How To Plan A Coast To Coast Move

By: Harrison Gough Last Updated: Sep 12, 2024

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Moving across the country can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. That's why we've put together these tips and tricks to help make your coast-to-coast move a breeze.


How To Plan A Coast To Coast Move

Planning a move from coast to coast is no easy feat. You are literally moving from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. This would be a longer move than a cross-country move if you think about it.

There are many things you have to take into consideration before you make any decisions. However, with the right information and planning techniques, the move will be a breeze.

In this article, we will cover all the tips and tricks you will need to know when moving from coast to coast.


To DIY or Not DIY

When relocating from coast to coast, doing it yourself (DIY) is probably not the best idea because it’s extremely difficult and risky, and no matter what, it won’t be cheap.

Driving a rented truck can also be a hassle because you are driving thousands of miles, which can take up to a week. By doing this, it can be physically and mentally draining due to paying for tolls, gas, parking, meals, and lodging. Not only this, but you should also make sure all your belongings are safe and not damaged from over-the-road shock and vibrations.

Your coast-to-coast move will be much easier and safer with the help of professional coast to coast movers.


Plan Your Budget

Keep in mind, that a coast-to-coast move is going to be expensive. There are many factors that tie into the overall cost.

The average coast-to-coast move costs about $14,000. A large portion of this price comes from transportation which is around $8,000 to $12,000 depending on your new location and if you use a truck rental service.

The best way to reduce these expenses is to gather multiple quotes from different truck rental companies if you are choosing to do the move yourself or professional moving companies. Also, if you can, try to move during the off-season, which is winter. During this time, moving companies sometimes offer discounts.


Hire A Moving Company

As explained earlier in the article, hiring a professional moving company is the best route to go. Remember, when hiring a moving company, research different companies, compare quotes, and check reviews and ratings.

Here are some benefits of hiring a professional moving company.

  • Peace of Mind: Hiring professional movers helps keep your mind calm because they are the experts and you can rest assured that your belongings will be kept safe during the move. Moving companies also provide insurance so if anything does happen, your items are covered.
  • Save Time and Money: Professional movers help you save time since you don’t have to do all the heavy lifting and work. They take care of all of that for you. Also, they can be more affordable than renting a truck or multiple trucks and taking them coast to coast. Another surprise is that most professional moving companies can even store your furniture while you find a house or an apartment.

Declutter Your Home

Before you start packing, it’s best to declutter your home. This is how you can save money during the move since you would have less to pack. You will also save time packing and unpacking! Here are some tips.

  • Go Through Each Room: As you are going through each room and packing, make a pile of all the things you come across that you don’t need or want.
  • Donate or Sell: Go through the pile of all the things you don’t want or need and decide if you want to donate them or sell them. You can go to thrift stores or use online marketplaces to sell your belongings.
  • Organize: As you are going through your belongings, organize them by categories like bedroom, kitchen, and clothing. This will make packing and unpacking easier.

Time To Pack

When packing for a long-distance move like coast-to-coast, it is very important to pack your items carefully. Packing delicate and valuable items separately in boxes from less fragile items is the best way to reduce the risk of damage or loss during the move. Sometimes, if it’s easier, you can ship some items through the United Postal Service.

Start by making a list of what needs to be packed, such as china, clothes, and closets. Pack them neatly into boxes and label them. Don’t forget to use bubble wrap or wrapping paper to keep these items safe in the box. If you are moving furniture, be sure to use soft padding or old sheets to wrap them. Don’t wrap anything too tight!

If you are hiring professional movers to pack, feel free to skip this step! Sit back and relax as the movers do the work for you!


Be On Your Way

Now it’s time to be on your way to your new location! Keep in mind that getting to your new home won’t be easy. You need to decide whether you are going to drive or fly. Both have their pros and cons.

When driving, remember you will have to pay for gas, food, and hotels since the drive from coast-to-coast will take several days.

Booking a flight is very convenient since it will take a couple hours to get to your destination compared to a couple of days. The only con is that the flight ticket may be expensive and more expensive if your whole family is traveling with you.


We Have Your Back

If you are deciding to move, we got you! Whether the move is local or long distance, we can assist you. Moving Feedback compares independent and big-brand movers, so you get the best price at the tip of your fingers. All you need to do is tell us what you want and we will do the work for you.

We also provide helpful tips and tricks to make your move easier. Check out our blog for more information about moving