Are you relocating to another state? Moving across state lines can be exhilarating. However, before you can truly enjoy your new life in your new home, a taxing and arduous task awaits your attention, i.e., the moving process.
Moves are always challenging and stressful. But moving across states is even more complicated as it involves a dramatic transition from the life you have known for years to a new, unknown, and demanding one. This transition may seem even more challenging if you don’t plan your move ahead of time. The moving process, from packing stuff, considering moving options, to settling in the new state, may take a toll on you no matter how cucumber cool you may be.
However, you can surmount this tedious challenge with a smart to-do list and planning beforehand. Keep reading to find a list of things that your checklist should have.
Declutter and donate unwanted stuff
The first thing on your to-do list should be decluttering your current home. Separate the things you don’t plan to use anymore and donate them to someone in need. There is no point in carrying stuff from one state to another if it will remain unused in your new home. So, it is better to save your time and energy rather than putting yourself through unnecessary hard work. If you are moving only temporarily and plan on returning to your home state later, you can also keep your belongings in a storage unit. You can scour the internet for top-rated self storage units near your location and stash everything you don’t want to give away. Storage facilities offer customized storage units that not only keep your possessions safe and sound but are also budget-friendly.
Plan your budget
Moves are always expensive. An out-of-state move may cost you a pretty penny in some unexpected ways. So, it is better to plan a budget for your move and spend accordingly. Figure out how much you are willing and able to spend, then list the significant expenses, and finally, put aside an additional sum for unexpected costs. You can also use an online budget calculator to plan your budget. Follow these smart tips to save money on your move:
- Get moving quotes from 3-5 moving companies to get the best price that will work with your budget
- Look for free moving supplies like cardboard boxes from local retailers or utilize the ones you get through amazon deliveries
- Be flexible in the matter of moving timings. Pick a mid-day or mid-week moving time to save money since mover will generally charge more for the weekend
Find packers and movers
After deciding on your budget, you will know whether you can hire movers or not. Professional movers help make your out-of-state move less stressful and hassle-free. You can either scour Google for finding some reputable interstate movers or ask a friend with similar experience for suggestions. Do thorough research on the services, read customer reviews, and most importantly, compare the prices to find the option that best fits your needs. Also, list the items that your movers won’t move beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
If you are running low on cash, resort to cheaper alternatives like renting a moving truck, portable moving container, or a large freight moving trailer.
Search for good schools
Relocating with children? Looking for the best schools in your new state or city must be on the top of your moving out of state checklist. You will most likely have a few options that are close to your neighborhood/county. To find the most reputable schools consider academic curriculum, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, teaching staff, teaching practices, etc., and ask the people for recommendations. After finalizing the list of top-rated schools, schedule an in-person visit to the schools on your list, preferably with your children. Once you find your option, inform the current school about your plans and finalize the necessary documentation.
Pack and sort your stuff
The next thing on your to-do list is sorting out and packing your possessions for the move. Don’t skimp on packing and box up your stuff gradually in a non-tiring manner. To keep the packing process less stressful, stick with a strategy like packing things belonging to a similar category like utensils, toiletries, clothes, etc., together or separating the things that you won’t be using immediately after moving, such as out of season clothes, books, etc. Don’t forget to label each box to avoid confusion while unpacking after the move. Also, make a manual for assembling electronics and furniture, which will come in handy while unpacking. You can also lookup packing tips online to help ease and accelerate the packing process.
Change mailing address and transfer utilities
It’s imperative to change your mailing address before you set out for your new home. Otherwise, your credit card bills and important documents might be at the risk of being lost. So, save your time and register a request online for changing your mailing address.
While you’re at it, contact your utility providers as well. Ring up your service providers early and inform them that you want to transfer utilities to your new residence. You don’t want to move into your new house only to find that there is no internet, electricity, etc.
Update driving license and vehicle registration
If you want to drive in the new state, get your driver’s license updated. Many states require new residents to get a new license within a stipulated time window, so do some work upfront to avoid potential headaches. Also, update your vehicle’s registration and make sure to get your vehicle insurance registered in the new state.
Conclusion
A state-to-state move can be one of the most stressful life events. It can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience for everyone. However, you can make this task less stressful and smooth with tips like planning budget, decluttering, transferring utilities, and packing tips. A smart to-do list like the one above can help ensure that everything stays in order before, during, and after the move. Sticking to this list will make your out-of-state move feel like cutting through a slice of cake.