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The Stuff That’s Illegal To Bring Into Colorado

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Colorado has seen a tidal wave of growth in the last couple of decades. Since 2000, this Rocky Mountain playground has seen its population balloon by 1.5 million people, with most of them moving to Denver and the surrounding Front Range area. If you’re thinking of joining them, you’re in for a treat.

While the toughest thing to contend with once you get here may be the altitude, your first obstacle could be just over the state line. So you don’t lose any momentum as climb toward your new mile-high home, get the low-down on what the authorities say you can and can’t bring into Colorado.

Animals and Pets

Cats, Dogs, and Rabbits

Colorado is a great place to be if you enjoy taking your dog outdoors with you. Across the state, you’ll find countless parks, trails, and recreational facilities that are totally pooch-friendly. Just make sure you have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for your pup when you enter the state, along with proof that it is free from rabies and has a current rabies vaccination.

 

“The State of Colorado goes so far as to discourage transporting untreated firewood from one area to another within the state. They’d certainly frown upon the import of firewood from outside their borders.”

 

Cats require a CVI as well as rabies vaccinations. Pet rabbits require only a CVI. Take a minute though to check if there are any special requirements for your specific state of origin, for your personal furry friend. 

Livestock

Statewide, Colorado has detailed and lengthy regulations regarding the import and ownership of all sorts of animals:

 

“No person shall possess, sell, propagate, acquire, purchase, broker, transport, trade, barter or attempt to sell, propagate, acquire, purchase, broker, trade or barter live wildlife unless such person first obtains a proper license.”

 

However, there is a long list of animals that are exempt from license requirements. These include small pet animals like hamsters and gerbils, and the kinds of animals you’d expect to see on a farm — an illustration depicting an orange cat peeking out of a blue cowboy boot. A snake slithers along behind the boot.goats, sheep, and pigs to name a few. Less common animals such as water buffalo, ostriches, alpacas, and reindeer are also free from licensing requirements. Because all of these animals are considered widely domesticated, they’re exempt.  

Exotic Animals

Animals such as fish, amphibians, and certain birds fall under the “unregulated wildlife” category. And as long as you are not engaging in any sort of commercial activity with your toucan or your snake, you don’t need to go through the licensing process — at least at the time of this writing. The Parks & Wildlife Commission asserts that their efforts to balance public interest in owning exotic animals with the safety and well-being of the state are an ongoing process. Meaning, the rules may change.

If you are bringing an unusual animal into Colorado, you’d do well to check with the Colorado Division of Parks & Wildlife to make sure you’re remaining on the right side of the law.

And by the way, if you decide you don’t want that exotic animal anymore, remember that “it is unlawful to intentionally release any wildlife declared to be unregulated.” Keeping a snapping turtle may be okay, but letting one into the Colorado wild is not.

Plants And Produce

an illustration of an open wooden wagon filled with planters and leafy green plants

Colorado does not appear to be on par with California or Florida when it comes to restricting the import of fresh produce and house plants. We say this after finding little to no information on specific regulations or restrictions.

However, we do suggest you leave any plants that have come from a “natural environment” behind. In other words, house plants in potting soil, things you’ve grown yourself in a greenhouse, and produce from the supermarket will likely not raise any eyebrows. But trees or flowers you’ve dug up from forests or outside areas aren’t a good idea. 

Firewood

The State of Colorado goes so far as to discourage transporting untreated firewood from one area to another within the state. They’d certainly frown upon the import of firewood from outside their borders.

But hey, Colorado already has plenty of trees – and plenty of firewood.

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Plant quarantine

You might be wondering why Colorado (or other states) have certain restrictions on certain types of vegetation and where they come from. It’s often referred to as a “quarantine situation“. Any such circumstances can be found on the USDA quarantine states/areas page, but their main goal is to keep certain pests, fungi, or diseases from spreading.

As an example, there is an ongoing and concerted effort in Colorado to contain and eradicate the Japanese Beetle. This particular page refers to commercial nursery stock, but as private citizens, we are not exempt from doing damage to the environment we are entering. So do your part and take care when transporting your plants and produce into Colorado.

Make sure your plants are healthy and pest-free, and when in doubt, leave them behind. Any questions and concerns can be brought to the State Plant Health Director.

Firearms and Weapons

an illustration of dynamite with a lit fuse

Colorado seems to be more concerned with the import of firewood than with the possession of firearms.

