Moving to Another State Checklist: Your Hassle Free Guide

Around 40 million Americans move homes every year, often to a new state.

Knowing how to prepare for the move makes the process smoother and helps you settle into your new life. Perhaps you’re moving soon and you’re worried that you’ll forget something during the move.

Sound familiar? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our moving to another state checklist.

Visit Your New State

On the top of our moving out of state checklist, start by visiting your desired destination before you permanently leave. This will give you a good understanding of the location, the various neighborhoods, and whether your family will be happy there.

Research online or bring a guide book as you explore the city, you don’t only want to see tourist attractions but local hot spots too.

Find a New Home

One of the most important tips for moving out of state is making sure you have a property ready to move into. Consider leasing an apartment for months so you get a taste of the city and meet locals who can recommend the best neighborhood for you.

You should also contact a realtor who’s an expert in the market and can help you with paperwork during the process. Remember to consider the city’s crime rate and find a neighborhood that has the lowest one so your family is safe.

If you have children, use this time to find the best school districts or specific establishments before moving day.

Have a Job Lined Up

Out of our moving tips, having secured employment is the most crucial one. If your current company isn’t transferring you then reach out to friends who live in the new area or search job sites to find openings in your industry. No luck? Then make sure you have savings to cover three months so you can get by.

Note that every state has specific professional licensing requirements which will affect you if you’re a lawyer, teacher, realtor, or healthcare worker.

Consider the Cost of Living Differences

Prices vary between states. For instance, if you’re moving to California then expect to pay more in rent than in Ohio. You should also consider the climate and how that will affect your utility bills especially if it’s an extremely hot or cold one.

Before you move, have an emergency fund because even if you’re fully prepared, an unexcepted storm or your car breaking down could hinder you and affect your balance.

Find a Moving Company

To find a reputable moving company, research to check out their pricing, customer reviews, and whether clients have filed a complaint with the FMCSA.

Most established movers either perform an in-person inspection or ask for a video of your belongings before giving you a quote. If the movers give you a quote without seeing your belongings or ask for a low price, they’re red flags and you should find a new company.

Not sure how to pack for moving?

It’s wise to create an inventory list as it’ll keep you organized and make it easier for the movers to give you a quote. Because moving services charge depending on the size of the move, streamline as much as possible. You should also inform the moving company about high-value items like heirlooms, antiques, or fine art.

If you’ve got too many belongings, create a sell, donate, and trash pile so you don’t bring unnecessary items to your new place. You can sell your unwanted items on Craigslist or host a garage sale and donate old belongings to charity.

Pick an Early Moving Date

Moving companies are often busy in the summer so move out several days in advance in case they have to reschedule. One of the most effective moving tips is asking the moving service how long the delivery will take and the maximum number of days allowed.

As a general rule, cross-country moves take two-weeks maximum while companies legally have 21 business days to do this. This proves how important it is to agree on a date because you don’t want to be in your new home without your belongings.

Transfer Your Utilities

Before moving day, contact your utility company to say you’re moving cross-country. This includes cable, internet, water, gas, and electricity. If you have a permanent address ready, schedule a transfer and installation state for a hassle-free process.

You should also forward your mail by going to the USPS website, entering your new city, and enter the date of arrival so your snail mail is ready for you.

Get a New Driver’s License

Many states require citizens to update their driver’s license within a specific period. Regardless of whether your new state does this, change your information anyway. You’ll have to do this eventually so you can register to vote.

And if you have a pet, you’ll need to register them with the new city or county so they receive their necessary Rabies shot.

That’s Our Moving to Another State Checklist

Now you know our moving to another state checklist.

It’s wise to visit your new state to see which is the best neighborhood and school district, if necessary. Make sure you have secure employment ready or at least savings to avoid stress. Instead of rushing the house-hunting process, rent a six-month lease so you can familiarize yourself with the city and new state.

Most importantly, hire a reputable moving company as they’ll get you settled in. Happy moving!

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