The Ultimate List of Things to Buy When Moving Across the US

July 25, 2025Moving Tips
Michael Vaughan

Moving through the Bay Area, Michael works as a freelance writer in the moving and transportation industry.

Interstate relocation is no small feat, and having the right essentials can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a smooth transition. From packing materials to personal essentials and organizational tools, there are many things to buy when moving out. To facilitate this task, we’ve created a comprehensive list of everything you need to protect your belongings, stay organized, and settle in. Let’s dive into the must-haves for your move!

Essential Supplies for Packing and Protecting Your Belongings

One of the biggest concerns when relocating interstate is ensuring your belongings arrive in perfect condition. The secret to a successful relocation lies in having the right packing materials. Whether it’s your fragile dinnerware or favorite armchair, packing and protecting everything properly is essential to prevent damage during the long journey. Here’s a comprehensive list of must-have items that will help safeguard your belongings and make the move stress-free:

  • Cardboard boxes – choose various sizes to fit different items.
  • Plastic storage bins – great for items that need extra protection from moisture or rough handling.
  • Wardrobe boxes – specially designed for hanging clothes, these keep your wardrobe intact and wrinkle-free.
  • Dish and glassware boxes – these come with dividers, making them ideal for safely packing fragile items.
  • Heavy-duty tape – it will ensure boxes remain sealed during the entire relocation.
  • Bubble wrap – ideal for wrapping delicate items like glass, ceramics, and electronics.
  • Packing paper – use it to fill gaps in boxes, wrap fragile items, or cushion plates and glassware.
  • Furniture pads and blankets – these are cushioned blankets specifically designed to protect large furniture items like sofas and tables.
  • Stretch wrap – a great tool to secure furniture and prevent drawers or doors from opening during transport.

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Organization Tools to Make the Relocation Easier

Moving to a new home can quickly become chaotic without the right level of organization. However, by preparing the right organizational tools, you’ll minimize stress and make both packing and unpacking a lot easier.

For starters, note that keeping track of what’s inside each box can save you a lot of time and confusion when unpacking after the move. Therefore, permanent markers are essential for creating a clear system that ensures you know where everything is.

On the other hand, when it comes to moving, the smallest items are often the easiest to misplace. To avoid these situations, ziplock bags are lifesavers. They’ll help you keep track of tiny objects and parts that can easily get lost in the shuffle. When you disassemble furniture or electronics, for example, simply place the screws, bolts, and other small hardware pieces into a labeled bag.

Box with the fragile sign
The importance of correct labeling is often overlooked

Basic Tools You’ll Need for Moving Day

Having a few essential tools on hand can make your relocation day much smoother. Screwdrivers, wrenches, and hammers are all must-haves for disassembling furniture, tightening bolts, or hanging items in your new home. They’ll come in handy for both packing and settling in.

*Hammer is the most commonly owned tool in the US

On top of that, a sharp utility knife or a good pair of scissors makes cutting through packing tape and breaking down boxes quick and easy, speeding up your unpacking. A tape measure is also necessary to check if large furniture pieces will fit through doorways or into rooms. A level, on the other hand, will ensure shelves and picture frames are hung evenly once you’re settled in.

Cleaning Supplies for the Old and New Home

Having the right cleaning supplies on hand is essential for both move-out and move-in cleaning. Therefore, when planning a move, stock up on the best multipurpose cleaners and disinfectants to tackle various surfaces, from countertops to floors. These will help you remove dirt, grime, and bacteria, ensuring both homes are spotless.

Whether it’s sweeping up dust or mopping up spills, having a broom, mop, and vacuum cleaner ready ensures that floors are clean and debris-free in both locations. Additionally, prepare for all the waste and recycling that comes with moving by having plenty of trash bags and recycling bins. They’ll help you quickly dispose of unwanted items and keep both homes clutter-free.

A woman cleaning the kitchen surface after an auto transport company provided all services
Cleaning supplies are a must-have in both the old and the new home

Personal Essentials to Buy for a Smooth Transition

When relocating out of state, it’s important to keep relocation essentials handy to ensure a comfortable and smooth transition. So, what do you want to have ready for the big day? For starters, having a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications will ensure you’re prepared for any small injuries that might occur.

At the same time, make sure to pack a separate bag with essential toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and deodorant. You may not be able to unpack everything right away, so having these items at hand will help you stay fresh and comfortable throughout the journey and when you first arrive. This bag should also contain necessities such as a change of clothes, chargers, important documents, and so on. 

In the end, count on the relocation day being long and exhausting. Buying some snacks like energy bars, fruit, and bottled water will keep you and your relocation crew energized and hydrated.

