Moving out of state into another can be one of the most stressful situations. Additionally, it can be expensive, overwhelming and draining to sort, pack, move and unpack everything once at you final destination. However, with the proper preparation it doesn’t have to be like this. The following tips won’t make the process easy but it will make it a little easier.
1. Discover Your New City
Before you move to your new city, it would probably be wise to know as much as possible about where you’re moving to. Wherever you are moving can make or break your experience in a new state.
When researching your new city we recommend you:
- Check out local schools (if you have kids)
- Discover average commute time do see which routes are congested or more open.
- If you are unable to go to your new destination we suggest looking up images and exploring via Google Street View.
- Make sure you are safe and use a site like NeighborhoodScout to research local crime rates.
2. Cost Of Living
It is important to understand and budget for your new cost of living when moving out of state. You will want to understand the differences in housing, transportation, food, clothes, etc. You should also look into the differences in state taxes such as property, sales and income tax. Understanding as much as you can will help you from being blindsided by the cost of living differences.
3. Plan A Visit
In an ideal world, you would be able to take a trip to your new city and explore as much as possible. This is important if you think you have found the perfect place to live to ensure that it really is your dream home and city!
4. Secure Your Moving & Storage Options
Actually moving your physical items will likely be the biggest expense and most difficult process when moving out of state. If you plan ahead on this section, you will surely have a much easier time moving.
We recommend you:
- Hire professional movers to pack up, load, drive and unload your truck.
- Rent your own truck and beg friends and family to help you at least load up or hire local movers to load/unload.
You will also need to keep an eye on your budget when choosing your moving and storage options. Moving costs can quickly add up, especially if you have the wrong movers. Make sure you are aware of each and every cost to ensure you are not being blindsided by random costs.
5. Time To Downsize
Before you actually leave your current home and city, it would be best if you sorted through all your items and got rid of as much unnecessary items as possible. The less stuff you have, the easier and cheaper it is going to be to move. Since you are going through everything to pack, why not spend a little extra time and get rid of unwanted or unusable stuff?
6. Update Your Address
Don’t forget to update all your information when you are moving, especially out of state. You should submit a Change-of-Address form with the USPS that will forward all mail from your old address to your new home. You should also go online and make sure you change/update all mailing addresses on all accounts including Netflix, your banks, credit cards, etc.
7. Get Your Utilities Ready
The last thing anyone wants is to arrive at their new home to discover there is no heat or electricity let alone water. Take the time to speak with your new utility company(ies) to set up accounts for your utilities like water and sewer, garbage, internet, etc. After moving all day (or more) you will want to unpack and finally enjoy your home which will be hard without any utilities.
Moving interstate can be a tiresome and tedious task but when you are prepared, especially early, it can make the process just a little bit easier. Hopefully these tips will help you have a smooth and less stressful move. Remember to enjoy the process because soon you will be living in your new home, making new friends and exploring a whole new world. Enjoy
If you are moving locally or far, contact The Moving Guys for all your moving needs today!
