Are you planning to move to another state? Moving to a distant, unfamiliar destination can seem intimidating. Your new state may be very different from your current home and have different laws and policies. Moving long-distance, such as to another region of the country, can make you even more nervous.
But you don’t have to be fearful about moving across state lines. Over six million Americans move out of state each year. With proper planning, you relocate with little stress. Sure, there are many things to do and keep track of, but a sound plan will make it go well.
This post will give some tips for moving across state lines. This information may be helpful if you’re planning a move to another state.
Learn About Your New State
First, you will want to learn as much as possible about the state you’re moving to. Knowing where you’re moving will remove the fear of the unknown and enable you to make appropriate plans.
So take some time to learn about your new area. Find out about the cost of living, the climate, traffic conditions, public transportation options, and dining and entertainment. You can also talk with people you know. Maybe a friend, relative, or coworker used to live there. There’s nothing like first-hand experience, however. If possible, tour the area to learn about the community and explore the different neighborhoods. When choosing your new home, you can draw up a list of choices, each with advantages and disadvantages. This will help you decide where you want to live.
If you have school-age children, you must also learn about the school districts and find an appropriate school. If possible, take your children along when you tour your new neighborhood. Moving is stressful for kids. Knowing what their new home will be like and meeting their neighbors and teachers can go a long way to removing much of the anxiety they may have.
Pick Out Your New Home
Once you’ve researched your new state and different communities, you’ll need to choose a new home. The local rental or housing market and your budget will guide your choices. A qualified realtor who knows the area can be very helpful. You may want to pick a location close to your work or school or one further out that’s close to dining and entertainment venues.
Choose a Moving Day
Once you know where you want to move, it’s time to schedule your move date. If your schedule is flexible, try to avoid moving during the peak moving season from May to September. Over 60 percent of moves occur during this time, when movers and storage facilities are the busiest. By avoiding summertime moves, you’ll lower your moving costs and have more flexibility in setting your schedule.
Clean Up
Moving is a great chance to declutter your home by donating, selling, or discarding items you don’t need to bring. Ridding yourself of unneeded items will reduce your moving costs and make your packing and unpacking much more manageable.
Book a Moving Company
Unless your move is a short distance and you don’t have many belongings, you’ll probably need to hire a moving company. Look for a reputable company with experience in out-of-state moves and the required licenses and insurance. Read reviews and ask for references to ensure you hire a reliable and trustworthy company.
The U.S. Department of Transportation must license movers that handle interstate moves for commercial transport of passengers or cargo across state lines. You might also consider movers certified by the American Trucking Association’s program. Moving companies with this certification have passed a thorough background check and agree to abide by a code of ethics and honorable business practices.
You’ll want to select at least three moving companies to consider. Contact each one and get quotes for moving your household goods. Also, ask about insurance options and any additional services you might need, like packing and storage. All Around Moving Services Company, Inc., is the right choice for that.
Start Packing
Although moving companies can also pack for you, you can save money by packing some of your belongings. You can even get free moving boxes. Keep careful records while you’re packing, and label your boxes with the contents and the rooms they belong in. This will make it easier when it comes time to unpack later. Also, prepare a box of essential items you’ll need in the first week after moving, such as medications, toiletries, clothes, and bedding.
Change Your Address
Remember to notify required agencies of your change of address. This includes your banks, cell phone provider, and insurance companies. Do this several weeks in advance to allow time for your address to update. Cancel services you won’t need after moving, such as local utilities and gym membership. Contact your new home’s local utility companies to arrange services to start when you move.
Notify the Postal Service at least two weeks before your move by submitting a change of address request. Don’t forget to notify your friends and family of your new address.
Settle in to Your New Home
Once you’ve moved long distance into your new home and unpacked and arranged your belongings, take time to get familiar with the area. Explore your new neighborhood. Many people lose social contact after moving, so find out about local activities you can join to start making new friends. Remember to register your car and update your driver’s license.
We hope you found this post, Moving Across State Lines useful. Be sure to check out our post, Moves Crossing State Lines in USA for more great information.
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