You’re probably well aware that there are many things to consider when moving to another state. However, having good moving interstate tips can come in handy in this situation – and we got plenty of them. Our advice can help you take the stress out of relocation and have your belongings safely delivered to your new home without any problems. Read on to find them out.
Let our guide to relocating to another state help you plan your move successfully
How to Plan a Move to Another State? Get Organized At the Beginning of the Process
One of the best ways to deal with relocation stress is to get organized and begin planning early on in the process. But how to plan a move to another state? Start by making a to-do list of all the big tasks, such as packing up your belongings and arranging for movers. Then, break these down into smaller tasks that can be completed over time.
At the same time, ensure to assign a deadline to each task in question. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you don’t forget anything important. Once the list is finished, you can start crossing items off as you complete them. Additionally, don’t hesitate to add new ones as they pop into your mind when you start with the process.
Make Setting a Budget One of Your Top Priorities – It’ the Best Guide to Relocating to Another State
Creating a relocation budget is not exciting or fun, but it is important. There are a lot of factors to consider when setting a budget for your move. The size of your new home, the distance, whether you’re hiring cross-country movers or renting a truck, and the cost of living in your new city are all important factors to take into account. And don’t forget about the hidden costs of relocation, such as buying new furniture.
So, how to prepare to move to another state? Making a budget will provide you with a clear understanding of all the expenses involved and help you make decisions about what expenses are necessary and which ones can be cut back on – depending on the money you have at your disposal. Overall, a relocation budget serves as a useful, if not necessary, tool when you need to start organizing a move.
How to Prepare to Move to Another State? Don’t Procrastinate With Packing
If you’re planning a move to another city, you have two choices. You can get professional packing services and let professional packers handle all of your belongings, or you can decide to pack on your own. If you choose a second option, keep in mind that you need to start boxing up on time – at least a couple of weeks before the move.
Procrastinating can lead to a number of problems during the move. If you wait until the last minute to pack, you may not have enough time to properly sort and organize your belongings. This can result in misplaced items or even damaged possessions. Additionally, procrastinating can also lead to rushing and making careless relocation mistakes, such as forgetting to label boxes or leaving important items behind. Therefore, it’s best to start packing early and secure yourself a smooth and stress-free move.
How much time you need to pack will depend on a few factors, including the size of your home, your home inventory, and the type of your belongings. A good rule of thumb is to allow yourself one week for every bedroom in your home.
The sooner you start packing, the lower are chances of making mistakes
Get Necessary Packing Supplies
Before the boxing-up process even begins, you need to gather the necessary packing materials. This includes obtaining boxes of various sizes, bubble wrap and packing paper for packaging fragile items, tape, markers for labeling boxes, and any other materials needed. It’s also important to have enough supplies on hand, so you don’t run out of them mid-packing and have to make multiple trips to the store.
Taking the time to gather necessary packing supplies can save you from a lot of frustration and headaches during the packing process. Of course, note that if you plan on getting cross-country moving services, you can always let long-distance movers be responsible for packing and gathering supplies.
Avoid Overstuffing Boxes
When moving cross-country, know that overfilling boxes can lead to them breaking or becoming too heavy to lift, causing injury or damage to you or your possessions. It’s important to use smaller boxes for heavier items – and vice versa. Additionally, note that overfilling boxes can make them difficult to stack and organize in the moving truck, as well, leading to a disorganized and chaotic unpacking process at your new home.
Large boxes should be reserved solely for light stuff, such as pillows and bedding
Hire Cross Country Moving Company to Help You Move
If you’re planning a move, big or small, there are many compelling reasons to consider hiring professional movers. Hiring movers will save you time and energy while ensuring that your belongings arrive safely at your new home. That’s why we at Cross Country Moving Company know exactly what each client needs when it comes to relocating successfully.
Here are some additional reasons why it’s always best to opt for getting a cross-country moving service than move on your own.
- Professional movers have experience and expertise in safely packing and transporting different types of belongings and vehicles.
- Getting help from relocation experts reduces the risk of injuries you’re exposed to if you don’t know proper lifting techniques.
- While movers deal with logistics and other hard work, you’ll be able to focus on other aspects of the move.
However, when hiring professionals, it’s important to do research and consider factors such as cost, reputation, moving insurance, and services offered. Our policy states that there are no hidden fees or secret costs, and we don’t hide our reviews. Cross Country Moving Company is a legitimate and professional cross-country moving service.
Before choosing a relocation company, it’s also a good idea to get quotes from multiple cross-country moving companies and read reviews before making your decision. It’s the best way to avoid relocation scams and secure a move without a fuss.
