The reasons for moving across the country vary as much as the people who do it. Whatever your reason, there’s usually a lot of stuff that needs to make the journey with you. Moving long distance can be logistically daunting. We’ve rounded up some tips to help you haul your goods from Point A to Point B.

Ditch as Much as Possible

Will those shelves survive the journey? Do you really need clothes you haven’t worn in three years? A long move can be a good reason to finally clear out all the clutter you’ve accumulated. Be picky, more than you would for a local move. Plus, what works in your current home may not fit or look right in your new place. If you have the time and patience, hold a garage sale to sell all the items you don’t need, or post them on the internet. Save the cash you earn for buying new furnishings for your new place.

Inventory What’s Left

Staying organized wards off so many potential headaches. You’ll have a better idea of how many boxes to get, what size you’ll need (for moving yourself, or for hiring movers), and you’ll be able to easily pinpoint anything missing when you unpack at your destination.

Pack Tightly

Movers and shippers charge by box, not weight. So it behooves you to put as many items as possible in one container. You’ll still need to be careful with your valuables, of course.

Have Fun

Try to build in some extra time and pick a route that includes a few places you’ve always wanted to see, or revisit. If you’re driving, state and national parks are good options for scenery and the chance to stretch your legs. If you’re flying, see if you can snag a long layover and treat yourself to some time in a new city.

Give It Time

You took your inventory, set your budget, packed your goods, and planned a route. However pets, children, the weather, and roadwork if you’re driving, or flight delays if you’re flying, are just a few of the things that could hamper your plans. The longer the distance and the more parts to your move, the more opportunity for delays. Build in plenty of extra time, and some extra cash, so bumps along the way don’t derail you.

Bonus

If everything goes smoothly, you’ll have extra time to relax and unpack at your destination, and maybe pamper yourself a little. You deserve it. Long-distance moves are tough.