Colorado’s gun law states that an individual may carry a loaded pistol or revolver in his or her vehicle if “its use is for lawful protection of such person or another’s person or property.” Other weapons, however, can still be in your possession but can’t be loaded. 

 

“It is perfectly legal to bring alcohol into Colorado…[h]owever, having an open alcoholic beverage container is illegal. This pertains not only to the driver but to all passengers in the vehicle…”

 

Colorado does make the distinction between concealed and open carry, favoring open carry for its gun-toting citizens, stating that “…when you carry the weapon into your home, business, hotel room, etc. it must be in plain view.” There’s also something called “interstate cooperation”. Essentially, Colorado will honor another state’s concealed carry permit, but only if that state also recognizes a concealed carry permit from Colorado.

Perhaps the most intriguing Colorado gun law regards registering your firearm. The gun law says quite plainly that, “the State of Colorado prohibits gun registration.”

Restricted Firearms

Some firearms and accessories are illegal to sell, purchase, and possess in Colorado. These items are termed “dangerous weapons” and include machine guns, sawed-off rifles and shotguns, silencers, and large-capacity ammunition magazines.

an illustration of a cowboy hat with an arrow shot through the very topNote that local municipalities may impose stricter laws than what the state has outlined. Along the Front Range area (i.e. just east of the Rocky Mountains), and especially in Boulder, you’ll want to check with the local authorities before you start driving around with a loaded pistol. It is also illegal to carry a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

Other Weapons

This page, along with the links provided at the top, covers just about everything one moving to Colorado might need to know about what weaponry is permissible in the state. Of note: knowingly possessing a dangerous weapon is a felony, and knowingly possessing an illegal weapon is a misdemeanor. Read the statute carefully before you bring something questionable into Colorado.

Further explanations of potentially illegal acts involving firearms as well as weapons like nunchucks, throwing stars, explosive devices, and various types of bows and arrows can be found here. 

Fireworks

As of July 2023, all fireworks that explode or leave the ground are banned. State laws do allow for fountains, ground spinners, sparklers, and other smaller fireworks. However, their legal use may also depend on the local municipality. Some cities and counties ban fireworks completely.

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Controlled Substances 

Alcohol

It is perfectly legal to bring alcohol into Colorado, as long as it is for personal consumption and falls within set quantity limits. However, having an open alcoholic beverage container is illegal. This pertains not only to the driver but to all passengers in the vehicle (with exceptions for motor homes, limousines, and the like). Note that the term “open container” includes containers that have been opened even if nothing has been consumed or otherwise removed. It likewise includes containers that are closed but have had some of the contents aready removed.

In short, just keep any alcohol you may have in the back of your vehicle, sealed, and out of reach of any passengers.

Marijuana

Interestingly, the same does not apply to marijuana. Colorado is one of several states to have legalized marijuana, and while there are plenty of limits and restrictions in place, having marijuana in your vehicle is only an offense if (a) the container is open or the seal is broken, (b) some portion of the contents have been removed, and (c) there is evidence that marijuana has been consumed within the vehicle — a standard not necessary for an open alcohol container infraction.

 

“…[A]s long as you are not engaging in any sort of commercial activity with your toucan or your snake, you don’t need to go through the [animal] licensing process — at least at the time of this writing.”

 

But when you’re physically moving to Colorado from another state, that changes things. Federal law prohibits the transport of marijuana — in any form — across state lines. You’ll have to wait until you’re here, settled, and legal to grow your own for your personal use or to purchase a small amount from a licensed dispensary. 

For a rundown on the legal and illegal use, purchase, sale, and possession of marijuana in Colorado check the state’s Cannabis page.

And of course, keep in mind that the laws in your locality may be stricter than what state laws allow.

From the scene in downtown Denver to the heights of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado has a ton of fun to offer. Make sure you’re on the right side of the law when you arrive so you can jump right into it all.

2023 Study: The Strictest State Laws for Moving With Pets

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Key Findings:

  • Hawaii is the strictest state (Stringency Score 69.7 out of 100) for moving with animals, requiring both dogs and cats two rabies vaccinations and an antibody test, or to be placed in quarantine
  • New York (68.8) and Nebraska (68.7) are the next hardest states to move with dogs and cats
  • North Carolina (Stringency Score 13.8) is the most lenient state for incoming cats and dogs, followed by New Jersey (14.8) and Maine (25) 
  • Only one state – New Jersey – doesn’t require dogs to be vaccinated for rabies when moving to the state
  • California, Michigan, New Jersey, Iowa, and Tennessee have stricter rules for dogs than cats

Moving to a new state can be a stressful experience when you have a furry friend to take along. Relocating with a pet requires additional planning and preparation, as the majority of states require cats and dogs to have a valid health certificate and a current rabies vaccination, at the minimum.

