13 Tips to Make Moving Out of State Easier and Less Stressful
How to Make Moving Out of State Easier
Moving out of state requires a lot of preparation and care. Don't attempt a long-distance move without first reading these 13 tips to help make it easier.
Moving out of state
Nearly 40 million people move each year, and if you're among them you may be feeling overwhelmed, particularly if you'll be moving out of state. Don't worry, if you're one of the 7.6 million people moving out state this year, there are simple tips that can simplify the process.
Studies have found that most people find moving out of their home as stressful as the idea of facing sickness. However, with the right organization and forward planning, you'll be amazed how easy moving out of state move can be. Read on to learn more about our top 13 moving tips.
Tip #1: Before Moving Out of State, Hire a Mover
This may seem like a no-brainer, however, many people put off scheduling their movers until a week or two before their move. This increases your chances that the movers will not have any availability during the requested time, and if you have to be out by a certain day you may find yourself paying extra to get whatever company is available.
Play it safe and try and schedule your movers at least six weeks in advance. You can click here to get it done quickly and easily.
Tip #2: Fill Out a Change of Address from Your Local Postal Office
This next tip is something you want to get done at least 2-3 weeks ahead of time. The last thing you want is for any important information, checks, or letters to end up in the wrong hands because you forgot to make a trip to the post office.
Tip #3: Notify Utility Services
Again, you'll want to have this done at least 2 weeks before you move, and be sure to have any utilities in your new home scheduled to be turned on as well.
In many states, utility services like the lights or gas can take 2-3 business days to be turned on and you don't want to be stuck in the dark or without heat.
Tip #4: Schedule a Cleaning Company to Come and Clean the New Home
This is particularly true if you are moving into an older home. Dirty carpets hold more bugs than most toilet seats and can even cause a virus similar to food poisoning!
Keep your family healthy and your home clean by scheduling to have the carpets in your new home cleaned ahead of time. This is also an ideal time to schedule anything involving pesticide spray or chemicals you may need to be out of the house for.
Tip #5: Call a Locksmith to Schedule Having Your New Home Locks Changed
Between the selling process and the previous residents, there's no telling who once held keys to your home. We recommend playing it safe and scheduling to have your locks changed on the day you're set to arrive.
Tip #6: Have Records Transferred to New Schools
Depending on school policy, this process may take longer than anticipated so try and get it done ahead of time.
It's also important to remember that your child may need to redo certain tests or have specific immunization records depending on state laws, so you'll want to prepare for these requirements as much as possible
Tip #7: Research Cable, Internet, and Phone Providers Ahead of Time
If moving out of state means moving from one side of the county to another, it's likely the cable, internet, and phone providers may not provide the same coverage you're used to (or even exist).
Do your research ahead of time for options in your new state so there are no worries about being off the grid.
Tip #8: Find Out DMV Requirements for Your New State
When moving out of state, it's important to know the licensing laws in your new area. Some states allow you to switch your driver's license over pretty easily, while others may require you to redo the written exam or pay a new registration fee.
Tip #9: Fill and Transfer Prescriptions Ahead of Time
We're all human and things like renewing a prescription are often put off until the last minute, but you'll want to make sure you can easily pick up your medication in your new state.
If you typically get your prescription processed through a nationwide chain like Walmart or CSV, the process should be fairly simple.
Tip #10: Preorder New Checks or Open a New Account
You'll want to research how easily you'll be able to find banks or atm's in your new state if you choose to stay with your current bank. If you do choose to stay with them, be sure to give them a heads up that you'll need to reorder checks with your new address listed.
Tip #11: Defrost Your Refridgerator
Few people know that your refrigerator actually takes a few days to fully defrost. So, if you plan on taking it with you be sure to unplug your refrigerator 3 days in advance to avoid a mess.
Tip #12: Take One Last Family Photo
This may seem more on the sentimental side, but be sure to take one last family picture before moving out of state! You'll be glad you did.
If you plan on driving for your out of state move, this is also the perfect time to get the car tuned up and pack any entertainment the family may need along the way.
Tip #13: Review Your Checklist One More Time
Better safe than sorry. It can really save you to take on a final glance at your checklist before moving. If you are having trouble finding a full checklist of what needs to get done before the move just click here for resources.
Start With the First Step Today
We understand how overwhelming the moving process can be, which is why the last thing you want is to have to worry about your belongings making it safely to your new home.
Whether you're moving out of state or just down the street, we'll treat your belongings with the utmost care during every step of packing and transport.
Our impressive reviews come from happy customers that relied on us to make their move easier, not more stressful. Contact us today to book your move with the moving team you can rely on.