On average, moving out of state costs between $2,200 and $5,700. Making a plan in advance is the best way of cutting costs down to the bare minimum.
Read on for our top tips for moving out of state.
Key Tips For Moving Out Of State
When you’re planning a move, think of it like a business plan. You need to look at the big picture, set strict dates for how and when you’re going to move, and figure out how much everything is going to cost.
Tip #1: Get To Know Your Destination
It’s easy to be drawn in by flashy brochures and promising ads about the prospects of living in a new city. But moving to a new city in a new state brings with it a lot of unknowns.
You’re going to be living and working there, so you need to know you’ll enjoy it. Do everything you can to learn what it’s really like to live in a new state:
- Speak to friends and family who have lived in your new city
- Spend a weekend visiting to get a feel for the city
- Read reviews online about what city life is like
- Ask around on social media for honest opinions
Tip #2: Plan Your Move
You may have moving dates set in stone already – particularly if you’re finalizing the paperwork to sell your home. In any case, you need to start planning your move as far in advance as you can.
You’ll need a moving budget that covers moving costs, security deposits, storage fees, and any unexpected expenses. Your timeline needs to be aligned with employment contracts, and you’ll need to take care of legalities (below) as well. In particular, consider the following:
- Check laws about pets
- Find out how to register and change your address
- Organize and pack your furniture
- Decide on a moving date
- Plan around school, college, and work
- Order moving supplies
- Consider throwing away old furniture and things
- Arrange temporary accommodation
Tip #3: Find the Right Moving Company
Moving out of state isn’t cheap – but finding the right moving company puts your mind at ease. Ask around for referrals and check the credentials of your moving company, This is an essential step, whether you’re looking for Honolulu, Anchorage, or dallas moving companies. Remember: They’ll be safeguarding your possessions for several days.
You can click here to learn more about long-distance moving and how to choose the right moving company for your needs.
Tip #4: Take Care of the Legalities
Crossing state lines has legal implications. When you move, you’ll need to change your car registration, voter registration, and address. Certain outlier circumstances, such as divorce proceedings, criminal convictions, and medical conditions can complicate your out-of-state move.
Remember that transporting certain possessions, such as firearms, medications, and licensed equipment, can require permits or approvals when crossing state lines. Event mundane things like your houseplants can have regulations attached to them.
Tip #5: Have a Contingency Plan Ready
If all goes well, your moving checklist will run smoothly and you’ll be in your new home and ready to start unpacking.
But sometimes things don’t go according to plan. You might not get the keys to your new home in time, somebody might fall ill, or something might prevent you from traveling on your moving date.
That’s why it’s wise to have a backup plan at the ready. Above all, make an outline for temporary accommodation for you and your family, and look into storage arrangements for your possessions.
Make Your Best Move
Keep these tips for moving out of state when you’re making plans. Don’t forget to check your legal status, have your contingency at the ready, and everything will go smoothly.
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