Moving to a new state may not be like moving to outer space but the amount of preparations required, the difficulties you will encounter and the organizational strategy you will have to devise seem to correspond to the process of planning a space flight. Besides, the drastic change you will experience once you try to settle in your new surroundings could make you feel like an alien, especially if you have failed to do any of the important tasks that need to be completed and crucial things that have to be arranged before moving out of state. The following guide will provide you a reliable walkthrough so that you don’t miss a single step in your moving to another state “out-of-space” journey.
Research the economic situation and standard of living in your new state
One of the first things to do before moving to another state is to make sure you will have the financial means to settle successfully. This depends on many factors but the most significant aspects to take into consideration are:
- Job market and career opportunities – In case you are moving to another state with no job, the future will only look rosy to you if the professional sphere you have specialized in is thriving in the region. Make sure the unemployment rate is low and vacant positions are available in your line of work. Knowing that your professional skills are in demand in your new state will ensure your peace of mind, even if you have secured yourself a job before the move. Having the chance to advance and develop in your work, or even better – to start your own business with great perspectives, is one of the most important factors for a successful relocation.
- Real estate market – The housing prices come next in your priority list when choosing an affordable and favorable place to live. You will need a new home, save and comfortable, suitable for your lifestyle, the size of your family, your future plans and … your pocket. Don’t forget to provide for furnishing, renovation projects or necessary repair works. Whether you are looking for a rented property or intend to buy your own house, research the housing costs and conditions well in advance.
- Groceries market – Not literally, but the overall cost of living in your new state (and city) is what matters the most. Food, utility bills, transportation, medical care and so on – a variety of material goods and necessities “contribute” to your living standard.
Choose a good neighborhood
Decide firmly what you are looking for and locate the place that meets most of your requirements (proximity to work and amenities, safety and convenience, green areas and entertainment options, etc.). If possible explore the place personally – see what the community life is like, talk to the locals and find a home that suits your needs. See if any repairs or renovations will be necessary and create a floor plan to know what items you will be able to move with you from your old place.
Once you have completed your research, it’s time for the actual preparations. Here are the things to do when you move out of state.
Create a moving timeline
This will help you define the tasks ahead of you, set clear goals and keep track of your progress. A wonderful example can be found on these movers’ website.
Set your moving budget
See what savings you have to rely on and if the money will be enough to cover your moving expenses. Don’t forget to provide for the moving company’s rate, the variety of extra charges and fees for additional services, the insurance you will need, the ticket for your flight and the shipment of your vehicle (or money for gas and road tolls, lodgings and meals on the way), the shipment of pets, emergency funds, etc. Find ways to pocket some more cash – organize a moving sale, sell unnecessary things online, book your move during the off-peak season, get packing materials for free and so on.
Hire reliable movers
Find a trustworthy moving company that will perform a smooth move to avoid troubles and reduce the stress. Visit movers’ website, check their license and insurance rates, read reviews, get several estimates and choose an offer that provides the best balance between reasonable price and quality services. Schedule your move early, ask for discounts and be aware for moving scam.
Get the paperwork ready
- Change your address – have all your mail forwarded;
- Transfer utilities – don’t forget to pay all your bills and to arrange the date when the utilities should be disconnected in your old property and let running in your new one;
- Notify your landlord if you are moving out of a rented property and arrange to receive your deposit back.
- Contact and inform various relevant institutions (especially banks) and service providers (Internet, cable, etc.) and make the necessary arrangements;
- Cancel memberships and subscriptions;
- Retrieve medical and school records – have medications transferred if necessary and ask for recommendations concerning health care providers and educational facilities;
- Transfer your driver’s license, car registration and insurances;
Sort your belongings
Declutter your home and decide the fate of each of your possessions – get rid of damaged and worn out items, donate or sell ones that are in good condition but you will no longer need, prepare the useful pieces you are going to take and pay special attention to anything that has high sentimental value.
Pack your household items
- Provide packing materials of various sorts and sizes (appropriate boxes, packing paper and packing tape, bubble wrap and permanent markers);
- Start packing early (pack the rooms and the items you use the least first);
- Take lots of pictures – for memories and for evidence about the condition of your belongings;
- Be very careful with special things – fragile items (especially expensive electronics, delicate artwork and heirlooms), heavy items (disassemble furniture partially and wrap bulky appliances for protection) and sentimental items (keep them safe!);
- Label the boxes – to speed up unloading, unpacking and arranging;
- Pack an “open-first box” with all the essentials you will need for a day or two without your possessions;
- Take care of all non-allowable items – especially pets and plants!
- Move your valuables yourself.
Don’t forget to say goodbye to all your favorite places and your dear friends. Prevent property damage when moving out and leave your old property clean. After your well-organized and successful moving day, have a safe trip to your new home and enjoy your new life!
