Are you planning a move out of state? If so, get ready for an adventure. Moving out of state can be exciting, exhilarating, challenging, and stressful, all at the same time. You may have a lot of things on your mind, especially if you’re moving some distance and you’re not that familiar with your new surroundings.
You have many things to prepare for, from finding a new home to making travel and moving arrangements. This post presents a moving out-of-state checklist to help you along. It lists some essential steps and tips to help you ensure a successful move.
Step 1: Learn About Your New Location
We made this the first step because it informs many of the tasks that follow. For example, the neighborhood you’re moving to will guide your plans. The climate at your new home will help you decide what clothes and other items to bring along.
So, before making any other plans, take some time to research your new surroundings. Find out about the cost of living, weather, highways and traffic conditions, public transportation options, and local amenities. If you have school-age children, learn about the school districts. You may have different choices about where to live, each with its pros and cons. Talk with friends, coworkers, or neighbors who live in the area or have in the past. And tour the area in person to get familiar with the community and explore the different neighborhoods. This research will help you determine where you want to live.
Step 2: Pick Your New Home
Once you’ve looked around the area, you’ll need to choose a new home based on the housing or rental market in the area and your current situation. A qualified realtor who knows the area can help immensely and even let you know about homes not yet on the open market. You’ll want to visit each prospective home to get a feel for the area and what you need to do to get settled in your new home.
Step 3: Set Your Move Date
Once you know where you want to move, it’s time to schedule your move date. This will depend on your work schedule, your or your kids’ school schedules, and weather conditions. If you plan to hire a moving company and your schedule is flexible, try to avoid moving during the peak moving season, typically from May to September. Peak moving season is when movers are the busiest and have the highest rates. By avoiding this time, you’ll lower your moving costs and have more choices about which moving company to use.
Step 4: Declutter
Moving is a great chance to lighten your load. Before you start preparing to move, take some time to declutter your home. Donate, sell, or discard items that you no longer need or want. This will reduce your moving costs and give you a fresh start in your new home.
Step 5: Hire a Moving Company
If you plan to hire a moving company, start researching and comparing quotes as soon as possible. Look for a reputable company with experience in out-of-state moves. Read reviews and ask for references to ensure you hire a reliable and trustworthy company. Verify that each company has the required licenses and insurance for out-of-state moves.
You’ll want to select at least three moving companies for further consideration. Contact each one and get quotes and timelines for moving your household goods. Don’t forget to ask about insurance options and any additional fees for packing and storage.
Step 6: Start Packing
Although moving companies offer packing services, you can save money by packing some items yourself. You can even get free moving boxes. When packing, label your boxes with the contents and the room they belong in. This will make it easier when it comes time to unpack later. Don’t forget to pack a separate box of essentials that you’ll need immediately upon arrival, such as medications, toiletries, some clothes, and bedding.
Step 7: Notify Service Companies and Change Your Address
Don’t forget to notify your service providers of your move, such as your banks, credit card and insurance companies, and any magazines you’re subscribed to. Remember it may take several weeks for your address to update. Cancel any services you won’t need in your new location, such as local utilities, gym memberships, and landscaping services. If you have kids in school, inform the schools of your move.
Change your address with the Postal Service at least two weeks before your move. This will ensure that your important mail is forwarded to your new address. You will also want to notify your friends and family of your new address. Also contact the local utility companies at your new home to arrange services when you move.
Step 8: Have a Safe Move
Now that you’ve accomplished all the necessary steps for a successful move, you can relax a bit, knowing you’re prepared to relocate to your new home. If you plan to travel by car, have it checked out to be sure it’s ready for the long trip. Be sure to bring a roadside emergency kit and snacks for the road. Bring along snacks and games for the kids as well.
Step 9: Settle in to Your New Home
Once you arrive and move into your new home, take some time to settle in. Unpack your essentials box and arrange the rest of your belongings. Look around your new neighborhood and find out about local clubs and other activities you can join. Don’t forget to register your car and update your driver’s license.
Moving out of state can be overwhelming, but by following these steps and tips, you can make your move a success and start your new life on the right foot.
We hope you found this post, Moving Out of State Checklist: Steps & Tips, useful. Be sure to check out our post, Tips You Must Know When Moving Out of State for more great information.
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