Planning for a big move in the near future? Overwhelmed by everything? Check out this list of the top 4 tips for moving across the country!

While fewer Americans move these days, around 10 percent still make the decision each year.

For many, this means a long-distance move that comes with the stress of figuring out how to transport all their items, learning about their new neighborhood, and getting their documents updated.

Whether your cross-country move is due to a new job, family, or just a desire to start fresh, you should start planning early before you decide to just start packing up. Doing so will save you time, money, and a lot of stress!

Try these four tips for moving across the country.

1. Carefully Choose What to Bring With You

To reduce your moving costs and avoid cluttering up your new place, you need to really cut down on your belongings.

When preparing for a cross-country move, think about which large items to take. For example, if you have an old car and plan to fly to your new home, paying a large shipping fee may not make sense. You'll also want to think about items like furniture and pianos.

In any case, go through all your stuff and donate or sell unneeded items.

2. Learn More About Your New Neighborhood Beforehand

One of the best tips for moving cross country is to get to know your new area in advance. This can mean either visiting before the move or doing careful research online.

For example, you may want to research the job market so that you're prepared to find employment once you move. You'll also want to know about local stores, doctors and dentists, government offices, and schools.

You can see this page for more advice.

3. Pack Your Items Strategically

Depending on which mode of transport you use to move, you may be separated from most of your items for a long time. This means that you need to carefully consider which items to take with you versus those the movers will handle.

While putting away kitchen items, seasonal items, and toys makes sense, you'll want to bring important documents and personal care items with you. The last thing you'll want is to get stuck on a delayed flight to your new home and not have the basics.

4. Find the Right Moving Company

Hiring a great moving company is some of the best moving across country advice when you want your items transported safely and conveniently. While a local move might be easy with a few friends and a truck, a DIY long-distance move can bring more headaches than it's worth.

For the easiest experience, you can hire a distance moving company that packs, loads, and unloads your items. Just check that they have good reviews and will insure your items. You'll also want to make sure they arrive at your new place when you will! Our recommendation is CarsArrive Auto Relocation.

Use These Tips for Moving Across the Country

While a long-distance move likely won't be stress-free, using this advice to plan can allow for a smoother transition.

You can also try even more tips for moving across the country. These include staying in close contact with your movers, updating your driver's license, and handing the address change process.

Our blog has even more helpful advice for your move. Be sure to go check out our other posts.