The Ultimate Moving to Another State Checklist

Furthermore, an extensive list will consist of big and small tasks that cover every step of relocation, from packing up your belongings to transferring utilities and collecting essential documents. To help you start the new adventure as soon as possible, we made an ultimate checklist that will swiftly guide you through the relocation.

Start Planning More Than a Few Weeks in Advance

Are you wondering What to do before moving to another state? The simple answer is – start planning. Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done. This way, you will easily track your relocation’s progress and stay focused on the job before you. Write down everything, no matter how small it sounds, because sometimes people in a rush tend to forget the most obvious things like changing the address or packing chargers.

Moving to a New State Checklist Should Have a Budget Section

Thinking about the move will bring up questions like How much money should you save up before moving to another state. The answer will depend on many factors, like where you are going, how much stuff do you have, the company you hire, and the time of the year. That’s why one of the first things you should do is go over your budget. Write down every expense possible. When you have it all on paper, it will be easy to track down your expenses, cut some costs, and save money.

Priority on Moving to Another State Checklist: Hiring Long Distance Movers

Let’s face it, picking up your entire life and relocating it to another location can’t be easy nor simple, so why do it on your own? Hiring a long-distance moving company will significantly lower your stress levels and speed up the whole move. Professionals will take care of all the heavy lifting while you are tying up loose ends.

However, finding a reputable cross-country moving company that will handle your relocation professionally requires a bit of research. Go online and type “long distance movers near me”, and make sure you check the credentials and reviews of the top picks. To avoid being scammed, look for a company that is certified, fully licensed, and insured.

Take Advantage of Different Relocation Services Cross Country Movers Offer

When you finally set your mind on long distance movers, it is time to consider what kind of assistance you actually need. Basic long distance moving services will ensure your items are transported from old to a new location. However, you can also opt for an array of additional services, from getting full coverage moving insurance to professional car shipping.

If you don’t want to box up all of your belongings, choose a packing service, and movers will bring high-quality boxes and supplies and take care of your stuff. Also, check if the professionals offer storage units just in case your home is not ready by the time you need to move. All of these will speed up your relocation process and lower your stress levels.

Moving Across the Country Checklist Should Have a Strategic Packing Plan

Are you DIYing the whole move? Because if you are, boxing up everything you own will be a huge part of the process, and it can be a lot to handle. That’s why creating an efficient and strategic packing plan is a must. Firstly, you should make an inventory list, go over all the things you own, see just how many boxes and other packing supplies you need. Also, write down if some bulkier furniture needs disassembling.

After you put everything on paper, think about the packing order. Start with items you won’t necessarily use during the relocation, then work your way up to the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom essentials.

Checklist for Moving Out of State Should Have a Special Day Dedicated to Decluttering

One way or another, most people accumulate a lot of useless junk when they live in one place for a while. Bringing all of that stuff to a new home is pointless, and it can affect your overall budget. That’s why you should consider decluttering.

If you already created an inventory list and wrote down all the stuff you have, it is time to sort out items you don’t use. Those can be some sweaters you grew out of, old chairs, the TV you no longer use. Then make three piles – keep, donate/sell, and throw away. Call a charity and schedule a pickup, have a day for a garage sale, and earn some money, and you will get rid of extra belongings in no time.

If you get overwhelmed by the whole process, take a look at the video below because it offers some useful tips on how to speed up decluttering.

Moving to a New State Checklist Will Be Useful When You Are Collecting Important Documents

Besides thinking about the logistics of the move itself, there are so many other things you should consider. Luckily, if you decide to hire long distance movers, they will take care of your belongings while you are dealing with other important stuff like collecting documents.

These important documents will include financial and medical records. If you are relocating with kids, you will also need their school reports. Plus, personal records for every family member and property-related documents. Those relocating with pets are required to have pet licenses. Depending on the location you are going to, you’ll need different documents. That’s why you should check if there is breed-specific legislation beforehand.

On top of that, don’t forget to officially change your address. Start by visiting the USPS website and notifying the post office about the change. Then, if you are a receiver of Social Security disability retirement or survivor benefits, you should let your SSA know about the change of address. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) comes next. You can contact the IRS directly and change the information. Luckily, all of these can be done online, so you won’t have to spend too much time running around from one place to another trying to update your information.

Don’t Forget to Schedule the Transfer of the Utilities

After you made a binder with all essential documents and notified important institutions about the change of location, transferring utilities is the next task in line. You wouldn’t want to start unpacking in a home that doesn’t have basic utilities like water, electricity, and heating. That’s why you should find and contact local providers and schedule for them to turn on the utilities at least two days before you move in. Furthermore, if you are renting a place, you might not have to worry about scheduling anything since the landlord will probably take care of the utilities. Also, contact your current providers and schedule for them to turn off the utilities in your old home on the day you are moving out.

Research and Get to Know the New Location Before the Move

You probably did a little bit of digging when deciding where to move. However, after you reached a final decision and started the relocation process, it is time for some additional research on your new state. Get informed about the cost of living, crime rates, and weather.

Additionally, check out state laws because there are still some weird ones in use. For example, you wouldn’t want to be caught pumping your own gas in New Jersey because this violation can cost you up to $250. Also, it is illegal to transport alcohol bought in other states across the border into Pennsylvania. Plus, you can get in trouble in Tennessee if you share login credentials for the streaming services with people who don’t live with you.

The next best thing to do is visiting the chosen location. Take advantage of this opportunity and check out the neighborhoods and the overall vibe of the place. Explore and ask locals about some pros and cons of living there. If you are relocating to the big city, pay attention to traffic and public transportation options. Gather as much information as possible because that will help you pick the best neighborhood to settle in.

House-Hunting Should Be a Part of Moving Out of State Checklist

No matter your reasons for relocation, finding a roof over your head will always be a priority. That’s why start looking for accommodation as soon as you set your mind on a city. Browse websites like AreaVibes, and check out the offer on the market. However, before hiring a real estate agent to help you, figure out whether you are renting or buying, how many rooms you need, what are the top amenities your new home should have.

Furthermore, before signing a lease or a mortgage looking into everything from prices to crime rates and entertainment options in the vicinity. If you are relocating with kids, you’ll probably seek accommodation in a good school district. However, if you are relocating alone in pursuit of a job, you should look for a place near the business district.

Looking for a Job Is an Unavoidable Part of Every Relocation

Having steady incomes is something to think about no matter if you are relocating halfway across the country or the world. Suppose you are not relocating because your firm is sending you to a new location, meaning you will need a new job.

Start looking for one as soon as you decide to move. Keep in mind that networking is the first step in finding a dream job, especially when you are seeking employment in a different location. Go online and create a LinkedIn profile, connect with people, and send out a few resumes. Depending on the job entry, the selection process might last up to a month, so you should start job hunting as soon as possible.

A Final Part in a Checklist for Moving to Another State Should Be Making a Farewell Party

One of the most emotionally draining parts of the relocation is saying goodbye to your friends and family. Emotions will run high, and to avoid slipping into depression or anxiety, make a day out of saying goodbye, and the best way to do it is to organize a farewell party.

Call your loved ones and spend some time with them, answer all of their questions, ensure them you’ll keep in touch, and make a plan to see each other again soon. When you know you have the support of family and friends, it will be easy to embark on the adventure that is relocating to a different state.