Some states, like New York or Nebraska, impose additional requirements for health certificates and vaccinations. Others, such as Maine or New Jersey, allow cats and dogs to move in without any proof of health status or vaccination at all. It can get kind of confusing!

Read on to see which states are the strictest in terms of moving with a pet, see which are the most lenient, and find out whether it’s cats or dogs that face the most scrutiny when moving across state lines.

Hard To Get Into Hawaii: States With the Strictest Rules for Pet Imports

No other state has pet migration rules as stringent as Hawaii.

Having been a rabies-free state for over 100 years, and the only state with that status, it’s understandable that the local government is keen to protect it.

That’s probably why Hawaii is the only state that requires cats and dogs to have a double rabies vaccination, a rabies antibody test, a microchip for identification, and inspection upon arrival. 

If all the requirements aren’t met four months before arriving in Hawaii, the pet may not qualify for immediate release and be quarantined for five days, costing the owner $244 in fees.

 

“There is a cluster of states in the Northeast — namely New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts — that have some of the strictest rules for certificates of veterinary inspection (CVI)…”

 

New York and Nebraska have the next strictest control measures for cats and dogs arriving from other states. Both states require animals to have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) issued within 30 days of travel, listing a destination address and confirming no visible signs of infectious diseases.

In addition, the rabies vaccine is required for animals as young as three months and it must be administered at least 30 days prior to entering the state.

Other states where rules for bringing cats and dogs are relatively strict include West Virginia and Louisiana, where only 12-month (as opposed to 36-month) rabies vaccinations are recognized, and Connecticut, where the health certificate should state that the animal hadn’t been exposed to rabies for 100 days prior to entering the state.

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North Carolina and New Jersey Most Open to Pet Arrivals

As some states impose rigorous rules on cats and dogs moving in, others appear to be welcoming their new feline and canine residents with open arms.

North Carolina, for example, is the easiest state to move to with a cat or a dog. The state doesn’t require animals to have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) when entering the state. And, more importantly, animals aged four months or older can enter the state without a rabies vaccine, provided that they receive one within a week of arrival. 

New Jersey is the second most lenient state with regard to pet imports. Here, An illustration of a blue cat and pink dog sitting together in a box. There is a stylized clipboard and vaccine syringe on either side of it. rabies vaccinations aren’t required for cats at all and are only “recommended” for dogs over seven months old. But most New Jersey townships require dogs to be licensed, which does require you to vaccinate your dog against rabies. In addition, dogs entering the state do need to have a CVI that’s no more than 30 days old.

The next states in our lenience ranking are Maine, Montana, and Utah, where the only requirement is a valid rabies vaccination.

Texas is another state where a CVI isn’t required for incoming cats or dogs, but at the same time, new feline and canine residents are to be vaccinated against rabies as soon as they are 12 weeks old.

North and South: Regional Differences in Rules for Moving with Pets

Projecting the rules set out by different states onto a map, a few curious patterns emerge. 

Looking at the overall stringency of rules, the states where it’s the highest are generally in the northern part of the country. Hawaii and Louisiana, of course, are notable exceptions. This is largely mirrored in how strict states are in their requirements for veterinary inspections of incoming cats and dogs. 

 

“It’s true that dogs have traditionally been associated with rabies, but they’re only the majority of cases in certain parts of the world. According to the CDC, there are many more rabid cats than dogs in the United States.”

 

There is a cluster of states in the Northeast — namely New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts — that have some of the strictest rules for certificates of veterinary inspection (CVI) that every cat and dog coming to the state needs to have.

When it comes to regulations around the rabies vaccine, it’s the states in the South that generally have tighter rules. Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Alabama stand out as some of the tightest requirements for rabies vaccination for cats and dogs entering these states.

Unequal Welcome: States with Varying Requirements for Cats and Dogs

More often than not, the rules for cats and dogs moving from one state to another are the same within a given state. And yet, seven states make moving in with one of America’s most beloved pet animals a lot easier than moving in with another one. And, you guessed it, it’s cats that have it easier.

