Planning a solo move across the country and worried about going through the process alone? Lucky for you, we’ve been around the block — and the country — many, many times and have created this easy-to-follow four-step guide to help keep you on track throughout your solo moving process. Check it out!

Moving across the country is exciting — so much to look forward to, from the journey to your final destination. It’s also different from any other move you’ll make. Before you pack up your car and head out, learn a few lessons from someone who’s done it before.

Want to get an idea of how cross-country moving costs compare for traditional full-service movers, rental trucks, and portable containers? Read on to find cost examples for long-distance moves from 1,000 to 2,800 miles and shorter moves from 100 to 500 miles. We also cover the factors that affect long-distance moving costs, plus pros and cons of the different options.

No one loves all the work involved in moving out of state. But if you’re willing to take the time to research and manage the details, you’re much more likely to have a smooth move and begin your new life on a positive note. Get started with this list of to-dos and how-to tips.

A long-distance move has a lot of moving parts, so it often takes longer to plan and conduct — and flexibility is a must. Some smart advance preparation and a company with a stellar reputation for efficiency and flexibility can be the difference between disaster and success. See how PODS can be that company that helps to get your things where you want them, on time, in good shape, and at the price you want to pay.