Sue,

As you probably noticed already, our web site is a collection of questions and answers that cover many aspects of the moving process, as well as dealing with specific scenarios that people were looking to analyze using or help.

Although each scenario seems to be different, most of them can be used as learning examples applicable to most moves. I will list here few examples that you could refer to in order to understand better where to start your preparations for your cross country move:

1. http://www.movinganswers.org/thread/277/How-do-we-start-the-moving-process-.html - here Henry gives a very good review of how to start the moving process.
   
   
2. http://www.movinganswers.org/thread/543/How-do-movers-charge-for-the-move-.html - in this answer I explain how movers charge for local and long distance moves.
   
   
3. http://www.movinganswers.org/thread/196/Moving-estimates-by-cubic-feet-vs-moving-estimates-by-pounds.html
   http://www.movinganswers.org/thread/197/Does-it-matter-if-my-flat-price-is-based-on-weight-or-volume-.html - here Julie explains the difference between charges based on weight as oppsed to charges based on volume, as well as how flat rates are calculated.
   

I am sure the more you read the better you will undersand what you need to do. And remember - we are here to answer your more specific quetions :)