This is most evident in the state of California, where dogs moving to the state need to be vaccinated against rabies and have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI), while cats are allowed to be brought to the state without adhering to these measures.

Michigan does require both cats and dogs to have a CVI, but only dogs need to be vaccinated against rabies before coming to the state, and this applies to dogs as young as 12 weeks of age.

Iowa and the aforementioned New Jersey are the two other states where the requirement to have your pet vaccinated against rabies only applies to dogs. Dogs may enter New Jersey without a rabies vaccine, but would need one to be licensed in most of the state’s municipalities.

 

“Hawaii is the strictest state (Stringency Score 69.7 out of 100) for moving with animals, requiring both dogs and cats require double rabies vaccinations and an antibody test, or be placed in quarantine.”

 

While it may seem like common sense, this double standard with regard to rabies vaccination for dogs and cats is somewhat dubious.

It’s true that dogs have traditionally been associated with rabies, but they’re only the majority of cases in certain parts of the world. According to the CDC, there are many more rabid cats than dogs in the United States.

Curious to see what rules each state sets out for bringing in cats and dogs? Check out our interactive table below.

Sources and Methodology
In order to rank all U.S. states and the District of Columbia on how stringent or lenient they are as regards the import of cats and dogs, rules for the importation of cats and dogs from other U.S. states or territories were gathered from the official government websites of each state.
The following factors were considered in determining how strict or relaxed the rules were in each state, with the weighted score assigned to each. The rules mostly revolved around the certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) and rabies vaccination requirements:
  • Certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) needed – 25 points
  • Within how many days of travel the CVI had to be issued – 10 points
  • Destination address in the state listed on CVI – 10 points
  • Explicit requirement of confirmation of disease-free status on CVI – 5 points
  • Rabies vaccine mandated before arrival – 25 points
  • Rabies vaccine types accepted (1-year or 3-year) – 5 points
  • Vaccinated at least X days before arrival  – 5 points
  • Vaccination age threshold – 5 points
  • Other vaccine requirements (e.g., quarantine, additional tests, fees) – 15 points
The longer in advance the animal had to be vaccinated or inspected to get a CVI, the more stringent the rules were deemed. The lower the age threshold for vaccination, the stricter the rules were deemed.
States with the highest number of points were deemed more stringent, and states with the lower number of points were deemed more lenient. For states where requirements differed for cats and dogs, an average score of two sets of requirements was taken.
For the complete list of sources, check our datasheet.

 

Illustrations by Chanelle Nibbelink

How To Move or Ship an RV and Travel the Country (by Someone Who Did It)

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If you had told me last June that I was about to be the proud owner of a 24-foot-long 1991 Winnebago Warrior, I would’ve said you were crazy.

But there I was, handing over a wad of cash to a young couple I found on Craigslist soon after realizing it would be nearly as expensive to rent an RV as to buy an RV. Suddenly, I was moments away from the start of a spur-of-the-moment, cross-country road trip. 

I’m not alone in doing this. Thanks to the pandemic, Americans of all ages and budgets have gotten into #vanlife and RV living as a way to see the country without worrying about germy airports or hotel rooms. (In fact, by September 2020, RV sales had increased more than 30%, year over year!)

If you’re also a new RV owner like me, you might be wondering how to get it across the country safely and (relatively) cheaply. Well, after driving from Los Angeles to Maine and back, here’s everything I learned.

One of our first stops in Arches National Park, Utah.

Tips for Driving an RV Cross-country

1. Perform an RV-specific safety check

One of the most important things before an RV trip is making sure the RV is safe to drive long-distance. (Breaking down on the side of the highway is not fun, trust me… I know this all too well.)

But how do you know if an RV is safe to drive?

Because RVs usually aren’t driven as often as personal cars and often spend months (or years!) sitting in storage, there’s a greater opportunity for fluids to dry up or pests to chew up the wiring. And since they’re pretty much a house and car in one, there are a lot more complex components that can go haywire. 