A girl putting stuff in her suitcase before the pick-up day
Keep all of your relocation essentials easily accessible

Things to Buy When Moving Into a New Apartment or House

Relocating across the country is an exciting opportunity to create a space that fits your lifestyle. However, to make settling in easier, it’s important to have the essentials for each room ready to go. Some of them you’ll already have packed and ready to relocate, but others you’ll need to buy before or after you move to a new city. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have things to buy when moving into a new house or apartment:

Living Room

In the living room, comfort and functionality are key. Make sure to have seating options like a couch, chairs, or recliners, as well as some good lighting to brighten up the space. You’ll also need to buy or pack a TV and, possibly, an entertainment setup. A surge protector for all your electronic devices is also needed. In the end, buying throw blankets and decorative pillows will not only add comfort but also style to your living room and personalize your new space.

Kitchen Essentials

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms, so having the right tools ready from day one is crucial. Obviously, buying or relocating a refrigerator, oven, and other large appliances is a must. Stock up on pots and pans for cooking, as well as utensils like knives, forks, and cooking tools. Don’t forget the basics like dishware, along with small appliances like a microwave or coffee maker. You’ll also need dish soap and towels to keep everything clean as you settle in.

Bedroom Items

To make your bedroom a comfortable retreat, have your bed and bedding essentials like sheets, pillows, and blankets ready for your first night. Consider investing in closet organizers like hangers, bins, and shoe racks to keep your clothes in order. Nightstands are useful for placing items like lamps or personal belongings. Don’t forget an alarm clock to help you stick to your schedule in your new space.

Bathroom Necessities

Your bathroom essentials should include towels, washcloths, and toiletries like soap, shampoo, and toothpaste to get you through the first few days. After the initial time, you’ll need to get a shower curtain and bath mat to prevent spills and keep the floor dry. Don’t overlook basics like toilet paper and hand soap – you’ll definitely want these on hand from the moment you move in. To keep everything neat, get storage baskets and organize your bathroom products.

Moving Services – A Smart Investment for Cross-Country Moves

Relocating to a new state is a major life event that comes with its own set of challenges. From organizing your belongings to ensuring everything gets safely from point A to point B, the process can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where getting professional moving services comes in. Although not a physical thing to buy, hiring movers is a smart investment that can make your cross-country relocation smoother and less stressful.

While doing everything yourself might seem like a way to save on relocation costs, it often leads to more stress, exhaustion, and potential risks. Driving a truck for hours across unfamiliar highways can be daunting, especially if you’re dealing with valuable or fragile items.

On the other hand, hiring a moving company, such as USA Auto Transport, ensures that trained experts handle the heavy lifting, loading, and transporting of your possessions. Movers have the skills and equipment to pack efficiently, reducing the risk of damage to your belongings. When it comes to cross-country moves, the peace of mind that comes with getting reliable moving services is invaluable.

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Professional Car Shipping – A Valuable Addition

When you’re relocating across the country, shipping your vehicle is often a practical solution. Driving long distances can add unnecessary wear and tear to your vehicle, not to mention the costs of fuel, lodging, and time. By partnering with a reputable auto transport company, you can avoid these headaches.

Companies like USA Auto Transport offer comprehensive services, including vehicle shipping across the country. With them, you’ll be presented with several transportation options:

  • Enclosed auto transport – this service offers the highest level of protection by transporting your car in an enclosed trailer. It is ideal for luxury or classic cars, though more expensive.
  • Open car shipping – a more cost-effective option than enclosed auto shipping. Your vehicle will be on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road conditions, but still safely attached to the carrier.
  • Door-to-door auto transport – it’s an option where the car is picked up from your current location and delivered to your new home. It’s the most convenient option but can be pricier.
  • Terminal-to-terminal car shipping – with it, you’ll drop off and pick up your car at designated shipping terminals. While less convenient, it’s a more affordable choice.

Different companies may offer a range of prices depending on factors like the type of service, the distance, and the shipping method. By gathering multiple auto transport quotes, you can better understand the cost breakdown and choose the option that aligns with your relocation budget and needs. This also helps you avoid any unexpected fees and ensures you’re working with a trusted car shipping company.

A white truck of a car shipping company
Browse through different car shipping quotes and invest in a service you trust

Our Moving Services Are the Ultimate Investment for a Stress-Free Relocation

While purchasing all the right supplies, like packing materials, organizational tools, and essentials, is crucial for a successful move, investing in professional moving services is just as important. Just like you buy the right items to protect your belongings, hiring expert movers ensures everything is handled with care, from your household items to your car. 

By choosing USA Auto Transport, you’ll entrust your relocation to professionals with years of experience in moving and shipping cars in the USA. With us, you’re not just buying a service – you’re buying peace of mind for your cross-country move. Contact us today for a free moving and car transport quote and see how we can make your relocation effortless.

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