1. Be prepared
Downsize to cut transportation and storage cost. Sell unused items online or at a moving sale. Give formal notice well before the last day: banks and creditors, school transfer letters, employer, landlord, and address updates. Arrange temporary storage in LA if you will not unload into a finished home immediately. A New York to LA move takes time, so plan it.
2. Start packing
Hire a licensed company that can handle fragile goods. Extra services such as white glove, furniture assembly, carpentry, and restoration help. Work only with certified movers. Insurance options protect against transit damage. DIY cross-country packing can take weeks or months. See hiring a moving company and long-distance moving.
3. Consider transportation
Driving can take several days; lodging and meals add up. The original article said shipping the car and flying is often cheaper and easier. If you drive, one described option was a roughly 2,800-mile Midwest route, or going via Florida. Winter mountain driving can mean ice and snow. If you are not after a road trip, fly. Scenic routes exist if you do drive.
4. Unpack slowly and settle
Unpack critical documents first and store them safely. Tip the crew if they earned it. Meet neighbors. Plan a California license and car registration. Drive the area to find schools, hospitals, grocery stores, and a few places you actually want to try. Get a free long-distance quote.