Crucial RV inspection items (and why they matter for RVs)

  • Start by checking all the fluid levels. The list must include oil, coolant, and power steering. This is especially vital if the vehicle has been sitting for a long time! When we picked up our RV, the oil was practically gone since it hadn’t been driven much in the last few years
  • Check that the brakes are working well. RVs are exceptionally heavy, so you need solid brakes in case you have to stop within a short distance
  • Double-check that the battery is in good condition. Batteries lose about 10% of their energy per month when sitting and not in use, aka what RVs do all the time
  • Every single light has to work. For any oversized vehicle, it’s really important that your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all working so that other drivers can see you and know your next move
  • Inspect the tires for wear. Since RVs aren’t usually driven as much as personal cars, the tread might be in great shape—but the sidewalls are prone to breaking down over time, especially when parked in the sun or dry climates! When we purchased our RV, the tire tread was in like-new condition, but the sidewalls were clearly cracking. When we looked up the age of tires, it turned out they were more than 12 years old! Trust me, you do NOT want a blowout. (Replace tires if they’re more than five to eight years old)

Finally, inspect all the RV-specific components to make sure they’re running and don’t have any leaks. For example, you should check the oil level on your generator and let it run for a couple of hours to prep it for use.

 

“To check for propane leaks, put a little soapy water around any connections and check for rising bubbles.”

 

On our road trip, we traveled through many hot destinations in the middle of the summer (at our final stop in Laughlin, Nevada, it reached 121 degrees during the day!), so it was crucial to have a working generator to keep the A/C unit running. Also, make sure to check underneath and around your generator for leaks, as the exhaust is toxic. And change any fluids and filters that need it.

It’s also a good idea to have a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, LP gas leak detector and fire extinguisher onboard.

Got a propane tank? Do these safety things

If your RV uses propane gas (LP gas) to heat the stove, hot water, fridge, etc., it’s important to check all tanks, connections, valves and the firing operation. Be sure the pressure is right and there aren’t any leaks. To check for propane leaks, put a little soapy water around any connections and check for rising bubbles. You might not realize that the tanks have an expiration date too, so check the date on the tank and have it re-certified, if necessary.

If you aren’t comfortable doing this safety check on your own, schedule an appointment with an RV mechanic (and don’t wait, because they tend to book up fast in the summer months). 

2. To keep stuff from rattling, batten down the hatches

Once you get things in working order and hit the pavement, you will quickly discover everything in the RV will begin to rattle. Yes, you can fix this too!

Before ever hitting the gas, secure doors, windows, and cabinets so they are locked and remain in place while driving. If you have photo frames up on the walls or electronics sitting up on shelves or cabinets, take them down and put them in a secure spot. (No, you aren’t supposed to keep your Playstation out.)

 

“…keep a post-it on your dashboard with your RV’s exact dimensions so you always know if you can fit!”

 

Nothing is worse than hitting a bump and having a full bottle of olive oil launch from a cabinet and spill all over the floor (yes, this happened to me). Even if your cabinet doors are secured, the items inside can move around quite a bit, presenting a safety hazard when you open them. To mitigate this, buy small bins and containers to keep loose items from getting jumbled in cabinets and drawers. You can also use non-slip mats along shelves to prevent things from sliding around. Strategically placed bungee cords and velcro strips can also help.

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3. Packing light makes things safer (and cheaper)

Driving a heavy vehicle like an RV is a lot different than a regular car. For one, you need to allow more time and room for braking. It also takes a while to accelerate, and you may not be able to keep up with highway speed limits (it may aggravate the drivers behind you, but safety is more important than speed. Just stay in the right lane).

 

“Never drive with the fresh tank completely full—aim to fill your water tank about 1/3 of the way for optimal weight.”

 

So don’t make maneuvering your RV tougher than necessary by packing on a lot of extra weight. A few extra bags or a couple of paddleboards might not seem like a big deal considering how much room you have, but the weight really does add up. Only bring what you really need.

Also, don’t forget about other things that can weigh your RV down, like the water tank. Never drive with the fresh tank completely full—aim to fill your water tank about 1/3 of the way for optimal weight. If you’ve been on the road for a few days, be sure to dump your gray water (used water from the sinks and shower) and black water (from the, er, bathroom) at an official dump station.

4. Crate or otherwise secure your pets while driving

Don’t let pets hang out up front while you’re on the road. (We were parked.)

Fur babies make adorable co-pilots, but it’s not safe to have them roaming free while you’re in transit. Not only can they distract you while driving, but they can get injured if you stop suddenly or get in an accident. 

It’s best to keep them in a crate that’s well secured while the RV is moving. Make sure they have access to water, and plan potty stops every few hours.

