A cross-country move is one of the biggest transitions you can make—whether you're relocating for a new job, a fresh start, or to be closer to family. Unlike a local move, long-distance relocations require more planning, more logistics, and more attention to detail. The good news? With the right preparation and a trusted moving partner like Joyce Van Lines, you can make your cross-country move smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Here’s what you need to know before hitting the road to your new home across the country.

1. Start Planning Early

Timing is everything when it comes to long-distance moves. Begin planning at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during peak season (spring and summer). Booking early ensures availability with your preferred moving company and gives you time to organize, declutter, and handle all the logistical tasks that come with an interstate move.

At Joyce Van Lines, we help clients create a customized moving plan from day one—so no detail is overlooked and no deadline is missed.

2. Choose a Reputable, Licensed Moving Company

Cross-country moving isn’t something to leave to chance. You need a fully licensed, insured, and experienced interstate moving company—not a broker or a company that subcontracts your move.

Joyce Van Lines is a nationally recognized, full-service carrier with its own fleet of trucks and professionally trained crews. Our team manages every step of your move directly—from packing and loading to transport and final delivery—so you always know who’s handling your belongings.

3. Declutter Before You Pack

The more you move, the more it costs. A cross-country relocation is the perfect opportunity to downsize and declutter your belongings. Donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need so you’re not paying to move things you won’t use.

Need help organizing? Joyce Van Lines offers packing and pre-move planning services to help streamline what goes and what stays.

4. Protect Your Valuables and Documents

Important documents, heirlooms, electronics, and medications should always travel with you—not in the moving truck. Set aside a personal essentials box for anything you’ll need during the trip or immediately upon arrival.

For high-value items that require extra care, Joyce Van Lines offers white-glove moving services and custom crating to ensure the safest transport possible.

5. Understand Delivery Windows and Transit Time

Unlike a local move, cross-country relocations often come with a delivery window instead of an exact delivery date. Factors like distance, weather, road conditions, and route scheduling can affect timing. A professional mover will give you a realistic delivery range and keep you updated throughout the process.

Joyce Van Lines is known for on-time delivery and open communication. Our team stays in contact from pickup to delivery so you always know where your belongings are and when to expect them.

6. Prepare for Your New Location

Before arriving at your new home, make sure utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) are set up and ready to go. If you're moving to a different climate or time zone, prepare for those changes in advance. Knowing the neighborhood, commute, and local resources will help make your arrival feel a little less overwhelming.

We also offer short- and long-term storage options in case your new home isn’t move-in ready when your items arrive.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Cross-Country Move Simple and Stress-Free

Moving across the country is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. With the right team and a detailed plan, you can relocate with confidence and peace of mind. Joyce Van Lines has decades of experience handling complex, long-distance moves with professionalism and care.

Ready to plan your cross-country move?  Contact Joyce Van Lines today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us take the stress out of your long-distance relocation.