If You Opt for a Long-Distance Moving Company, Use a Variety of Services
Reliable relocation companies offer a lot more than basic long-distance moving services. Therefore, if your finances allow it, make sure you get as many additional services as possible – it will help you move efficiently and swiftly. Here are some options worth considering:
Car Shipping
The benefits of professional auto shipping are many. It allows you to save time and avoid the hassle of driving long-distance or arranging for transportation. At the same time, professional car shipping companies have the proper equipment and experience to safely transport your vehicle, so you don’t have to worry about the car’s condition or whether it will withstand the long road.
Packing Services
Professional packers are trained in the most efficient and safe methods of packing and can properly handle and protect all of your belongings – they can even help you move a piano and other bully and tricky stuff. They also have access to high-quality packing materials that ensure your items will stay secure during the move. Additionally, using a packing service can potentially lower the risk of damage to your belongings, resulting in potential cost savings.
Storage Services
Companies that offer storage services can provide you with a safe and secure location for your items while in transit. Storage units can be a great solution for those who need more time to find a new home after the move or those who wish to save some of their belongings but don’t make clutter in their new homes.
One of the Things to Consider When Moving to Another State Is Notifying Important Parties About It
One of the most important things to do when relocating to a new home is to notify important people and organizations about the change of address. Failure to do so can result in missed bills, missed communications from important contacts, and even identity theft. But who to notify when relocating? Consider the following:
- Your employer or HR department,
- Your landlord,
- Your child’s school or daycare,
- Banks and financial institutions,
- IRS,
- Insurance providers,
- Utility companies,
- Any ongoing subscriptions or memberships,
- The post office.
At the same time, don’t neglect to inform your wider range of friends about the move – you can even have a goodbye party and invite all the people you care about. For some interesting party decoration ideas, take a look at the video below:
Prepare the House for Long-Distance Movers the Best You Can
What do you need to do in advance to prepare for long-distance movers properly? First of all, create a clear path from the street to your door. Make sure there are no obstacles in the way that the movers will have to climb over or go around. This includes things like toys, bikes, and gardening equipment. At the same time, remove any items that could potentially break during the move, such as vases, picture frames, and lamps.
If you have any irreplaceable items, pack them up separately so you can keep an eye on them during the move. You should also make sure all appliances are unplugged and ready to go and do a final sweep of the house to make sure you haven’t left anything behind. This is especially important if you’re relocating out of state since you won’t be able to come back for anything you forget.
In the end, try to welcome your cross-country movers with refreshments! Have water and snacks available for them so they can stay hydrated and fueled throughout the day. If they excel in their job during the move, you can always choose to tip your long-distance movers for their effort and good work.
Leave Your Home Sparkling Clean
Chances are, it’s been a while since you’ve given your home a good, deep cleaning. Relocation is the perfect opportunity to start fresh and get rid of all the dirt, dust, and grime that’s been building up over the years. Begin by decluttering each room, then move on to scrubbing floors, sinks, and toilets. Don’t forget to wipe down surfaces and vacuum carpets as well!
When move-out cleaning time comes, pay special attention to the kitchen and bathroom. These rooms tend to get dirty more quickly than others, so they require a little extra elbow grease when cleaning. Make sure to scrub appliances, counters, backsplashes, tubs/showers, and toilets until they shine!
At the same time, try to take care of any repairs and any small repair jobs around the house that you’ve been meaning to get to but never have. This could include patching holes in walls, fixing cabinet doors, or unclogging drains.
Still, if deep cleaning isn’t your thing or you simply don’t have the time, hire professionals to do it for you! This is a great way to ensure that every nook and cranny is clean – leaving your mind at ease come relocation day.
Cleaning your home is not only considerate but also financially important
Let These Tips on Moving to Another State Help You Achieve a Hassle-Free Move
Overall, an interstate move can be a stressful experience for many. However, by following these tips on moving to another state and doing proper planning and preparation, you can make the process easier.
From packing smartly to hiring a reliable long-distance moving company like Cross Country Moving Company, use all of our suggestions to ensure that your move goes as smoothly as possible. With their help, you’ll be ready to settle into your new home worry-free and in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Interstate Tips
What Are Some Tips for Organizing and Packing for an Interstate Move?
Some quick long-distance moving tips include:
- Start early and create a plan,
- Declutter and get rid of items you no longer need or use,
- Label all boxes and create an inventory list,
- Pack fragile items carefully with bubble wrap or padding,
- Use sturdy boxes and don’t overload them,
- Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding to save space,
- Pack a separate box or bag with the essentials you’ll need immediately upon arrival,
- Hire professional movers if you need help or have large or heavy items.