5. Download an app to make RV-friendly routes

Not all roads are RV-friendly. Some roads are just plain too narrow (or windy) for oversized vehicles. And of course, you’ll want to watch out for bridges and tunnels that are too low to clear.

When we were on our return trip traveling along the East Coast, we were following Google Map directions that put us on a highway with a tunnel that had too low of clearance for us to drive through. Fortunately, there were warning signs that let us know we had to exit before it was too late. But we should have double-checked the route ahead of time to save 30 minutes of double-backing.

Personally, I learned to use the app Roadtrippers. It helped me navigate the most RV-friendly routes and avoided hazards or detours. Also, keep a post-it on your dashboard with your RV’s exact dimensions so you always know if you can fit!

6. Plan where to park ahead of time

My “mini Winnie” is just 24 feet long, which means it’s possible to park it in many regular car spots. And thanks to a huge back window, I can actually see where I’m going when backing up. You may not be so lucky.

 

“The first night I had my RV, I parked it on my street, not realizing that the city prohibited overnight parking for oversized vehicles. That was $75 down the drain within 12 hours of owning the darn thing, which I could have easily avoided.”

 

The longer the RV, the harder it is to maneuver. Some gas stations, grocery stores, city streets or even national parks may not be able to accommodate your RV if it’s too big. Figuring out where you’re allowed to stop for gas, food, and most importantly – sleep – is best done ahead of time.

Speaking of sleeping, it’s important to park in safe, RV-friendly areas when you’re done driving for the day. If you don’t want to shell out for a spot in an RV park, some good places to park overnight for free unofficially include Walmart, Cracker Barrel, and truck stops like Flying J and Love’s. But always double-check that RV parking is allowed at that particular location.

RV Parky is a great tool for finding RV parking and reading reviews from others who’ve stayed there. Other good options include All Stays and Harvest Hosts (a paid service).

Nomad View dispersed camping in Wall, South Dakota – a spot we found using RV Parky.

If you’re planning on-street parking, first make sure it’s allowed. The first night I had my RV, I parked it on my street, not realizing that the city prohibited overnight parking for oversized vehicles. That was $75 down the drain within 12 hours of owning the darn thing, which I could have easily avoided.

7. If you’re driving coast-to-coast, budget in the neighborhood of $3,000 for gas and other expenses

The not-so-great part about van life is that it’s not a cost-effective way to travel.

Why? They are really heavy, causing you to burn through a lot of gas. On our 10,000+ mile trip, we spent about $3,000 just in gas. At the time, the average price per gallon was around $3.00 (shout out to Missouri for the $1.70 per gallon gas). Plus, spending several days on the road means you’ll probably end up spending more money on food and drinks than usual. And if you want to stay in an RV park one night, the price can be just as much as a motel.

 

“If you’re shipping an RV less than 1,000 miles, the average cost is $1.05 per mile. However, if you need your RV shipped further, the average cost jumps to $3.32 per mile.”

 

Before you hit the road, make a list of all these budget categories and try to estimate how much you’ll spend on each. The trip might cost more than you realized. Set aside enough savings to cover these costs, and spend some time saving up if you need to.

8. Literally schedule time to enjoy the ride

In the span of about a month, I got to see mountain goats hop up the cliffs in Zion, stand at the base of Mount Rushmore, watch a lightning storm over the Badlands, camp alongside bison in Yellowstone, get sprayed by the Niagra Falls, listen to country music in Nashville, see Elvis’ grave in Memphis, sit on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, take my dogs swimming in the Colorado River, and so much more.

I can confirm… one of the best ways to experience the United States and its diverse landscapes and communities is by driving it cross-country.

So if you have to haul your RV across the country, why not enjoy it? Schedule time to make stops along your route, and buffer a couple of extra days into your schedule in case you want to make an unscheduled stop or spend more time in one area.

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. One last chance to enjoy the views before heading home!

What if I Want To Ship My RV Instead?

Fair enough. As fun as an RV road trip can be, I will admit that it’s also stressful to drive that far. Not to mention, it’s just a bit time-consuming.

Maybe you just bought a new RV that’s several hundred miles away and you want it ASAP. Or maybe you want to post up at an RV resort without making the long drive to get there, or you have a trailer-style RV but no truck to haul it yet. Whatever the case, you might consider shipping your RV instead.

