If you’re planning an out-of-state move, you may feel overwhelmed by how many things are on your to-do list. Not only do you have to find long-distance movers, but you also have to pack and organize your things, sell unwanted items, and secure a new lease or home in your new state.
The time required to plan your move can be as long as or short as your schedule allows, but preferably, it will be anywhere from 3-6 months in advance. The estimated cost will heavily depend on the distance and the location of your move. Let’s delve into how to plan a relocation to another state!
What Materials Will You Need to Arrange an Interstate Move?
Before you begin the planning process for your move, make sure that you collect all of the necessary materials.
You’ll need:
- Folder or binder to keep relevant paperwork organized
- Packing tape
- Packing blankets
- Boxes
- Bubble wrap
- Marker or box labels
Before You Begin Planning
In the ideal situation, you will have at least 3-6 months between deciding that you want to move and when the movie takes place. But life has a way of throwing curveballs, and you may need to scramble last-minute to get your items together.
Tips on How to Plan an Interstate Move
What to consider when moving out of state depends on many logistical factors. Are you moving to a neighboring state, or are you moving across the country? You’ll also want to factor in your new living situation. If you’re selling your property, you may want to consider renting in your new city instead of buying right away. This can help give you more time to explore different neighborhoods and feel more settled without rushing into a huge financial decision.
Generally speaking:
- Begin the packing process early
- Create a to-do checklist
- Ask for help from your friends and family
- Expect the unexpected, hiccups are part of moving
Safety Considerations
There are safety considerations to keep in mind during your move as well:
- Be mindful that many people will be asking for your personal information during the moving process. Be cautious about who you’re giving your information to.
- Box labels can give away what’s inside each box. Consider numbering your boxes and making a log of which number corresponds to which box items.
Steps to Take When Moving to Another State
The steps to take when moving to another state may seem overwhelming, but as long as you follow the below steps, you’ll be in excellent shape!
See the competitors’ examples to single out 10-15 steps. Describe each one in up to 100 words. Where possible, use bullet points. Make sure to include hiring a professional moving team as one of the steps.
#1 Visit Your New State & City
It’s highly recommended to take at least one trip to your new city to get your bearings and explore different neighborhoods. Consider doing some research ahead of time to ensure you hit the areas that you’ll like the most. Explore different restaurants, museums, tourist attractions, and more to get excited about your new city!
#2 Research Schools
In the case that you have school-aged children, you’ll want to conduct your research on different schools in your new neighborhood. If you’re planning to send your kids to public school, keep in mind that you’ll need to live in a particular area to do so. You can use various school rating tools to conduct your research to see what schools have the best reputation in your new area. Make sure to get your kids enrolled if you’re moving during the school year.
#3 Start Budgeting
It’s never too early to start budgeting for your out-of-state move! Did you know that the average cost for hiring out-of-state movers is approximately $4,980? Consider reaching out to your employer to see if they will cover any of your moving costs. Even if you’re trying to save money by opting for a DIY move instead of hiring movers, you’ll still need to factor in expenses such as paying for a truck rental, moving supplies, gas, and other expenses that quickly add up. Start by determining how much you are willing and able to spend on your move, followed by listing out your specific moving expenses. Always set extra money aside for unexpected expenses.
#4 Secure Your New Place to Live
Ideally, you’ll be able to secure your new lease or home before you move. It will be incredibly stressful to get to your new city and try to find a new place to live simultaneously. If needed, you can always rent for the first 3-6 months in your new city to get acclimated and explore different areas. When you’re ready, you can hire a realtor or leasing agent who can help you get a better understanding of the areas that you should be looking at. Your realtor should also be able to assist you with legalities and paperwork to reduce your stress.
#5 Research Moving Companies
We may be biased, but never underestimate the importance of hiring the right team of movers. One of the most important tips on moving to another state is to hire professional movers to help you. Finding a reputable and trustworthy moving company can significantly lighten your load of stress and help you feel more in control of your move. Never rush into hiring a company, either. After all, they will be responsible for safely transporting all of your belongings from one state to another. This is no small task! Always research reviews and get recommendations from friends and family when it comes to finding a reputable moving company.