How Do I Choose a Reputable Moving Company for My Interstate Move?
Check the company’s credentials, including its licensing and insurance. Look for reviews and ratings from previous customers on reputable websites, and ask for referrals from friends or family who have had a good experience with a moving company.
Get several quotes from different cross-country moving companies and compare their prices and services. Make sure the company provides a written estimate and contract with all the details of the move. Avoid companies that ask for a large deposit upfront or refuse to provide references.
How Do I Estimate the Cost of an Interstate Move?
Consider factors such as the distance of the move, the weight of your belongings, any additional services you may need, and the time of year you’re moving. Get quotes from several reputable moving companies and compare their prices and services. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges that may apply, such as packing materials or long-carry fees.
What Are Some Ways to Reduce the Cost of an Interstate Move?
Try doing some of the packing and moving yourself, and decluttering and getting rid of items you no longer need or use. It’s important to schedule your move during the off-season when cross-country moving companies may offer discounts. Additionally, negotiate the best price, and ask about available discounts or promotions.
How Do I Protect My Belongings During an Interstate Move?
To protect your belongings during an interstate move, pack fragile items carefully with bubble wrap or padding, use sturdy boxes and don’t overload them, label all boxes and create an inventory list, and use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding to save space.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Moving Company for My Interstate Move?
Booking a long-distance moving company for your interstate move is recommended at least 8 to 12 weeks in advance to ensure availability and avoid last-minute fees.
However, it’s best to start researching cross-country moving companies and getting quotes as soon as you know your moving date. If you’re moving during the peak season (summer months), you may want to book even earlier to secure your desired moving date.
How Do I Inform My Employer, School, and Other Important Parties of My Interstate Move?
First, start by creating a list of all the organizations and individuals that need to be notified. Notify your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing, and provide them with your new address and contact information.
If you have children, inform their school of the move and arrange for their records to be transferred to the new one.
Additionally, inform your healthcare providers, banks, credit card companies, and any other important parties of your move and provide them with your new contact information.
Finally, forward your mail to your new address and notify the post office of your move at least a week before your move date.
What Are Some Things I Should Do to Prepare My New Home Before Moving In?
To prepare your new home before moving in, you should clean it thoroughly, have any necessary repairs or maintenance completed, and ensure that all utilities are set up and ready to go. You may also want to consider painting the walls and changing the locks for added security.
How Do I Transfer My Utilities and Other Services to My New Home?
To transfer utilities and other services to your new home, contact each provider to schedule the disconnection of services at your old address and the connection of services at your new address. Utilities and services that need to be transferred include electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and phone.
What Should I Do With Items That I No Longer Need or Want Before My Interstate Move?
Before your interstate move, it’s a good idea to declutter and get rid of items that you no longer need or want. Donate them to charity, sell them online or through a yard sale, or simply throw them away. Start decluttering as early as possible and focus on one room or area at a time.
What Are Some Tips for Driving a Long Distance During an Interstate Move?
Here are some tips for driving a long distance during an interstate move:
- Plan your route in advance and have a backup plan in case of unexpected road closures or traffic,
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and have it serviced before the trip,
- Pack a roadside emergency kit, including a spare tire, jack, and jumper cables,
- Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch your legs and rest your eyes,
- Stay hydrated and bring healthy snacks to avoid fatigue and hunger,
- Avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone while driving,
- Obey traffic laws and adjust your driving to weather and road conditions,
- Consider using a GPS or navigation app to help you stay on track and avoid getting lost.
How Do I Plan For Unexpected Delays During an Interstate Move?
To plan for unexpected delays during an interstate move, you should build extra time into your schedule, have a backup plan, stay in contact with your moving company, pack a bag with essentials, and consider purchasing moving insurance.
What Are Some Ways to Minimize Stress During an Interstate Move?
To minimize stress during an interstate move, start planning early, stay organized, take breaks, get help if needed, stay positive, and prioritize your mental and physical health.
How Do I Handle the Logistics of Moving With Pets or Children During an Interstate Move?
To handle the logistics of moving with pets or children, you should plan ahead, make necessary arrangements, and keep them comfortable and entertained during the move.
This may include finding pet-friendly accommodations, arranging for pet care or a babysitter during the move, and packing essentials such as food, water, and toys. Additionally, update their identification tags and microchip information with your new address and contact.
What Should I Do After My Interstate Move to Get Settled Into My New Home and Community?
To settle into your new home and community after a move, unpack and organize your belongings, update your address, register your children in school, explore the area, meet your neighbors, and take care of necessary home repairs or improvements. Give yourself time to adjust and enjoy your new surroundings.
