for breaks and unexpected delays.

It’s generally recommended that you spend no more than eight to 10 hours driving per day, so plan your lodging locations accordingly. And don’t forget to book in advance, so you aren’t scrambling to find rooms at the last minute after driving all day. 

Travel tip: Extended stay hotels, like Extended Stay America, are a convenient option for multi-night drives, as rooms include:

• Fully equipped kitchens 
• Free wi-fi 
• On-site laundry 
• Pet-friendly accommodations 

Depending on the reservation, flexible cancellation policies can also make it easier to adjust if your plans change.

7. Travel smart and safe

There are some practical safety measures you should take before and during your trip. These include:

• Getting your vehicle inspected before a long drive. If you're renting a moving truck, choose a reputable company and inspect the vehicle before setting out. Take photos of the vehicle from all angles, inside and outside, before you leave the lot. This helps protect you from paying hefty fees in case the vehicle has notes of damage or dings when you return it. 
• Packing an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, a flashlight, jumper cables, food, water, maps and other essentials.
• Keeping valuable items and essential documents either on your person or in the cab (not packed away in the moving truck or shipping container).
• If you’ll be moving cross-country with kids, be sure to plan frequent stops, including places where they can let off some steam after spending hours in the car. 
• Share your location, route and check-in times with friends and family who aren’t traveling with you.
• If traveling with pets, ensure food, water, bowls, leashes and vet records are easily accessible.

8. Update your information

Once you’ve made your move, it’s time to update your personal information. Make sure you provide your new address to:

• The DMV for your license and vehicle registration 
• Voter registration
• Healthcare providers and pharmacies.
• USPS to forward your mail
• Banks and credit card companies
• Your employer for payroll and tax purposes
• Automotive and health insurers
• Subscriptions and memberships

Settle into your new home with confidence

Moving across the country is a big undertaking, but breaking the process into manageable steps can reduce stress and keep costs under control. Make sure you:

• Research your new neighborhood
• Confirm your home is ready for move-in
• Decide the best way to move yourself, your family and your items cross country 
• Downsize, if possible 
• Map your route and book lodging, if applicable 
• Take measures to keep everyone safe 

Extended Stay America hotels can also ease the burden of travel, both as a comfortable, convenient stop along the way or as a temporary home if your new place isn’t fully ready once you arrive. 

If you’re in need of a place to stay one night while on the road or a place to call your temporary home, book your stay today.