Moving out of state is a time-consuming process that takes loads of patience, but creating a long-distance moving checklist will help you stay sane as you navigate through the process.
Moving is never easy, but the farther you move, the more details you have to worry about. To make sure you have all of your ducks (or boxes) in a row, you need a moving checklist. Today, we’re helping you put together the ultimate checklist by offering our best tips and tricks for moving out of state.
Visit Your New City and State
One of the first steps when moving to a new state is to take a trip there. This will help you get a good feel for the location and neighborhood you might want to settle down in. One way to learn more about your new city is to bring a guidebook with you, or if you’re staying in a hotel, ask the concierge for suggestions.
You can also find plenty of digital information on travel and review sites on the internet. As you explore your new city, visit local hot spots as well as some under-the-radar gems. Look for places to walk your dog, visit your new neighborhood grocery store, and try out the top local taco shop. Immersing yourself in your new city will help you feel excited about your big move.
Research Your New Neighborhood
Before your move, research your new neighborhood as much as you can. Learn about the local schools in your area. If you have a car, you already know how to get around. But if you plan to use public transportation, it’s good to familiarize yourself with what’s available.
You should also learn more about local crime rates to find a safe neighborhood to call home. Once you’ve selected a location, use you can use The U.S. Census Bureau to learn more about income levels, ethnicities, ages, and other social characteristics in your specific area.
Budget Accordingly
Long-distance moving isn’t cheap, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. Keep this in mind if you’re planning on hiring professional movers. Look up different moving companies to see how competitive rates are. A popular moving company may cost much more than a local small business.
Creating a budget is the best way to prepare for the financial aspect of moving. You can use a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or an old-fashioned pen and paper. Remember that not every expense will happen at once, no matter which tool you use. Dividing the costs into categories or periods of time can make it easier to save.
Here are a few tips to help you set your moving budget:
- Make a list of everything you’ll need to spend money on throughout the moving process. This might include moving supplies, storage unit costs, professional movers, gas, rental trucks, airline tickets, hotel accommodations, and more.
- Place each expense into one of three categories: “before the move,” “during the move,” and “after the move.”
- Determine an amount for each item and aim slightly higher to accommodate for unprecedented expenditures.
- Add up the total costs for each category.
- Create a plan to save up money for each category in a certain amount of time.
As you budget for the move, don’t forget to account for cost-of-living differences you might encounter in your new state.
Research Moving Companies
It’s possible to DIY your out-of-state move, but utilizing movers will make the process immensely easier. If you decide to hire a moving company, make sure they are reputable and trustworthy. Here are a few reasons why this is critical:
- Reputable moving companies are much more reliable than depending on the help of friends, family, or neighbors.
- A trustworthy company will ensure that you’re free from dodgy scams.
- Professional movers are trained to avoid injuries and protect your possessions.
- A reputable moving company will be direct about its pricing and services.
If you’re unsure about a company’s reputation, the Better Business Bureau can shed helpful insight on their ethics.
Talk to Your Employer About Relocation Assistance
If you’re moving for a job, ask them about relocation assistance. Many companies will offer helpful perks such as reimbursement on moving company costs and travel.
Businesses that hire outside their geographic area will often offer an employee relocation package to entice qualified candidates to move closer. This package might include:
- Relocation reimbursement
- Quality moving company service
- Packing and/or unpacking services
- Transportation
- Flexible start date
- Paid visits out to the new region for house-hunting purposes
- Temporary housing
- Real estate cost assistance
- Bonuses or pay increases
Select a Moving Date
When it’s time to choose a moving date, consider moving company availability, your work schedule, weather conditions, and family concerns.
Believe it or not, the time of year and day of the week can affect the cost of your move. Relocations over the weekend, around holidays, or over the summer can sometimes come with higher expenses. Keep this information in mind as you plan for the big day.
Odds and Ends
Here are a few more housekeeping tasks to tackle before your out-of-state move:
- Forward your mail
- Cancel your current utilities and subscriptions
- Acquire a driver’s license in your new state
- Transfer vehicle registrations and titles
- Register to vote
- Change your address with the postal service, insurance company, bank, IRS, Social Security Administration, healthcare providers, and other institutions.
Ready To Move? Best of the West Movers Is Here for You
A long-distance move is a huge undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be excruciating. As you’re compiling your long-distance moving checklist, don’t forget to add Best of the West Movers to the top of your to-dos!
We’re a moving company specializing in both local and long-distance relocations. We understand the logistical complications surrounding long-distance moves, and we’re dedicated to making your moving experience as stress-free as possible.
We serve Davis and Salt Lake County, Utah, including Ogden, Bountiful, Kaysville, South Jordan, Midvale, Sandy, Draper, and more! Contact us for your free estimate today!
