Moving across the state may be easier than a cross-country move, but that doesn't mean that the process is simple. These interstate moving tips will help you to sidestep some of the biggest obstacles you'll be facing during your move. Whether you're moving out of an apartment or out of a home, these suggestions will come in handy.

1. Don't Wait to Start Planning

When you're moving a long distance, you'll need more time to prepare. That's why you'll want to start thinking about your move as soon as you can. You should be evaluating moving companies, looking at potential moving dates, and taking other steps to get ready for your move, even if your move is months away.

If you plan your move ahead of time, you can ensure that you have time for the tasks you need to take care of. You'll be able to create a moving schedule and handle everything without having to rush.

2. Get Rid of As Much As You Can

How much do you need to bring with you when you move? Now is the perfect time to assess your belongings and think about what you love. Moving furniture, a long distance can be costly. In some cases, it may be cheaper to replace your furniture than to bring it with you.

If you want to get rid of items that are still in good condition, you may find a buyer for those items. You can put that money towards your moving budget so that your move won't put such a strain on your wallet.

3. Work With the Right Movers

If you're going to be hiring movers, a website about long distance moving can help you out. You'll want to make sure you're working with professionals you can depend on. You should find a company with fair rates that offers the services that you're looking for.

If you need speciality moving services, such as help moving a piano, you should try to find a company that can provide those kinds of services. If you're able to work with just one company, you'll be able to spend less in total.

4. Have a Labeling System

It's important to keep all your belongings organized when you're packing them up. It's smart to label everything, but you may also want to create another system that will make it easier for you to figure out which box goes where.

One inexpensive system you may want to try is to use colored stickers to specify which room a box belongs to. Assign a different color to each room in the house. That way, you'll be able to see where a box goes even when you can't read it.

5. Protect Your Things As You Pack Them

It's not uncommon for items to get broken during a move. You'll want to take the right precaution so that fragile items like glassware arrive in one piece—every item you back should be wrapped up so that it will stay secure.

Tissue paper can be a great way to pack fragile items, as can bubble wrap. You should try to avoid using newspaper since the ink can bleed onto your glass. If you don't have the right packing supplies, you can keep your items safe by wrapping them in socks or other clothing items.

Consider getting special storage bags for specific items. Say, that expensive six-foot Christmas tree should go into one of these upright tree bags to safely store it during your move. Delicate glass ornaments, porcelains, and ceramics should go into padded storage bags with dividers to prevent them from bumping and getting chipped. Using the right organizers can save your items and make it much easier to pack and unpack later.

6. Watch the Weight of the Boxes You're Packing

Boxes can get heavy quickly, especially when you're packing up items like books. That's why you'll want to make sure you monitor the weight of the boxes that are being packed up. If a box feels like it's starting to get heavy, you should stop packing new items in that box.

It's best to use small boxes when packing up heavy items. Cardboard boxes are durable, but they can break if you fill them with too many items, and that can cause huge problems for you.

7. Think About Your Pets

If you have pets, you'll want to think ahead and make sure you have a plan for them on moving day. It's common to prop open doors when you're moving, and that can put cats and dogs in danger. You may want to have your pets stay with someone else when you're moving. If this isn't an option for you, you should use pet gates to keep your pet safe.

You'll also want to pack up the items that your pet will need immediately in a separate bag. You should make sure you find pet food, toys, and other essential items without having to dig through lots of boxes.

It's essential to be prepared for a move, which is why these interstate moving tips will come in handy. Don't take chances when it comes to your move. Plan ahead, follow the right advice and do everything you can to avoid problems.

**This is a collaborative post.