Changing states is no easy feat. From packing all your belongings and finding a suitable living space to considering moving options and costs, there are innumerable things you must do. Making new friends, getting a new job, or transferring is too much.
It requires a lot of planning and even more patience. But don’t worry yet; it can all be breezy if you take the right steps. Here’s the perfect guide to executing your out-of-state move without hindrance.
Visit the City You’re Moving To
It would be helpful for you to move to a place you’re familiar with. But even if you’re unfamiliar with it, you should visit it as often as you can (at least once) before moving to get a gist of what you will encounter.
So familiarize yourself with the location, famous places, and tourist attractions. If you’re staying in a motel, try asking the staff about famous local hotspots around town and secret hangouts that only locals know about.
Rent a Storage Unit
Moving out sooner than expected or not having your new abode ready on time are two of the most common unfortunate events that can happen to you while shifting. This can be tougher if you’re moving upward into a state closer to Canada, such as Montana. The cold weather can take you by surprise.
Therefore, renting a storage unit can be more beneficial than you imagine. Suppose you’re shifting to Billings in Montana from Idaho, Wyoming, or Dakota. Google ‘‘storage units Billings MT ‘to rent space to stash your belongings in a climate-controlled environment. Your stuff will stay safe till you have the rest figured out.
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Budgeting the Move
A state-to-state move is expensive; you must plan your budget accordingly. For a distance of approximately 1000 miles, hiring professional movers would cost thousands of dollars on average.
Even if you’re planning to move by yourself, there are various expenses to keep in mind (truck or container rental costs, moving supplies, amongst other expenses). Start by making a list of all possible moving expenses, keeping extra for unforeseen events, and figuring out how much total you can spend on the move.
Budgeting for Living Changes
Don’t forget about the changes in the cost of living. You need to create a budget listing everything from changes in rent or mortgage amount, utility bills, groceries, insurance expenses, transportation costs, and new furniture or renovation expenses.
If you plan to buy a house, you must investigate changes in property tax, home insurance, repairs and maintenance, and all related household expenses. You can easily calculate this amount using cost-of-living calculator tools such as Numbeo. You can find out about housing, crime, famous restaurants, healthcare, and more.
Investigate Your New Neighborhood Online
Once you have decided on the state/city/neighborhood you are moving to, try to get as much information online as possible. Use Google Maps to see how to navigate the city and determine the livability score on AreaVibes. Not just that, but NextDoor allows you to get to know your neighbors and neighborhood like a local!
Check for Relocation Assistance
If you are relocating for a job or position, always check if your company is willing to cover your moving expenses. Often, companies offer relocation packages to employees. You need to go and ask your employer for the packages and then negotiate accordingly.
Find a Place to Live
In your best interest, you will want to find a place to stay before you move. We suggest you rent a room for the first few months to get familiar with the city unless you are already aware.
It will help in browsing and finding a reliable real estate agent to help you find a suitable place to stay in the long term. You can find a list of realtors by using Realtor.com’s website.
Commuting
The everyday commute affects all aspects of your way of life. You need to ask if the commute is short or long to your office and back home. Are there places or ways to get breakfast on the way? How much does it cost you daily? What about traffic? You need to consider all the aspects of the commute that affect you and plan your place of living and commute accordingly.
Find the Nearest Grocery And Shopping Centers
You will need to make a quick trip to the grocery store as soon as you arrive and settle in. Research the nearest grocery stores and shopping centers to make it easy for you when you arrive. Know beforehand the parking situation and where you can get the best deals.
Find Reputable Moving Companies
Moving to another state will require you to hire professional movers (not necessarily, but preferably). While looking for a moving company, read reviews and hire a reliable one. You can find a directory of moving companies online.
It will provide ratings, reviews, and all the information about complaints, mishaps, connections with storage units, and much more. Get in touch with at least three different moving companies to finalize the best deal.
Another tip to remember is that the moving company always quotes a price after looking at all the movables. If any company quotes a price online that sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam!
Plan your Packing
You will need to start packing weeks in advance; start by packing the non-essential items (books, kitchenware, electronics, etc.). One by one, move them into boxes to not clutter anything.
Labeling the boxes is mandatory to help you and the moving company know what to handle with care and to remember what goes where. Make a list of all items that need repairing before packing and fix them a week before moving. Remember to sort out all the unnecessary items to donate, sell, or throw away before packing to avoid extra weight.
Travel Arrangements
Arrange your travel plans way before moving so that all the timings of arrival align. This includes booking your plane ticket, booking a rental car, booking a hotel room, or arranging another place to stay. It may take the moving company some time to deliver your stuff, so plan your place of stay accordingly.
Conclusion
Moving from one state to another is difficult, but it isn’t impossible either. If planned properly, there is minimal chance for error, and following through with the tips provided can help you reduce the risks of your move and make it a seamless transition.