It might feel counterintuitive to ship an RV cross country, but it’s really not! There are plenty of services that do just that. Here are a few ways you can ship an RV:

  • Towing: One option is to have the moving service use a specialized vehicle and equipment to tow the RV to its new destination. However, this may not be the best option for shipping cross-country
  • Flatbed: The moving service will use a large truck with a flatbed trailer to haul your RV long-distance (usually tugged along with several others)
  • Driving: You can hire a driver to personally transport your RV to its destination

You should take all the precautions outlined above to be sure your RV is safe to haul and nothing gets damaged. Additionally, turn off any electronics, and totally disconnect the power supply and gas lines.

How much does shipping an RV cost?

As far as the cost to ship an RV, it will depend on the size of the vehicle and how far it needs to go.

If you’re shipping an RV less than 1,000 miles, the average cost is $1.05 per mile. However, if you need your RV shipped further, the average cost jumps to $3.32 per mile. Other factors, such as gas prices and season, may increase costs.

Moving an RV long-distance isn’t for the timid. You have to be comfortable spending a lot of time behind the wheel, navigating unknown roads and towns, sleeping in a different location every night, and being flexible with your schedule. 

If that doesn’t sound appealing to you, it’s okay; you can pay someone else to do it, as long as you can come up with the cash. For my final tip, ask professional long-distance movers what they charge for car shipping—it could save you a lot of money!

Help Your Pet Adjust to a New Home: Moving Tips for Dog and Cat Parents

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If you’ve ever moved your pet long-distance (or even down the block!), you know that it can be a stressful time for both of you. All the rushing around, packing and planning can make your pet feel uneasy.

With their routines changing, dogs and cats can feel unsure about their situation. When you move with pets, their scenery and smells change. This signals distress for your fur baby.

During this time, it’s important for you to remain calm and consistent. Remember that you are your pet’s most familiar anchor in the new home. If they are acting timid, unsure or following you around, you may need to be patient with them. Always remain confident, calm and consistent.

To help ease your furry friend’s anxiety, we’ve collected some of our best tips to help your pet stay relaxed during a move and adjust seamlessly to their new home.

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Before Moving With Your Pet:

Dogs and cats will know something is up before the move. They will see you packing boxes and bags and can sense your mood. If you’re anxious or stressed about the impending move, your pet is likely to feel it too. There are several things you can do before the actual move to help your pet feel at ease:

    • Prioritize quality time. Spend time with your pet before the move so that they are focused on you. If your pet is a dog, reinforce basic obedience commands so they are fresh in their mind.
    • Sprinkle your scent. Spray a distinct scent, such as your perfume, around your home starting three weeks before you move. Spray this same smell in the new house before your pet arrives.
    • Inspect your new space for danger. Check your new house for any poisonous or hazardous items like rat poisoning/traps, holes in the fence or chewable objects.
    • Have a vet on call. If moving cities, research a veterinarian to have on call in the new city—just in case.
    • Update the paperwork. License your pet according to local ordinances, update their identification tags and contact your pet’s microchip or tattoo registry to update your contact information. Don’t have any of those things? Learn more about them here.
    • Keep them legal. If moving cities, check the local law. Find out if you need a new license, what the leash laws are and if there are breed bans in your new city.
    • Crate train beforehand. If your pets will need to be crated during the move, ensure they are crate trained so the new situation doesn’t stress them out.
    • Condition for success. Condition your pet by having a few boxes and suitcases out ahead of time, before the move. That way they don’t associate those objects with you leaving.
  • Practice makes perfect. If your dog will be living with new rules after the move (e.g., moving from a house to an apartment), make sure they are trained on the new protocol beforehand. 

During the Move with Your Pet:

On moving day, it’s important to remember to keep your dog or cat safe, calm and contained. Thousands of pets run away during relocations each year and many never find their way home. You can minimize the chances of this happening to your beloved companion and make their move a lot more enjoyable if you keep these tips in mind.

    • Minimize anxiety with a toy. During busy packing activities keep your pets in their crates with a toy to keep them occupied.
    • Ask for help watching your pet. If you need to, have a friend or family member watch your pet to keep them away from the hustle and bustle of moving.
    • Build a safe space. Your pet may become scared when the moving boxes start to take over. Ensure they don’t run out the door by keeping them in a safe space where they can’t get lost or hurt.
    • Keep them tagged. Make sure your pet has proper identification and tags on during a move, in case they get out.
    • Medicate them if necessary. If your pet gets anxiety during the move, consider a veterinarian prescribed anti-anxiety medication or thunder shirt.
    • Feed them lightly. Feed your pet lightly the day-of the move, especially if they will be in the car for long periods of time.
  • Plan pit stops. If your dog will be spending a lot of time in the car, scout out dog parks or walking trails along the way so that they can stretch their legs (and do their business)!

