Moving Out of State: Checklist for an Out-of-State Move

Whether you’re relocating to another floor in your building, across the street, or town, moving can be complicated. But, relocating out-of-state presents even more challenges. 

An interstate move simply requires more planning, more lead time, and (usually) more money. According to Home Advisor, the costs of moving to a new state range from $2,600 and $6,500. 

Fortunately, planning ahead and working with a great long-distance moving company can help ease the transition. This out-of-state moving checklist will help, too. Read on for tips on moving to a different state seamlessly.

8 Weeks Before the Move

At this early stage of your move, you’re in planning mode. However, this period may just be the most critical part of the process. So check these tasks off your list as far in advance as possible to reduce stress as moving day grows near.

• Make a “Moving File” (digital) and “Moving Binder” (physical) to contain essential documents, communications, receipts, and invoices in one place. 
• Create a moving budget to help keep costs under control. Consider expenses such as packing supplies, moving truck rental, moving company services, cleaning supplies, food, hotels, gas, and more.
• Make appointments; you may need to see doctors, dentists, optometrists, and more before you leave, even if it’s just to get copies of records.
• Gather packing supplies, such as cardboard boxes, packing paper, bubble and foam wrap, packing tape, and moving blankets.
• Research moving companies. You’ll want to compare estimates from multiple movers and select a company that has experience with interstate moves.

6 Weeks Before the Move

Now it’s time to nail down a moving date so you can reserve movers and any vehicles you may need. At this time, you’ll also want to:

• Declutter your home. There’s no need to pay to move items unless you want them. Instead, organize belongings into categories of “keep,” “donate,” and “sell”; give donatable things to your favorite charity, and sell the rest at a garage sale or online. 
• Schedule a car shipment if you won’t be driving during the move.
• Purchase airline tickets if you will be flying to your new home.

4 Weeks Before the Move

You’re getting closer to the big day. Luckily, you’ve already crossed off several tasks on the to-do list! When the move is about a month away, you can:

• Contact your utility companies and let them know your moving date. 
• Contact utilities for your new home and determine turn-on dates. 
• Gather important documents, such as birth certificates, vehicle titles, passports, and deeds, info in a folder that’ll stay with you during the move. 
• Start eating food from the freezer and pantry to avoid waste. 
• Schedule a house cleaning service. 
• Start packing.

Two Weeks Before the Move

By now, you should be well along in the packing process. There are just a few more things to do:

• Set up mail forwarding with USPS.
• Update your address with any providers you’ll continue to use, like banks or cell phone companies.
• If you rent, transfer your renter’s insurance to your new address. 
• Confirm details with your movers. 

Movers at the Ready

Now all you have to do is finish packing! Following this checklist will help you be ready to go when moving day arrives.

For information and a free quote, contact us today. We can help make your long-distance move a success.