Over the hills, and through the woods, off to your new town, you go! Moving cross-country is a big task, and when you’re on mile 352, you don’t want to suddenly remember how you forgot to pack up the old stuff in the attic. Before you get your moving truck engine started, here are some tips for your cross-country journey.

Give Yourself Extra Time 

You only get one shot to drive all of your things to the other side of the country. You don’t want to cut yourself short on time, and forget items in drawers or top shelves of the kitchen. Give yourself ample time to store everything in the truck. You may also want to plan a few days to spare for some sightseeing. It’s worth it to stop and see the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, and Carhenge.

Be Judgmental with Your Things 

Be honest with yourself. If it’s been lying around the house unused for the past five years, are you really going to use it in your new home? Probably not. Lighten your load, and get rid of those things just collecting dust, before you move it dozens of hours and hundreds of miles away.

Only Use Durable Boxes 

Your prized possessions are going to take a beating, regardless of where you’re going. You know you’re going to have to make a few sudden stops, travel along bumpy roads, and make wide turns. Make sure to wrap your things in plenty of padding, and pack them in sturdy boxes. While you’re at it, label your boxes. You’d be amazed at how much easier unpacking can be when you know this box holds ‘Kitchen bowls’ and that box holds ‘Bathroom towels’.

Have Patience 

Driving takes time. And that’s not even including traffic, red lights, and a slower moving truck speed than your turbo convertible travels. Stay calm and drive on.