Moving to a new city or state is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s also stressful. With a long list of tasks and tight deadlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The best way to reduce moving stress? Hiring a professional moving company can take care of everything from packing to unloading.

If a full-service move isn’t in your budget, creating a detailed checklist can make your long distance move much smoother. Follow these 8 essential tips to stay organized and stress-free.

1. Bring Your Checklist On-the-Go

Create a Moving Checklist

Your checklist will be your moving day lifesaver, so always have it within reach. The easiest way? Use your smartphone. Download a checklist app that syncs across devices, so you can update or check tasks on the go. Everything you need for your move will be right at your fingertips.

2. Take Inventory of Your Belongings

It might not be the most exciting task, but taking inventory is crucial. It helps you create a budget, declutter, and pack efficiently. Plus, it ensures nothing gets lost during the move. Keep your inventory handy to track your items from start to finish.

3. Declutter to Cut Moving Costs

The less you move, the more you save. Go through your belongings and separate what you really need from what you can sell, donate, or discard. Not only will this save money on moving costs, but it also gives you a fresh start in your new home.

4. Be Aware of Timing to Stay on Schedule

Book your moving company as early as possible, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date. Packing is often the biggest time drain, so plan ahead:

  • Pack non-essentials at least two weeks before moving day.
  • Pack everyday items about a week before.
  • Prepare an essentials bag during the final days.
  • Label boxes clearly to make unpacking easier.

5. Keep Essentials with You

Long distance moves can take days to deliver all your items. Pack an “open-first” box with things you’ll need immediately—towels, bedding, dishes, and basic cookware. Keep a separate essentials bag for toiletries, clothes, valuables, and personal electronics.

6. Make Arrangements for Children and Pets

Make Arrangements for Children and Pets

Moving day can be chaotic, and little ones or pets can easily get stressed. Arrange for babysitters, daycare, or trusted family/friends to keep them safe and calm while you focus on the move.

7. Update Your Personal Information

Before you move, make sure to update your address with the post office, driver’s license, registration, utilities, and other important services. Filing a Change of Address (COA) a couple of weeks in advance will save you headaches later.

8. Refer to Your Checklist Often

Your moving checklist isn’t set in stone—it will evolve as new tasks pop up. Write down everything, even small reminders like “buy coffee” or “don’t forget chargers.” Staying organized will keep the moving process under control and less stressful.

Planning a long distance move can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Movers Not Shakers, trusted long distance movers in New York, make every step of your move smooth and stress-free—from packing to unloading. Let our experienced team handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home. Contact us today and make your next move easier than ever.