Long Distance Moving Checklist
Holy $#!% I'm Moving Again: The Only Long Distance Checklist You'll Need Before You Lose Your Mind
Throw Away Every Other Long Distance Move Checklist You've Seen And Use This One Instead
So you're moving across the country?
Again?
Don't panic!
This Holy $#!% I'm Moving Again long distance checklist is about to save your sanity, your relationships, and maybe even your back.
Moving long distance isn't just about throwing stuff in boxes and hoping for the best.
It's a complex operation that can break your spirit (and your favorite lamp) if you don't have a plan.
But with Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, you'll get through this move without losing your mind.
Look, we know moving sucks.
It's why you're reading this right now, possibly on the verge of a meltdown.
But take a deep breath. Whooosa!
You've found the only long distance moving checklist you'll ever need.
We'll break down every step of the process in simple terms, based on our experience helping thousands of frazzled customers just like you.
Ready to make this whole nightmare a little less awful?
Let's get started!
Two Months Before Moving: The "I've Got Plenty of Time" Phase (Spoiler: You Don't)
You think two months is a long time, but it'll vanish faster than your desire to ever move again.
Here's what needs to happen now:
Decide If You're Hiring Professionals or Ruining Your Friendships
Weigh the real costs of DIY vs. professional movers. Let's be real. Moving yourself might seem cheaper, but is it worth the physical pain, emotional trauma, and Facebook friends who suddenly "can't make it" to your housewarming party?
Research professional moving companies. Professional movers like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving exist for a reason. We handle the heavy lifting, logistics, and stress so you don't have to. Plus, we won't "accidentally" drop your box labeled "VERY FRAGILE FAMILY HEIRLOOMS" like your college buddy might.
Book your movers early. Got questions about hiring movers? Our founder Jae Burnham says, "Most people wait until the last minute to book movers and end up paying premium rates or getting stuck with second-rate companies. Book early and save both money and headaches."
Get your free quote today. Call us today at (517) 948-0894 for a free quote. Your back will thank you.
Create Your Master Moving Budget (And Then Add 30%)
Create a detailed moving budget. Moving always costs more than you think. Always. Here's what to include:
Moving company costs
Packing supplies
Travel expenses (gas, hotels, meals)
Security deposits and first month's rent
Utility setup fees
New furniture or appliances needed
Emergency "I forgot about this" fund
Build in a buffer. That emergency fund? It's not optional. Something always comes up. Always.
Start Gathering Moving Quotes NOW
Request quotes from multiple companies. Don't wait until the last minute to find a moving company. The good ones (like us!) book up fast, especially during peak season.
Know what questions to ask movers. When comparing quotes, remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. Ask these questions:
Is the quote binding or non-binding?
What insurance coverage is included?
Are there any potential extra fees?
What's their policy on delayed delivery?
Do they have good reviews from real customers?
Choose transparency. At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing. No surprise fees, no hidden costs—just honest work at fair prices. Got questions? Call (517) 948-0894 to speak with our team.
Research Your New Home Area
Scout out your new neighborhood virtually. Before you move across the country, learn about your new neighborhood:
Where are the nearest grocery stores?
Which internet providers serve the area?
How's the public transportation?
Where's the closest hospital?
What are the crime rates?
Where are the good schools (if you have kids)?
Make a "first week" survival map. This research will make your first weeks in your new place way less stressful.
Take Inventory: What Stays, What Goes, What Gets Burned in a Ceremonial Goodbye Ritual
Start the great purge. Now's the time to be ruthless. Do you really need those jeans from college that haven't fit in a decade? That pasta maker you used exactly once? The collection of free koozies from events you don't even remember attending?
Apply the three-question test to everything you own. For every item, ask yourself:
Have I used this in the past year?
Would I buy this again today?
Is it worth the cost of moving it?
Say goodbye to the "no" pile. If the answer to any of these is "no," it's time to say goodbye.
Calculate the cost of moving vs. replacing. Jae from Mr. BigStuff recommends: "For every item you're on the fence about, calculate its 'cost per pound' to move. That $50 bookshelf suddenly seems less worth keeping when it costs $100 to transport."
Start Collecting Free Boxes Like They're Gold (Because They Are)
Begin your box hunt. Boxes are expensive! Start collecting now:
Ask local stores (especially liquor stores—those boxes are sturdy!)
Check Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle
Ask friends who've recently moved
Check with your office—copy paper boxes are perfect for books
Or just let the pros handle it. Skip the hassle and get all your moving supplies from Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving. We offer competitively priced moving kits with everything you need, delivered right to your door. Just call (517) 948-0894 to order.
Six Weeks Before Moving: The "This Is Getting Real" Phase
The countdown is officially on.
Time to kick things into high gear.
Start Packing Non-Essential Items
Begin boxing up rarely-used items. Remember all those seasonal items and things you rarely use? Pack 'em up now:
Holiday decorations
Off-season clothes
Books you're not currently reading
Extra kitchen gadgets
Sports equipment
Sentimental items and keepsakes
Create a logical labeling system. Label each box clearly with:
What room it belongs in
General contents
Whether it contains fragile items
A box number (keep a master list of what's in each box)
Use color-coding for efficiency. Pro tip from Jae Burnham: "Use colored tape to color-code boxes by room. It makes unpacking so much easier when movers can quickly see where each box belongs."
