An interstate move is frequently a big decision. Although in certain cases the trip can be quick and you may even stay in the same metro area - think of Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri - many other interstate moves require significantly more time just to travel from your old home to your new one, not to mention the potential for additional expense.

Use these expert tips to make your interstate moving experience as fruitful as possible.

1. Find a dependable interstate moving company

Because interstate movers carry your belongings across state lines, such activities are regulated by the federal government. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces rules related to the actions of moving companies that fall into this category, many of which provide direct benefits to you.

For example, FMCSA-compliant businesses need to provide you with information about your rights as a customer and offer an arbitration process if an informal resolution can't be reached between you and the company.

Make sure you choose a moving company, like Atlas, that fully and completely adheres to FMCSA rules. It shouldn't be too hard to pick these compliant providers out - most of them proudly display their credentials.

2. Moving plants? Keep state regulations in mind

Plants offer a number of benefits inside and outside homes, from simple visual appeal to reducing carbon dioxide levels. However, many states have restrictions about the importation of plants from outside their borders. Hawaii might be the most severe in that regard, as it needs to maintain its unique, isolated ecosystem as much as possible. Plenty of other states take measures to prevent certain plants from entering, with Arizona, California and Florida among the most restrictive.

To deal with issues related to gypsy moths as well as general import exclusions, use our in-depth guide: State Restrictions on Moving Plants.

3. Get ahead of the game

One of the most common and useful pieces of moving advice is to plan ahead. While you can get away with leaving some things to the last minute for a local move, doing so during an interstate move is far more difficult. You simply can't make a second trip if your car is too full or call around the day before a move because you forgot to rent a moving van.

Make a list of all the tasks you need to accomplish and set deadlines that are well in advance of your move-out and move-in dates.

4. Keep personal belongings nearby

Whether it's important documents, jewelry, personal computers or medication, there are certain things you should keep in your car or carry-on bag if traveling by plane or train. Besides quick access to these items and the sense of security you get from having them nearby, reputable movers suggest or require you to transport a variety of things yourself.

With so much more coordination often needed for an interstate move, planning for personal belongings well before the big day will pay off.