Statistics say that on average, the typical American moves at least ten times in their lifetime.
That’s quite a lot of stress one has to go through. Whether you’re relocating for career purposes, health reasons, retiring to the countryside, or switching cities because of rising costs, moving is always going to be a challenge. Many first-time movers easily get overwhelmed by the logistics, especially when moving to a different state.
Don’t worry, though. As long as you know what to do and come in prepared, no obstacle can stop you.
That said, here are six useful tips on how to prepare your out-of-state move.
1. Generate a Master Plan
Moving seems intimidating, but once you’ve got the basics covered, even the most daunting task would become easy and doable.
The best thing you can do to simplify your move is to create a plan. It will serve as a guide on how to proceed and a reminder whenever you lose track of what to do next.
- Determine your needs. Can you move on your own, or should you hire movers for help? Do you need to relocate immediately? How big of a budget do you have? Answering these questions will give you a rough idea of what specific services you need or can afford.
- Create a timeline and schedule. Doing so will help you keep track of what tasks to accomplish until the day of the move.
- Purchase supplies in advance. If you decide to move independently, get your hands on the materials as soon as you can. You don’t want to rush to the store on moving day.
- Book healthcare appointments. Have your annual wellness checks, so there’s one thing less to worry about at your new place.
Once you’ve got the basics covered, even the most daunting task is doable.
2. Do Your Research
This step is crucial to anyone making an out-of-state move. Knowledge is everything in today’s era. Luckily, information is readily accessible with just a few swipes and finger taps on your phone.
Try scouting for the best neighborhoods in your new hometown. It’s also a good idea to run a background check on your potential moving company to avoid scams. Although researching might seem like a hassle, it goes a long way to ensure a seamless moving experience.
Although researching might seem like a hassle, it goes a long way to ensure a seamless moving experience.
3. Ship Your Car
Driving your car across the country might seem like an ideal way to save money. But it’s not always the case. Why? Simply because long-distance travel wears down a vehicle. As a result, you’ll probably have to make some repairs by the time you arrive at your destination.
This is when transporting your car can come in handy. Not only is your vehicle preserved, but it also saves you from the exhaustion of driving. Just make sure that you hire a reliable car shipping company.
4. Set up Utilities in Advance
Nothing’s worse than setting foot in your new house only to find out there’s no electricity or running water. To make life easier, transfer or set up utilities and home services prior to your move. Some other essential things to prepare are required documents for renewing car registration and updating your mailing address.
5. Packing 101
When it comes to moving, this might be everyone’s most dreaded step. Unless you’ve hired full-service movers, packing can be an overly burdensome task. And if you don’t do an excellent job with it, you’ll end up with broken stuff and malfunctioning appliances.
Here are some effective packing tips you can apply:
- Declutter as much as possible. There’s no point in holding on to items you barely even use. Try to sell them at a yard sale and use the money to buy packing materials.
- Prepare an essentials box. This box should contain necessities, such as a fresh set of clothes, a toothbrush, and medications to help you survive day one in your new place.
- Use disposable foam plates for dishes. It’s more cost and time-effective than wrapping each plate in packing paper. Just insert a foam plate between each dish.
- Fill up your suitcases. Suitcases make great containers since you can quickly move them thanks to their wheels.
- Be resourceful. Instead of spending extra on packing paper, you can save up using old linen to pad boxes and wrap breakables.
Unless you’ve hired full-service movers, packing can be an overly burdensome task.
6. Make Last Minute Preparations Before Moving Day
Like taking an exam, cramming on the day of the move often leads to unfavorable results. So make sure to settle everything the day before. Arrange the boxes for the movers and inform friends and relatives that you’re leaving the following day. You’re less likely to get stressed when things proceed according to plan.
Finally, enjoy every moment of this! Nothing’s more counterproductive than doing things against your own will. Don’t overthink, and it’ll be over before you know it.
Wishing you a flawless move!