Notify Everyone About Your Move
Make your official address change notifications. Time to start spreading the news:
Landlord/property management (give official notice)
Utilities (schedule disconnection and connection at new place)
Insurance companies (auto, home, renters)
Banks and credit card companies
Subscription services
Magazine subscriptions
Online shopping accounts
Set up USPS mail forwarding. Don't forget to file a change of address with USPS about two weeks before your move.
Make Special Arrangements for Special Items
Plan for your specialty items. Some things need extra planning:
Pets (vet records, travel arrangements, etc.)
Plants (check if they can legally cross state lines)
Valuable art or antiques
Musical instruments
Medical equipment
Firearms (check state laws at your destination)
Consult with moving experts about valuable items. At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we know how to handle your special items with care. Call us at (517) 948-0894 to discuss any concerns you have about moving unique or valuable possessions.
Start Using Up Stuff You Can't Move
Begin the "eat what you have" challenge. Now's the time to start that pantry clean-out challenge:
Perishable foods
Frozen items
Open containers of cleaning supplies
Flammable items like propane or paint
Things that might explode or leak during transit
Donate what you can't use. Get creative with meals using what you have, or donate unopened non-perishables to a local food bank.
One Month Before Moving: The "No Turning Back Now" Phase
You're officially in the countdown.
One month to go!
Book Your Travel Arrangements
Secure your personal transportation. If you're flying to your new home, book tickets now. If driving, plan your route, hotel stops, and have your car serviced.
Plan for kids and pets during travel. If you have children or pets, make special arrangements to keep them comfortable during the journey.
Prepare a moving day survival kit. Pack a separate bag with essentials for your first day/night in your new home:
Toiletries and medications
Change of clothes
Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, scissors)
Phone chargers
Snacks and water
Paper towels and toilet paper
Basic cleaning supplies
Sheets and towels
First aid kit
Confirm All Moving Details
Double-check with your moving company. Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894 to confirm all details:
Pickup date and time
Delivery window
Payment details
Any special instructions
Confirm your new housing details. Make sure you have:
Keys (or plan to get them)
Access codes if needed
Utility setup appointments
Permission to park a moving truck
Arrange for help at both ends. Even with professional movers, you might need extra hands for certain tasks. Line up friends or family now.
Ramp Up Your Packing Efforts
Pack at least one box per day. You'd be surprised how much you can get done in small, consistent efforts.
Take photos of electronics setups. Before disconnecting TVs, computers, or sound systems, take photos of how everything is connected to make setup easier.
Use clothes to wrap fragile items. Save on bubble wrap by using socks, t-shirts, and towels to protect breakables.
Keep a "Do Not Pack" zone. Designate an area for items that shouldn't go into boxes (important documents, daily medications, travel clothes).
Tie Up Loose Ends At Current Home
Begin deep cleaning areas you've already packed. This saves you from having to do it all at once.
Schedule carpet cleaning or repairs. If needed for your security deposit.
Return library books and borrowed items. And collect anything you've lent to others.
Cancel or transfer local services. Gym memberships, lawn service, cleaning service, etc.
Two Weeks Before Moving: The "Full Panic Mode" Phase
Things are getting serious.
Your living space is probably a maze of boxes by now, and you're questioning all your life choices.
Keep pushing forward!
Finish Most of Your Packing
Pack all but daily essentials. By now, about 90% of your belongings should be in boxes.
Create a detailed inventory. List every box and major item that will be loaded onto the moving truck.
Take photos of valuable items. Document the condition of expensive items before they're moved.
Dispose of hazardous materials. Find your local hazardous waste disposal facility for paint, chemicals, batteries, etc.
Make Final Preparations at Your New Home
Schedule utility activations. Make sure electricity, water, internet, etc. will be working when you arrive.
Arrange for any necessary repairs or cleaning. Better to have these done before your stuff arrives.
If possible, measure doorways and spaces. This helps avoid nasty surprises when your furniture arrives.
Research local emergency services. Know where the nearest hospital is and have emergency numbers handy.
Take Care of Administrative Tasks
Gather all important documents. Keep these with you, not on the moving truck:
Birth certificates
Passports
Financial documents
Insurance information
Medical records
School records
Vehicle titles
Pet vaccination records
Get enough cash for the move. You'll want to have cash for tips, unexpected expenses, and emergencies.
Refill prescriptions. Get a supply that will last through the move and until you find a new pharmacy.
Collect all house keys. Make sure you have all copies to return to landlord or realtor.
One Week Before Moving: The "This Is Really Happening" Phase
You're in the final countdown!
Most of your home should be packed up, with just the essentials remaining.
Last-Minute Packing
Pack suitcases with enough clothes. Pack for at least a week, even if your move is shorter.
