Ultimate Guide to Relocating to California

You just landed the job of your dreams in one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. The state is known for its sublime weather, great food, and excellent schools, among many other things. You are excited and ready to change to West Coast living, but where do you start? If you are ready to head west, refer to this guide to help your move run as smoothly as possible. 

Visit the State

As a rule, before you move anywhere, you will want to visit your desired destination. Take some time before you move to visit the state. If possible, have a friend show you around. If not, create your own itinerary. Travel brochures can be a great place to start. See the popular attractions, and do not be afraid to try something off the beaten path. You may find a new favorite hole-in-the-wall eatery. 

Find Movers

There are many options when it comes to cross-country movers. Be sure to get three to five quotes before settling on a moving company. Once you have, set your date. Remember moving during the week is almost always cheaper than the weekend. 

Ship Your Car

Believe it or not, there are few places in California where public transportation is more appealing than driving yourself. The city of Los Angeles, for example, is so sprawling it is almost exclusively traversable by car. You will want to bring your vehicle with you, and driving across the country creates logistical troubles. The easiest way to remedy this is to ship your car. 

You may wonder how to ship a car, but it is a simpler process than you may realize. There are several transport options available and a slew of different shipping companies. Do some research and compare quotes to find the right auto shipper for you. 

Switch Your Car Insurance

You know you will want to bring your car. Your job, your home, and surroundings are all new. Why not take the opportunity to take a fresh look at your car insurance. Rates usually vary from region to region, so you want the best car insurance in California you can find. The baseline for coverage in this state is $5,000 for vehicle damage and $15,000 for bodily damage. 

You will also need to register your vehicle and undergo a smog check. For this level of coverage, GEICO is a great option. With low rates, available discounts, and excellent customer service ratings, it is easy to see why. Wawanesa is another great pick. While it scores lower in other states, this company does its best work for Californians. Be sure to call around and get a few quotes. You never know what discounts you may be eligible for, so ask. 

Leave Your Houseplants

California has some extremely strict rules regarding houseplants. It makes it near impossible to import fruit, nuts, pine, and oak trees. Additionally, you may only bring plants raised indoors with commercial potting soil, and citrus plants are banned outright. If you must bring your precious plants, read up on what is allowed, but even then, you may have to leave some behind. 

Become a California Resident

Rules can be quite strict in California, and becoming a resident is no different. You must have a California address and live in the state nine months out of the year for at least one year. Additionally, you must demonstrate two years of financial independence and show intent to remain in the state. This last task can be done by registering your car in California or registering to vote. 

Visit Goodwill

A move is a perfect time to get rid of excess clutter. Take a page from Marie Kondo and identify the items that no longer spark joy. You can donate your old clothes and household items to goodwill for a tax write-off. Additionally, try selling your more valuable items online. It is a great way to put some extra money in your pocket, and you will be grateful when it is time to pay your movers. 

California is a massive, beautiful state. If you are moving for work, be sure to keep an open ear and mind. There is always something new or interesting to do. Use this guide when you move, and do not forget to enjoy the sunshine.