Real Moving Checklist Before Your Long Distance Movers Arrive
- American National Movers
- Oct 21
- 6 min read
If you’re preparing for a long distance move, staying organized is everything. Many people underestimate how much there is to do — until it’s too late. At American National Movers, we recommend starting early and following a simple, structured long distance moving checklist like this:
8+ Weeks Before Moving:
Set your moving budget.
This is where most people go wrong. Don't just focus on the cost of long-distance movers—include other expenses such as travel, lodging, meals, and storage. Long-distance moving comes with hidden costs, so leave a small cushion for unexpected expenses.
Research and book your movers.
Avoid waiting until the last minute to contact long distance moving companies. Last-minute bookings usually result in higher costs and limited availability. The best movers—especially reputable national brands—book up fast, so secure your date early to avoid being stuck with a company that's not reliable.
Notify essential contacts (if applicable).
If your current bank, insurance provider, or utility company also operates in your new state, start updating your address and account details. If they don't, create a list of new providers in your destination state instead. Setting these up early prevents service gaps and unnecessary stress once you arrive.
6 Weeks Before Moving:
Declutter and purge.
Before you start packing, take time to sort through your belongings. If something isn’t worth the cost of moving, sell it, donate it, or leave it behind. Long distance movers charge by weight or cubic feet, so every unnecessary item adds up—especially large, bulky furniture.
Create a detailed inventory and label your boxes.
Make a list of everything you’re taking with you — particularly large furniture, electronics, and fragile items. If you’re packing yourself, clearly label boxes (e.g., clothes, fragile, electronics). This helps your movers organize efficiently and reduces the chance of damage. A detailed inventory also protects you in case you need to file a claim later.
Order packing supplies and start packing.
The sooner you start packing, the better. Aim to finish packing at least two weeks before your move. Packing often takes longer than expected, especially for larger homes or if you’re short on help.
Start using up perishable items.
If you’re not taking pantry goods, frozen food, or cleaning supplies, start using them now to avoid waste. Movers won’t ship perishables, aerosols, or hazardous materials, so plan accordingly.
Notify schools and medical offices (if applicable).
If you have children, request transcripts early so they’re ready for enrollment in your new district. For adults, schedule any final appointments and transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new address.
3–4 Weeks Before Moving:
Confirm all details with your moving company.
By this point, you should have already chosen your movers and paid your deposit. Confirm your pickup and delivery dates, review your inventory list, and update it if needed. Ask about your estimated delivery window and make sure all details are clearly written in your quote.
Budget for hotels, if needed.
Depending on the company and service level you choose, your shipment can take anywhere from three to seventeen days to arrive. Many customers—especially seniors, professionals, and families—prefer staying in a hotel or short-term rental rather than waiting in an empty home with no furniture or essentials. If your movers offer a delivery window, plan for at least a few extra nights of lodging.
Booking your flight (if applicable).
If you’re flying, don’t schedule your flight for the same day as your movers’ pickup. Unexpected delays can occur, and it’s important to stay available to supervise loading. Ideally, fly out the next day or once your movers have confirmed they’re officially on the road.
Driving to your new home (if applicable).
If you’re driving, coordinate your route so you arrive close to your movers’ estimated delivery window—but not too early. If your items are still in transit, prepare to stay in a comfortable hotel or Airbnb for a few nights. Book refundable or flexible lodging in case the delivery schedule shifts.
Finish packing non-essentials.
Start with rooms and items you use the least—guest rooms, seasonal clothing, decorations, or storage closets. Label boxes by both room and contents so unpacking at your new home is simple and organized.
Handle utilities and subscriptions.
Transfer or cancel utilities at your current home and set up new accounts for your destination. Double-check activation dates for electricity, internet, and water so you’re not moving into a dark or uncomfortable home.
Prepare important documents.
Gather personal records such as IDs, medical files, school paperwork, and moving contracts. Keep these in a clearly labeled folder or small box that travels with you—not on the moving truck. Movers can replace furniture, but not critical documents.
Moving Day: What to Expect and What to Check
Be ready before your movers arrive.
Have all boxes sealed, labeled, and easily accessible. Keep your essentials bag and important documents separate — ideally in your car or with you. Movers will focus on loading everything quickly, so it’s best not to have personal items mixed in.
Walk the crew through your home.
When your movers arrive, do a quick walkthrough with the foreman. Long distance moving companies conduct a walkthrough to identify additional items not mentioned on the paperwork and fragile items needing extra care. The clearer you are, the smoother and faster the process will go.
Review your paperwork carefully.
Before the movers start loading, they’ll ask you to sign a Bill of Lading and an inventory sheet. Double-check that the estimate type (binding, non-binding, or BNTE) and price match what you agreed on and that your pickup and delivery addresses are correct. Once you sign this agreement, you cannot change your mind or renegotiate charges, so never sign blank documents.
Stay available during the move.
Plan to stay on-site for the entire pickup. Movers may have questions about access, items, or disassembly, so it's best to watch how they package and handle your items. If you have a large shipment, the process could take several hours, so set aside your day for it.
Take photos before the truck leaves.
It’s smart to take quick pictures of the condition of furniture and boxes before loading, as well as the truck’s interior once everything is packed. This serves as proof of condition in case of disputes or claims later.
Confirm next steps.
Before your movers depart, ask for the driver’s name, contact information, and truck number. Confirm the estimated delivery date and any balance due at delivery. This ensures you can stay in touch and track progress during transport.
Delivery Day & Unloading
Stay organized on delivery day.
When your movers arrive, cross-check your inventory list as each item is unloaded, and don’t rush through this process — it’s your chance to note any missing or damaged pieces before signing off.
Direct your movers as they unload.
Show the crew where each item belongs. Labeling your boxes ahead of time will make this step much easier. Keep fragile or high-value items in a designated area so you can inspect them closely later.
Inspect before signing the final paperwork.
Once unloading is done, your movers will ask for your signature on the Bill of Lading and delivery receipt. Only sign when you’ve confirmed that everything on your inventory has arrived and you’re satisfied with the service. If something is missing or damaged, note it clearly on the paperwork before signing.
Tip and thank your movers (optional but appreciated).
If your crew did a good job, consider tipping them for their effort, especially if the move involved stairs, long carries, or large furniture. Even a small gesture goes a long way — professional movers remember appreciative customers.
Conclusion: Simplify Your Long Distance Move
Preparing for a long distance move doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just takes structure, timing, and the right help. By planning early, confirming details, and staying organized before your movers arrive, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and protect your belongings.
At American National Movers, we specialize in affordable long distance moving without the hidden fees or unreliable delivery windows. Whether you’re moving a studio apartment or a four-bedroom home, our goal is to make your move smooth, transparent, and on schedule.
If you’re getting ready for a big move, don’t wait until the last minute.
Call (800) 245-7967 or get a free quote online today to see why so many customers choose us for their out-of-state moves.
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