Prepare your "open first" boxes. These should contain what you'll need immediately at your new home:
Bathroom essentials
Kitchen basics
Bedding
Electronics and chargers
Essential tools
Cleaning supplies
Disassemble furniture that needs it. Keep hardware in labeled bags taped to the furniture pieces.
Empty, defrost, and clean appliances. Refrigerators need at least 24 hours to defrost.
Final Confirmations
Confirm details with Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving. Call (517) 948-0894 to verify everything is on track.
Double-check travel plans. Confirm hotel reservations if driving cross-country.
Set up a mail forwarding. If you haven't already, make sure USPS knows where to send your mail.
Check the weather forecast. For both your departure and arrival cities.
Pre-Move Cleaning
Start cleaning empty rooms. As each room gets emptied, give it a good cleaning.
Dust and clean furniture before moving. It's easier now than after it's in your new home.
Take photos of your empty place. Document its condition for security deposit purposes.
Moving Day: The "Holy $#!% It's Happening" Phase
Today's the big day!
Take a deep breath and remember: thousands of people move every day and survive.
You've got this.
Before the Movers Arrive
Get up early. Give yourself plenty of time for last-minute tasks.
Put together a cooler. Fill it with water bottles and snacks for everyone.
Make sure your phone is charged. And have portable chargers ready.
Secure your valuables. Keep important documents and valuables with you.
When the Movers Arrive
Walk through your home with them. Point out any items that need special care.
Clarify what's going and what's not. Make sure everyone knows what stays and what goes.
Provide clear directions. To both your current home and your destination.
Keep pets and kids out of the way. Consider having them stay with a friend during the loading process.
Final Walkthrough
Check every room, closet, and cabinet. Things often get left behind in high or hidden spaces.
Look under and behind everything. Check under appliances, inside the dishwasher, behind doors.
Turn off all lights and lock up. Leave keys as arranged with landlord or new owners.
After the Move: The "Where Did I Pack the Toilet Paper?" Phase
You've made it to your new home!
Now comes the fun of turning a space full of boxes into a livable home.
Click here for my epic 6-week, 120-point After Move Checklist.
First Day Priorities
Check for damages. Before signing the final paperwork, inspect your items for damage.
Set up your bed. After a long moving day, you'll need a good night's sleep.
Locate the bathroom essentials. Nothing worse than not being able to find toilet paper or shower supplies.
Secure your home. Change locks if necessary.
Order food delivery. You deserve it after all that work!
First Week Tasks
Unpack systematically. Start with essentials (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom) and work your way to less critical areas.
Locate the nearest grocery store. Stock up on basics for your new kitchen.
Meet your neighbors. A friendly introduction can be invaluable when you need to borrow something.
Locate emergency services. Know where to find the closest hospital, police station, and fire department.
Update your driver's license and registration. Most states require this within 30 days.
Register to vote. Another important civic task in your new community.
Find new healthcare providers. Get recommendations for doctors, dentists, and veterinarians.
Settling In
Explore your new neighborhood. Take walks or drives to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.
Find your new routines. Locate coffee shops, gyms, parks, and other places that will become part of your regular life.
Give yourself time to adjust. Moving is stressful, and it takes time to feel at home in a new place.
Celebrate your accomplishment. Moving across the country is a major life event. Acknowledge it!
Moving Nightmare Prevention Tips: Learn From Others' Mistakes
Never pack important documents in moving boxes. Keep them with you at all times.
Take photos of the inside of each box before sealing. This helps if you need to find something specific later.
Use your suitcases for heavy items like books. They're designed to be moved and have wheels!
Keep a moving journal. Write down box numbers, contents, and any issues that arise.
Measure doorways at both locations. Nothing worse than discovering your couch won't fit through the door.
Pack a separate bag with medications. Never put essential medications in moving boxes.
Label boxes on multiple sides. Not just the top, which might not be visible when stacked.
Keep small hardware in labeled bags. Tape them to the furniture they belong to.
Use plastic wrap on liquid containers. Even "sealed" bottles can leak during a move.
Have professional movers handle the big stuff. Save yourself from injury and stress by calling Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894 for a free quote. Our experienced team will make your long distance move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
The Bottom Line: You Don't Have to Lose Your Mind Moving
Moving across the country doesn't have to be the nightmare most people make it out to be.
With proper planning, professional help, and this comprehensive checklist, you can actually survive this process with your sanity intact.
At Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving, we've helped thousands of customers just like you navigate the challenges of long distance moves.
Our team of experienced professionals knows exactly how to handle every aspect of your relocation, from carefully packing your grandmother's china to safely transporting your sectional sofa across state lines.
Founded by YouTube influencer and published author Jae Burnham in January 2024, we've quickly built a reputation for excellence with over 75 five-star reviews on Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper.
We understand that you're not just moving boxes and furniture—you're moving your life.
And we treat every item with the care and respect it deserves.
Don't face this challenge alone.
Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving today at (517) 948-0894 or visit https://justthebigstuff.com to get your free quote and take the first step toward a smoother, less stressful move.
Your new adventure awaits.
Let us help you get there!
