More and more Americans have decided to relocate to a different state in recent years. Every relocation is time-consuming and stressful, so moving out of state can be a big challenge for a person, especially if this is your first interstate moving. So if you are wondering how to move to another state, then you’re in the right place because with these useful tips, your relocation will go smoothly and without stress.
Is It a Good Idea to Move Out of State?
No matter what your reasons to move are, you are probably questioning this decision and thinking whether it is the right thing to do. It is a perfectly normal reaction to these circumstances because you are relocating your entire life. But it doesn’t have to be difficult, so many families decide to perform this step. One of the benefits of moving is that you can start fresh and change some things in your life for the better. For instance, if you’re moving from a small town to a big city, relocation will open new opportunities, like a better job market or better schooling options for your children.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Move Out of State?
Well, the answer depends on many factors and on your willingness to do things yourself. You can cut back some costs by trying the DIY approach. On the other hand, if you do all of this yourself, you will have to take a few days off work, so you will lose money and time. In the end, rely on professionals might be the most cost-effective solution.
What to Do Before You Move Out of State
Every relocation is complicated and challenging, especially if you’re relocating out of state. But with the right preparation and organization, it doesn’t have to be a total drag. So if you wish to have stress-free moving, you will have to start your preparation at least one month in advance, if not sooner. So the first thing you need to do is talk with your family and set a moving day.
Moving Out of State Checklist
After you set your relocation day and you picked a place you want to relocate to, it is time to start your preparation. You can make your own checklist when moving to a new state, or you can follow our simple guidelines listed below:
- Find a place to live – Whether you’re moving to another state alone or with family, research the neighborhoods and decide if you prefer (and have means for) renting or buying a place.
- Research schools, do this online, or ask your friends if they have some advice. When looking for a house, proximity to school can greatly impact your new location.
- Notify schools about transfer if you’re moving your family to another state, a school should be notified immediately to make all transfer arrangements on time.
- Make travel arrangements, and if you’re not planning to go on a road trip to your new location, you should make all the travel arrangements on time. Buy your airplane ticket in advance so you don’t lose this date and you will save yourself some money as well.
- Transfer your mail and utilities if it is possible, transfer your utilities one week before a big day. Call your gas and electricity provider to make sure your utilities are up and running when you arrive.
Research Different Moving Companies to Find the Right One
Now that you made all arrangements, it is time to research movers you want to hire. First thing first, search online for movers and check if they are legit. Any of the legit state-to-state movers must have a USDOT number, so if your company of choice doesn’t have this number, they are probably a fraud. After you have done your research, you should contact at least three companies to give you an in-home estimate. So you can compare prices and choose the one that suits your needs.
Prepare for Moving Out of State
After research, you should talk with your movers about the cross-country moving services they provide and make all the arrangements on time. If you’re planning to invest in a packing service, you should make an inventory list of things you want professionals to pack at least a week in advance or, even better, before they come to do an in-home estimate. If your new place is not ready, you can rent a storage unit from your company of choice and place your belongings there until you settle in and wait for your stuff to arrive at your address.
Tips for Moving Out of State in the Best Way
Moving state to state is often a daunting task, but good organization helps a lot. Here are some additional tips to breeze you through the process:
● Make a budget – Do this before you start other preparations. You can ask interstate movers for a free estimate, to have some idea which service you can get.
- Hire professional interstate movers – When talking about how to move out of state, hiring movers is the first step toward a successful and stress-free move.
- Ship your car – Unless you plan on driving to a new place, you will have to make arrangements with your movers about auto transport, so you have time to prepare your car for shipping.
- Pack your essentials – Before the big day, you should pack your moving essentials in a carry-on bag or in a separate box. Here you will put all the things you need daily, like your toiletry bag, underwear, and clothes, for a few days.
Check this video for more tips on relocating to another state.
How to Pack a Truck in the Best Way Possible
If you decide to save some money and to rent a truck, you should know how to pack it, so your belongings don’t get broken or damaged. First, all large items like furniture should go first and be fastened with ropes and protected with blankets or sheets. On top of it, smaller objects should go. But if you are not sure how to pack a moving truck, hire professionals to help you.
Do You Know How Much Money Should You Save to Move to a Different State?
If you’re wondering, What is the cheapest way to move out of state? Well, the answer depends on many factors and on your willingness to do things yourself. You can cut back some costs like packing yourself or renting a truck only and driving independently. On the other hand, if you do all of this yourself, you will have to take a few days off work, so you will lose money and time, and maybe your savings will be affected significantly. So maybe in the long run hiring a professional to help you is a better option.
