Let’s face it, moving out of state is a pretty tedious job. And if not done right, it can become even more challenging. Strategic planning is the key to a seamless and hassle-free move.
So, whether you’re a working professional, a fresh graduate, or are simply relocating with your family, we’ve got your back. We’ve compiled an ultimate checklist that would help your relocating process go off without a hitch. Let’s dig in!
1. Secure housing
Finding a new house before relocating is crucial. Don’t even think about moving to a new state if you don’t have a house to live in. Consider renting a house for the first few months to hedge against bad times.
Whether you are buying a home or renting a space to live in, contact a reputable realtor. They would help you find a place that best fits your budget and requirements.
2. Rent a storage unit at your destination
What if your current lease is up and the place you’re planning to move to is not available for the next few days? What if the new place isn’t big enough to accommodate all your belongings?
We’re not trying to trigger your anxiety, but the truth is, things do not always pan out the way we want. So, play it a little safer – rent a storage unit in the state you’re moving to. There are various suitable options for storage units Montgomery al, so if you are moving to Montgomery, you are in luck.
Not only would a storage unit cost you less than the warehouse of a moving company, but your possessions would also be better protected against any theft or damage.
3. Explore your new state
Visit your new state and city before you relocate. By doing so, you’ll get to know more about the location.
Get yourself a guidebook and explore various neighborhoods. An in-person visit would help you get first-hand knowledge about factors that can greatly impact your lifestyle.
4. Set up your moving budget
We hate to say it, but moving out of state costs no less than a fortune. Whether you’re planning to move on your own, or thinking of hiring professional movers to do the job for you, relocating is quite costly.
This is why creating a budget is important. List down the necessary relocation expenses, calculate the net amount you’re capable of spending on the move, and don’t forget to put away some extra money for a rainy day.
If you’re a working professional, you can ask your employer if they offer any relocation packages to make your move cheaper and easier.
5. Find a new school
If you’re a parent to school-going children, it’s wise to start research for a new school beforehand. Search for the best schools in and near you neighborhood.
Once you’ve found a suitable school for your children, inform the current school so they can get in touch with the new one for record-transfer and enrolment protocol procedures. The sooner your child starts going to the new school, the quicker they will fall back into a routine, and fall behind in class.
6. Arrange your travel plans
Make a hotel reservation, rent a car, and book tickets. Don’t forget to mutually decide the day to leave since your family may have other important matters to attend to. An extra tip: don’t move out on weekends as moving companies are usually preoccupied, so are more likely to charge extra. Since not a lot of people travel and move on weekdays, chances are, you’ll be charged much less.
7. Pack necessary items in a separate suitcase
Most likely, it will take some time for your belongings to reach you, so you’ll have to manage without them for a couple of days. And even after you receive them, unpacking can take a few days.
Therefore, pack your essentials like a few outfits and shoes, toiletries, first aid kit, and snacks in a separate suitcase for you to take along on your flight.
8. Get packing and moving supplies
Make all supplies available at least a month before. Essential supplies that can make your packing and moving experience less stressful include cargo straps or rope, packing tape, labeling materials, packing fillers, bubble wrap, and boxes.
You don’t necessarily have to buy boxes, cardboard boxes are available for free at local bookstores, office supply stores, grocery stores, and restaurants.
9. Make arrangements for your car
If you’re moving from one state to another, driving there can be anywhere from ‘a bad idea’ to ‘a catastrophic mistake’ depending on the distance.
The drive can be exhausting, your car can breakdown in the middle of nowhere, and you could get into an accident or some other unfortunate situation. Thus, you need to make some arrangements for your car. Contact a car shipping service or auto transport company.
Depending on your budget, you can select either an enclosed carrier, or an open-air carrier for safe passage. If you’re tight on your budget, an open-air carrier is an ideal option for you. It accommodates numerous cars and is a budget-friendly way of getting your car shipped to your new home.
10. Apply for a driving license
There is no use of getting your car shipped to your new place if you don’t have a valid driving license. When you move to a different state, you are given a grace period to get a new driver’s license issued.
However, no one said that you can’t start the process early. The process in most states is simple, especially for licensed out-of-state drivers. New citizens are required to provide their existing driving license, a form of identification, proof of their social security number, and proof of their residency. Once you provide your documents and get your license, you’re all set to hit the gas!
11. Register your pet
Want to take your pet with you as well? No biggie. Register them with the name of your city. You’ll be asked to vaccinate your pet for the public safety of course. Once done, your pet is all ready to move out with you!
Conclusion
If you’re planning to move out of state, start making your moves now. Our ultimate checklist for moving out of state can work wonders if followed religiously. Remember haste makes waste, so, don’t rush through the process. Take your time and get off to a flying start!
