As soon as you have your new address, submit a change of address form with the U.S. Postal Service; either online or by mail. You may request a change of address up to three months in advance, and getting it out of the way early means one less thing to worry about. The U.S. Postal Service will forward your mail, but it is your responsibility to update your contact information with all of your accounts. Make a list of the banks and companies that you do business with and their customer service numbers. When you arrive in your new residence, take out the list and call the companies to update your address.
Go through your things and make a pile of all your important documents: Social Security cards, birth certificates, passports, bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, medical records, insurance-policy information, checkbooks and school records. Put these things in a labeled accordion file folder to bring with you. When you move, you will need to have these documents handy to set up new accounts and transfer services.
Moving cross-country is a big undertaking, so consider your options thoroughly before deciding how you are going to transport all of your things. Get quotes from moving companies and van-rental agencies. If you are in a financial position to hire full-service movers, it will remove a significant amount of stress from the situation. If you hire movers to take care of the hard work, you can relax and enjoy the travel to your new home. If you are planning to rent a van, make sure to factor in the cost of gas, your time, hotels and additional insurance. Whatever you decide, keep the receipts from your moving expenses in your accordion file. If you are moving because of a new job, your moving expenses are likely to be tax deductible.
Take advantage of the move to get rid of clutter. Weeding the junk out of your belongings will make both packing and unpacking much easier. If you are moving during the summer, hold a garage sale and net some extra cash for the move. You can also donate your unwanted items and clothing to the Salvation Army or another local charity.
If you are hiring a mover or renting a van, the moving company will often provide you with boxes for free. If not, you can buy stacks of boxes online or ask your local grocer if they have any extra to give you. When packing, think practically. Pack a few pieces of luggage with all the items you and your family would need for a week-long vacation. Pack another bag with your important documents and any other items that you will need to access when you arrive at your new home. Keep these with you in your car so they are secure and accessible. All boxes should be clearly labeled with the room they are destined for and a general description of the contents.
