Relocating large items across state lines can be an overwhelming task, filled with logistical challenges and risks. Whether you’re moving hefty furniture, bulky equipment, or a prized vehicle, every step requires careful thought and planning. One mistake can lead to damage or even loss of valuable property. To ensure that your interstate move goes smoothly, it’s essential to follow best practices for handling large items while avoiding common pitfalls.

This guide will walk you through the essential do’s and don’ts to guarantee a successful relocation for your larger possessions—including important tips for shipping vehicles across state lines.

Image Credit Goes to FreePik

Do’s:

1. Do Plan Ahead

The most critical element of a successful interstate move is thorough planning. Large items, like furniture and machinery, require specific care to prevent damage during transport. Start early by creating a moving plan, which includes gathering supplies, scheduling movers, and reviewing insurance options.

• Tip: Create a checklist of every large item, measure its dimensions, and ensure it can fit through doorways and hallways both at your current location and the new one.

2. Do Hire Professional Movers

Relocating large items is not a DIY task. Professional movers have the right tools, equipment, and expertise to handle items safely. From grand pianos to sectional sofas, specialized movers can handle the packing, loading, and unloading while mitigating the risks of damage.

• For Vehicle Shipping: If you’re moving a car, be sure to hire a company that specializes in vehicle transport. Look for services that offer both open and enclosed transport, depending on your needs. Open transport is cost-effective but exposes the car to the elements, while enclosed transport is ideal for protecting luxury or vintage vehicles.

3. Do Insure Your Items

It’s important to protect your valuable possessions, including cars, by insuring them during transport. Even with professional help, accidents can happen. Insurance offers peace of mind, covering potential damages during the move. Check with your moving company for their insurance policies or purchase additional coverage from a third-party provider.

• Tip: Be clear on what your insurance covers and understand the claims process before the move begins.

4. Do Label Fragile and Delicate Items

Even though you’re moving large items, some may still be delicate. Items like glass tabletops, large mirrors, or fragile artwork should be appropriately labeled to prevent mishandling. This ensures that movers know to treat these objects with extra care.

• Tip: Use visible labels, tape, or stickers to mark fragile items, and inform movers in advance about which items need special attention.

5. Do Prepare Your Car for Shipping

If you’re shipping a vehicle across state lines, proper preparation is crucial. Remove all personal belongings from the car, clean it thoroughly, and take photos of its current condition. These photos will serve as proof in case there’s any damage during transport. Also, leave only about a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle to reduce its weight.

• Tip: Disable any alarms in the car before shipping and check the tire pressure for a smoother ride during transit.

6. Do Research Legal Requirements

When moving large items, including vehicles, it’s essential to research any legal regulations that may apply. Some states have specific rules about moving vehicles, machinery, or even furniture, and crossing state lines might require permits. For vehicles, you may also need to look into state registration or inspection requirements after relocation.

• Tip: Check with the Department of Transportation (DOT) in both your current and destination state to ensure compliance.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Underestimate the Size and Weight

Large items may seem manageable at first glance, but their size and weight can cause serious complications during the moving process. Whether it’s fitting through narrow doorways or safely loading the item onto a truck, underestimating these factors can lead to costly damage or delays.

• Tip: Always measure doorways, elevators, and staircases before the move to ensure your large items can pass through without issue. If necessary, disassemble items beforehand.

2. Don’t Skimp on Packing Materials

Packing materials are a critical part of protecting your large items during transport. Using low-quality materials or insufficient padding can lead to damage. For heavy or delicate items, invest in high-quality materials like moving blankets, bubble wrap, and custom crates to ensure they stay safe throughout the journey.

• Tip: If you’re shipping a car, consider getting a car cover for additional protection during the move, especially if you’re using open transport.

3. Don’t Forget to Document the Condition of Your Items

Before moving large items, especially vehicles, take photos and videos to document their condition. This provides you with proof in case you need to file a damage claim. Walk around your car or other large items and note any existing scratches, dents, or wear and tear.

• Tip: Keep a copy of this documentation both digitally and in hard copy format for easier access when needed.

4. Don’t Ignore Safety Precautions

Moving large, bulky items can pose serious safety risks. Whether you’re handling the items yourself or hiring professionals, it’s important to prioritize safety. Don’t lift heavy items without proper equipment, and ensure movers use dollies, ramps, and straps to avoid accidents.

• Tip: If you’re moving the items yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help, and always use proper lifting techniques to prevent injury.

5. Don’t Overlook the Costs

Interstate moves, especially for large items like cars or furniture, can get expensive. It’s important to get multiple quotes from moving companies and compare their services. Some companies may charge additional fees for bulky or specialty items, so clarify all costs upfront.

• Tip: Ask about hidden fees, such as fuel surcharges, storage fees, or expedited delivery charges, and factor these into your budget.

Image Credit Goes to AutoStar Transport Express

The Role of Auto Transport in Interstate Relocation

When relocating, transporting your vehicle across state lines can be one of the most complex and costly aspects of the move. While driving the car yourself might seem like an option, this can add significant wear and tear to the vehicle, especially over long distances. Professional auto transport services are designed to handle this efficiently and safely. Here’s what you need to know about car shipping:

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Service

Not all car shipping services are the same, and choosing the right interstate car shipping company One can make a big difference in the safety and timing of your vehicle’s arrival. Research companies that specialize in auto transport and check their customer reviews. Make sure they offer the type of service you need—whether it’s open transport for cost-effective shipping or enclosed transport for high-end vehicles that need protection from weather and road debris.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport

• Open Transport: This is the more affordable option, but your car will be exposed to the elements. It’s a good choice for standard vehicles.
• Enclosed Transport: This method is pricier but offers superior protection. It’s ideal for luxury, antique, or classic cars.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

Preparing your vehicle for transport is crucial to ensuring a smooth process. Remove all personal items from the car, as auto transport shipping companies generally won’t take responsibility for them. Clean your car inside and out so you can easily identify any pre-existing damage. Finally, make sure you leave only a quarter tank of gas to keep the car lightweight during transport. Explore a blog on how to ship your car for more in depth review.

Final Thoughts

Interstate relocation, particularly for large items, involves numerous factors, from hiring professional movers to ensuring the safety of your belongings. By following the do’s and don’ts outlined here, you can make the process smoother and less stressful.

For car shipping, choosing the right service, preparing your vehicle, and understanding the logistics are key to a successful move. Whether you’re relocating across a few states or moving coast-to-coast, having a solid plan and the right resources can make all the difference in ensuring that your large items arrive in perfect condition.