Adjusting With Your Pet After the Move:

Once you’re all moved in, it’s important to make your dog or cat feel like they are home, too. There are several things you can do around your new place to ease any fears your pet may have about abandonment or unfamiliarity. You should send non-verbal signals that they are safe, loved and a permanent part of your new home.

    • Acquaint your dog with their new space. When you get to the new home, take your dog for a leashed walk inside and outside to let them get acquainted with the new smells while they’re feeling safe.
    • Introduce cats to one room at a time. When you get to your new home, introduce the new space to your cat slowly. Confine them to one room at first, then slowly introduce the rest of the house.
    • Make a house a home. Place your pet’s bowls, bed and leash in the same room in the new house as they were in the old house. This will help make the new spaces more familiar.
    • Stick around the house. Plan to be home with your pet the first few days after the move, to minimize the chance of separation anxiety. At first, leave the house for short periods of time to see how they react. Then, when you need to be away from the house all day, your pet will feel more comfortable.
    • Reassure them with treats. Leave treats and familiar toys with your pet when you depart the house, at least for the first few weeks.
    • Get on their level (literally). Spend time on the floor with your pets. This will not only give them personal attention but will help your scent sink into the floor faster, making them feel more comfortable.
    • Watch for signs of trouble. Observe your pet’s behavior. If they show signs of stress like refusing to eat, coughing or they have diarrhea, you may need to take them to the vet.
  • Be consistent. Keep your daily routine as close as possible to the way it was before the move. Feeding, walks, playtime and cuddle time should all happen at a consistent time.

During the move, remember to be patient with your furry friends. Yes, there may be accidents due to stress or changing schedules. But the more you are able to monitor them and, if necessary, restrict their movements, the less chance this will happen.

You can also consider a hiring moving service such as Moving Place. They can take care of logistics and transportation of your precious goods, while you make sure your pets and family feel safe and ready for their new home.

Finally, be careful not to correct your pet excessively, as that could just stress them out more. Praise them when they are good and be sure to give them a little extra love and attention. It should take your pet around three weeks to adjust to their new home. As you become more relaxed and comfortable in your new environment, your pet will too!

Tips to help your pet adjust to a move

How to Pack Fish Tanks and Aquariums

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Category: Kids & Pets, Pro Packing Guides

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Once upon a time a move crew and I walked into a customer’s plush home – and came face to face with a massive aquarium. Brightly colored tropical fish. Lots of plant things. Coral and glass and mini rock formations. It was beautiful – and very intimidating.

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The Overseas Pet – How Do I Move My Pet Internationally?

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International Pet Moving Tips

The What, When and How on Moving Your Pet Internationally

First, why move your pet? Seems like a dumb question, doesn’t it? But there was a time not so long ago that an international move meant finding a new home for Rover. Not any more. Airlines across the board have improved pet travel over the years, making even a long distance move smooth for the whole family, particularly the four-legged members.

Since the enactment of the Safe Air Travel for Animals Act of 2000, airlines in the US have upped their game, making it safer than ever to put your pet on a plane. Still, moving a pet with you to another country is a decision you’ll have to make. Do your research and be sure a move is practical or even possible for your pet.

With all that’s entailed in an international move – and we know you’ve got a long list of things to do – it’s important to know and follow all the steps necessary to take your pet along with you on this adventure. (more…)

Moving With Your Pet

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Category: Kids & Pets

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Moving can be an extraordinary pain even without added complications — but when you have to take a couple of animals with no understanding of what you’re doing or why, the problems will quickly compound faster than you’re able to figure out why your furry companions are getting upset. Confused and angry pets can create all kinds of havoc on a move — even if it’s only to the next block over.

Fortunately, there are some measures you can take during each step of the moving process to increase the chances of the move going more smoothly. And if you love your pet as much as I do (you know, the type of person who treats them more like family than pet, buys them the best food, utilizes the best pet insurance, and makes sure all their toys are free of toxins), then you want to make sure this move goes as easy on your pet as possible.

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