Interstate moves have unique challenges. Here are some tips for moving to a different state.
1. Develop a Budget
Having a moving budget in place before a household relocation is essential. For instance, you’ll likely pay more for professional moving services when moving out of state than for local moves, so plan accordingly. You’ll also need to budget for items such as obtaining new driver’s licenses and car registrations, paying deposits at different utility companies, and buying products for your new home.
2. Research Your New City
One of the most exciting aspects of moving to a different state is learning about another city and culture. Research the new city online, learning about its history, foods, and what makes it unique.
Ideally, you’ll be able to visit your destination. On that visit, you can explore different neighborhoods to find one that suits your lifestyle. And you can locate the nearest schools, dentists, gyms, doctors, and veterinarians. If you can’t visit, you can use tools such as Google Maps satellite to take a tour, read Yelp reviews of merchants, and check out local real estate websites.
3. Check the Cost of Living Differences
You’ll need to understand the cost differentials to develop a meaningful budget in your new home. Use a cost of living comparison calculator to know how the new city compares with the old one. Remember to include items such as state and local taxes in your budget.
4. Find a Home
Search for a new home. You can use local real estate agents, Zillow, or RentCafe. Remember that each state has laws and quirks, such as seller disclosures or tenants’ bills of rights.
If the timing for being able to get into your home and your move fail to coincide precisely, you may need to store your possessions for a while. Most professional movers offer storage services.
5. Declutter
Sorting and removing things you no longer use is essential in every move, especially out-of-state ones. You can substantially lower the cost of an out-of-state move by decluttering.
A few ways to declutter are:
- Look carefully to see if your furniture fits in the new space.
- Consider parting with vehicles if the new city is walkable or has excellent public transportation.
- Dispose of excess electronics.
6. Deal With Healthcare
Your current doctor will probably be out of the network with your new insurance. Even if they are in the network, you won’t want to travel back to your old state to visit them.
Check for new providers working with your insurance in your new state. In some cases, you may need to find a new insurance provider. Be sure to stock up on prescriptions in case you experience a lag in finding a new physician.
7. Change Government Documents
Once in your new state, you must change documents such as your driver’s license, passport, car, and voter registration. Also, file a change of address form at the post office with all the magazine subscriptions you wish to keep.
8. Plan to Make Connections
Consider how you’ll meet people and connect in your new area. One way to meet people who share your interests is to join a club or organization. You could also visit a nearby park or garden and talk to your neighbors. Finally, an open house soon after the move is a great way to get to know your new neighbors.
Help With Your Interstate Move
Our professional moving company can help you plan your interstate move. Contact us today for a free quote.