How to Move to a New State

So, you're planning a move to another state. How exciting! You must now be wondering how your new life will be, including all the fun experiences you anticipate having. But here's the thing —  moving out of state isn't something you just wake up one day and decide to do. It needs early and adequate preparation to avoid unnecessary stress and issues during your move. 

Moving to a different state is time-consuming and demands a lot of planning and patience. You have to research and decide where you intend to move, find a place to live temporarily in the new state when necessary, and make the necessary considerations, which include making new friends. 

Here is a detailed guide we prepared to help you with your out-of-state move and make it easy, seamless, and efficient. 

Research and Decide Where to Move

We highly recommend knowing more about where you have decided to move to before moving out of your current state. For example, when looking for a nice place to enjoy drinks or delicious food, you often pop into a pub or eatery just for a brief assessment. It's the same with checking out your new neighborhood. Make at least one trip to your new city for a better feel of the place and its various neighborhoods. 

If you can't visit your new location in person, nothing stops you from conducting remote research through internet searches and review sites. For example, try using Google Street View to explore neighborhoods. Walk Score will also help you establish how navigable your new town is by the various modes of transport. When researching your new city, remember to consider the following:

• Check out local schools if you have children. GreatSchools.org can help you with that.
• Research crime rates, demographics, real estate, and trends on websites like Neighborhood Scout. 

Considerations For a Hassle-Free Move

Your move can be exciting or troublesome depending on what you prioritize. A hassle-free move means moving without any problems or bother. As a result, moving usually requires setting aside some funds to help you get started. From experience, these considerations are the best for a stress-free move to a new state.

Extra Costs 

The chances are high that you will need extra funds at some point. Therefore, the recommendation is to create a moving budget that sets aside approximately 10% more than your original budget to act as a buffer, covering unexpected costs during the move. 

Living Expenses

When moving without a job secured first, ensure you have saved around 3 to 6 months of living expenses. For example, suppose your monthly rent will be $1,000, and your living expenses will cost another $1,000. In that case, you should save anywhere between $6,000 and $12,000 before moving.

The Cost of Hiring Movers

How much are you willing to spend on your big move? If your budget can accommodate high-end services from a reputable moving firm, go for it. But if you have a tight budget, consider a reputable moving company that can customize a moving plan based on your budget. 

Other Moving Costs

There is also the question of other moving costs, such as those linked to hotel stays and meals out while you and your family are away from home. Also, consider your plan for shipping your automobile across the country. Other moving costs worth your consideration include utility deposits and connection fees. 

Tips On Planning For a Move Out-of-State

To be honest, most people don't love everything involved with the process of moving. However, the good news is that if you are willing to research early in advance and manage the details, you will likely have a seamless move. The following tips will help you.

Hire Quality Long-Distance Movers

A move out-of-state requires you to look for long-distance movers as they are often most suitable for handling interstate moves. Furthermore, a full-service moving firm will make the entire process quicker and easier if your move is large. Full-service moving companies are experienced in preparing for long-distance moves. They will safeguard your valuable items over long distances in transit. Still, the long-distance mover you choose should provide insurance in case of damages along the way and help you understand all the services included in the company terminology. 

Packing 

We strongly advise sticking to the essentials when packing for an out-of-state move. The weather will most likely influence your packing checklist, so scrutinize it. For instance, relocating from the chilly Pacific Northwest to sunny Florida doesn't require you to bring all your winter clothes, snowmobiles, etc. You can sell them instead and eliminate the stress of keeping up with them. 

Organizing Your Move

Staying organized and levelheaded is vital to any interstate move. Begin by creating a moving file to file all the documents you need throughout the move. These moving-related documents include your moving estimate, inventory documentation, a bill of landing, etc. A binder, bin, or box can also hold these documents safely. Filing these documents may not be fun, but they're necessary for a smooth move. 

Checklist Of Post-Move Items

The following are the things you will want to do after moving out of state:

Update Your License

You will want to get a new driver's license and vehicle registration. Depending on your new state and its unique rules for changing this vital information, it can take 10 to 30 days. The recommendation is to make an appointment to speed up the process. We highly recommend checking the required documents and whether you will have to undergo a vision or driving test before going to the DMV. Some states require U.S. citizens to provide proof of citizenship, residence, and social security. 

Update Your Insurance

Another post-move item you should never forget is changing your auto insurance policy address. Depending on your new state, you might pay more or less for insurance. 

Update Your Address

Remember to submit a permanent change-of-address form. The USPS will forward mail from your previous address to the new one. Meanwhile, change your mailing address for your cell phone, retirement, Netflix, and other accounts online, including your financial institutions. In other words, ensure your billing address matches your credit card payments on your online accounts and subscriptions. 

Share Your New Home Address

Moving to a new city doesn't mean forgetting about the family members you left behind and your old friends. Once in a while, they will want to visit you. Therefore, share your new home address with them, so they know where to find you. 

Register to Vote

Get involved in your new city and state by registering to vote. In most states, you can do it online or sign up at a local elections office if you prefer in-person registration. But in most cases, changing your address with the USPS gives you the option of voter registration in your new state. 

Final Remarks

If you follow the above guide from start to finish, you will surely have a cost-effective and smooth move. Because you are now ready to begin budgeting your move, you can give your best long-distance mover a call and choose from unlimited moving capabilities to best suit your budget, thus worrying less about how much movers cost. Schedule a full, white-glove service with an experienced moving crew like Allied Van Lines today!