If you’re moving to or from Houston, and it’s more than a few hours down the road, you’ve already got a lot spinning in your head. Long-distance moves are a whole different animal. You’re not just packing a truck—you’re coordinating your entire life across city or state lines.
We’ve helped a lot of people through this kind of thing over the years, and the number one regret is always the same:
“I wish I had started earlier.”
So, here’s your early start. Print this breakdown of what to do each week before your move, what to pack, what to prep, and what to triple-check before the big day; keep it in a moving binder and thank us later.
You’ve got two months. It sounds like a lot, but time disappears fast when you’re moving. The first step? Commit to the plan.
And yes, you’re going to need a notebook or Google Doc. You’re not going to remember everything. Make it shareable if you’re coordinating with family or a roommate.
If you’re not hiring full-service movers, you need to figure out who’s going to help—and how you’re getting your stuff there.
Now’s also the time to take a hard look at your stuff. Most people pack way more than they need.
This is the calm before the storm, so start slow.
Also, start mapping your trip if you’re driving. If you’re flying, book your flight. If your pet is coming with you, check the requirements for transport or boarding. The small stuff turns into big stress when you ignore it for too long.
This week is all admin. It’s not fun, but it’s where problems start if you skip it.
This is also a great time to clear out your fridge and pantry. Don’t try to move a half-used bottle of ketchup across the state. Just… don’t.
You’re four weeks away. This is when the move stops feeling theoretical. You’ve got enough time to handle things—if you stay consistent.
Keep Packing (But Smarter Now)
At this point, you’ve probably boxed up all the easy stuff. Now you’re getting into things you may still use but could probably live without for a few weeks.
Label everything clearly. If it’s fragile, write it on every side of the box—not just the top. You know movers don’t always stack things right.
Deal With the Stuff You’ve Been Avoiding
You’ve probably got that closet or that drawer. We all do. The junk drawer, the mystery tote in the garage, the box of tangled cords you swore you’d go through one day.
Now’s the day.
And don’t forget: this is your last good window to sell anything. If it hasn’t moved by the end of this week, either donate it or haul it off.
You’re officially close enough that every day counts. Things are probably starting to feel a little chaotic—and that’s normal.
This is the week to tie up any loose ends before the “final two-week push” hits.
Address Changes
Don’t wait until you’ve already moved in to realize your new debit card got mailed to your old place. Take care of this now:
Prep for Kids and Pets
If you’ve got small kids or pets, moving day gets ten times harder. Use the next few weeks to prepare.
You’re doing future-you a huge favor here.
Two weeks left. The packing should be about 80% done now. If it’s not, don’t panic, just carve out an hour or two each day and work methodically.
Clear Out the Kitchen
The kitchen takes longer than people expect. Start now:
Pro tip: Start a “last meals” list using what’s already in the pantry. Pasta + frozen broccoli? Boom. Dinner.
Pack a Personal Box (Per Person)
Everyone in your house should have a personal box or suitcase that stays with them during the move. Not with the movers. Not in the truck.
Inside goes:
You’ll be tired. You won’t want to dig through ten boxes labeled “Bedroom 3” to find socks.
This week is where things feel both rushed and frozen at the same time. You’re living in a half-packed house, eating on paper plates, and wondering how you still have this much stuff.
Final Confirmations
Empty Fridge and Freezer
Seriously—this is not the week for meal planning. Use what’s left, and by two days before your move, it should be almost empty.
You’re in the home stretch. By now, everything except the very last essentials should be packed.
Pack Your First-Night Essentials Box
This box travels with you—not on the moving truck.
Inside:
Do a Final Deep Clean (or Book One)
If you’re leaving behind a rental, or just want to start fresh, this is the time to either deep clean or schedule cleaners.
Focus on:
Take a deep breath. It’s go time.
What to Have Ready:
Final Walkthrough
Before leaving, check:
Leave behind anything the new owner/tenant will need (garage remotes, keys, appliance manuals), and take one last look around.
That’s it—you’re out.
You made it. Even if you’re surrounded by boxes and running on caffeine and pizza, the hardest part is over.
Unpack With a Plan
You don’t need to do everything in one day. Focus on:
Keep All Your Receipts
If your move qualifies as job-related or was part of a relocation package, some expenses may be tax-deductible. Keep everything organized until tax season.
Long-distance moves are hard. They just are. But having a solid plan—and the right people—can make it easier than you expect.
At AB Moving & Storage, we’ve helped thousands of families move across Texas and beyond. Whether you need packing help, long-distance transport, or just someone to answer your questions along the way, we’re here.
If you’re heading to or from Houston, give us a call for a free quote. We’ll walk you through it and get you where you need to go—without the stress.