#6 Look Into Storage Spaces
If you won’t immediately be moving into a new space, you may not have a safe location to store your items and furniture. Storage space in your new city is an ideal solution to the issue of not knowing where to house your items. Renting a short-term storage unit can help you feel more relaxed about the buying or renting process as it buys you additional time. Plus, many storage spaces are affordable and offer deals on the initial months that you need the space.
#7 Choose a Moving Date
The next step in how to plan to move out of state is to officially decide on a moving date! Many situational factors will impact this date; your work schedule, family obligations or concerns, weather, and more. The timing of your move can also have an impact on the cost. If you choose to move on a weekend, holiday, or during the summer, the moving demand will be higher, resulting in a slightly more expensive move. Conversely, moving on a weekday during the off-season can help you save money.
#8 Order Moving Supplies
Once you’ve decided on a date, now’s the time to order your moving supplies. As a tip, we always recommend ordering more boxes and tape than you’ll think you’ll need. You may be surprised to learn how quickly you burn through your initial supplies as you start loading boxes. Aim to order all of your moving supplies at least one month before your move so you can gradually start to pack rooms. It will be less stressful than a last-minute packing frenzy.
#9 Strategize Your Packing Plan
Before you dig into packing when your supplies arrive, make sure to put some thought into your packing strategy. You’ll still need access to items such as dishes, silverware, clothes, shower essentials, etc., leading up to the move. Only begin packing the items that you know you won’t need over the next few weeks. Non-essential items may include books, off-season clothes, electronics you don’t use daily, decorations, or excess shoes.
#10 Make Your Travel Arrangements
The next thing on your to-do list for moving out of state is to make your travel arrangements. Depending on the distance of your move, you may either be booking plane tickets or renting a truck to help haul your items. Other travel arrangements to consider include making a hotel reservation if you’ll need to break up your drive into multiple days. Keep in mind that it could take certain moving services multiple days to get you your items, so it’s never a bad idea to have backup housing options booked ahead of time.
#11 Cancel or Transfer All Memberships
Consider whether you have an existing gym membership or another similar membership that you’ll need to cancel. Orders with auto-delivery are another thing you’ll want to keep in mind. Many monthly memberships need at least one month’s notice before they can officially be canceled, so always reach out as soon as possible. If your new city has the same establishments, you can simply transfer your membership to your new location.
#12 Notify Schools and Transfer Records for Both Kids & Pets
Are you moving out of state with school-aged children? Make sure that you contact your kids’ schools to have their records transferred in addition to your pets’ medical records. You may want to consider reaching out to your kids’ new school to see if they need any paperwork to enroll officially. Other important documents may include recommendation letters and evidence of immunizations to send to your children's new school.
#13 Discuss the Move with Your Kids
Here’s additional advice on moving to another state. If you haven’t done so already, make sure to take the time to discuss the movie with your kids. After all, this is a huge life change for them, and they may feel overwhelmed. It’s ideal for looping your kids in as early as possible to give them enough time to process the upcoming move. This also allows them enough time to properly say goodbye to their teachers and friends. If your kids are young, you can read their books about moving to help approach the topic in a friendly and loving manner.
#14 Schedule and Transfer Utilities
This is an important step! Make sure to reach out to your current utility companies and let them know about your upcoming move. This includes services such as your cable and internet, water and sewer, gas, electricity, and your security system. In the case that you already have a new address in your new state, you can transfer your utilities. You can also simply cancel your old accounts and reach out to new companies in your area as soon as you know your new address.
#15 Pack Your Essentials Suitcase & Prepare for the Big Day!
As the big day approaches, make sure to finalize your boxes and put together your suitcase of essential items. Ideally, you’ll pack a bag that has one week’s worth of essentials such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, snacks, and first aid supplies in the case of an emergency. You’ll be thankful that you have this suitcase with you when you arrive at your new home or apartment!
Alliance Moving Is Ready to Take on Your Interstate Move!
Alliance Moving & Storage knows that the moving process can be incredibly overwhelming without the right team on your side. Professional movers can significantly reduce your stress and take on the work for you! Whether you’re moving down the street or across the country, our professional and reliable team is up for the task! Our moving and storage services have assisted countless individuals and families with their moving needs.
For a free quote for your upcoming out-of-state move, reach out to us today!
.jpg)