Are you looking to move out of state? Have you explored the new city, from things to do to good schools?
In 2016 alone, 11.2% of people in the U.S. moved. Moving, even locally, can be difficult, so what about out of state?
Whether you’re looking to move locally or out of state, we here at Carmack Moving will cover that in this article.
In this article, explore the ultimate guide on moving out of state for convenience and ease. You’ll also learn what to find out about the city, and what to pack.
Read on to learn all of these tips and tricks so you’ll feel confident and comfortable with your move!
Check Out Your New City
Before planting your roots in a new city, make sure that you vacation there as often as possible to see how you like it. Make sure to check out the different neighborhoods and the location.
Head to the visitor’s center to see different fun things to do in the area, maps, and brochures. You can also check online for different reviews of the area.
Crime Rates In The Area
While you might be tempted to buy a home for less, it’s vital that you check out the crime rates in the area you’re considering. Maybe another neighborhood will cost a bit more, but it could be safer.
Research Schools
Whether you plan to have a family someday, or currently do, it’s important you check out the local schools in the area. You’ll want to check out which neighborhoods are best for which schools.
You don’t want to move to an area, just to move again, because the school isn’t the best.
Plan In Advance
Before even moving, you’ll want to receive quotes from different movers well in advance. To ease the process, find out if they offer packing services as well.
You’ll also want to grab free boxes from stores and friends well before the move. While they’re not in use, you can store them in a spare room or closet.
Before You Pack
Before packing, it’s a good idea to condense your items. To do this as efficiently as possible, it’s a good idea to start in one room. Once that room is organized, then you can go to the next room, and so on.
As you’re going through items, decide what you really need, and don’t. The items you don’t want, decide whether they’re trash, or if you’ll donate them.
For some extra cash, you can consider selling the items you don’t want in either a garage sale or online.
Remember, the more items you have, the more expensive the move will be.
Have An Inventory List
Before you even begin packing, it’s important you have an inventory list. Make sure you document everything you have that’ll be going to the new location.
Any identifiers, such as a serial number, you’ll want to take a picture of. This is important if you need to file an insurance claim in the future if there’s ever theft or loss.
Having an inventory list of everything you’re taking is a good way to get an accurate estimate from your movers about your move.
Line Up Your Move
Before your move, it’s a good idea to have your home or apartment picked out. Whether or not you have a car, it’s a good idea to check out the transportation in the area.
If you’re not sure where to begin with searching for a home, contact a real estate agent in the area.
Also, if you have kids, find out if the schools have buses. Certain urban areas will have children within a certain radius walk to school.
Calculating The Cost To Move
When you’re determining the cost of moving to another state, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, it’ll depend on any extra services. Will you be packing yourself, or having the movers pack and unpack your items?
Moving to another area might require storage services as well. This is especially true if you’re staying in a temporary location when you arrive.
There’s also the distance from point A to point B. If you’re moving from Washington D.C. to San Francisco that might cost more than Washington D.C. to New York City.
You’ll also need to think of the weight and number of items. After you’ve condensed your items, you can take a look at how many items you really have.
Prepare Your Moving Budget
As you’re calculating the cost, it’s important to come up with a moving budget. It’s vital to be realistic, but also not go beyond your budget.
Besides the moving itself, there might be charges for the un-assembly and assembly of furniture, plus extra fees and charges.
For example, are you driving or flying to your new location? If you’re driving, you’ll need to factor in fuel costs for your vehicle. If you’re flying, you’ll need to factor in the price of the flights, any charges for carrying extra on the plane, etc.
How To Find A Reliable Moving Company
To take the headache out of the move, it’s important to find a quality mover who you can trust. Ask them for their qualifications, and why they can get the job done(well).
Make sure that they’re properly certified, and ask them for proof of their certifications. You can also ask them for a rough estimate of the cost of the move for their services.
A good moving company won’t leave you in the dark and will be open and honest with you about all costs and fees. You’ll also want to be sure that the moving company of your choosing does long-distance moving as well.
Properly Packing
If you decide to forego the packing to the movers or limit what they’ll pack, it’s vital you pack smart. Make sure any fragile items are packed and protected using packing paper, newspaper, or other appropriate materials.
Make sure you have all identification (ID, etc) with you. Make sure you have all records for yourself and your family from doctors, etc.
Save All Receipts
During the move, you’ll wind up having many receipts. It’s vital to keep those for tax purposes. If you wind up donating a bunch of items, you might be able to write it off as a donation on your taxes.
Forward Your Mail
Before the move, make sure you forward all mail to your new address. You don’t want to miss anything. This will prevent you from missing any important documents or letters that could come in the mail.
Disconnect Utilities
You’ll want to contact all of your services in advance and let them know about the end of service date. Find out if they can do a transfer of your services to a new state. Each state, even city, can vary when it comes to electricity, cable, internet, etc.
If the utilities will be with a different company, make sure to contact them in advance to have everything necessary set-up. You’ll need to coordinate a time that you’ll be there to let them in.
Moving Out Day Checklist
Now that the previous list is done, it’s finally moving day! To have an easy and quick move, make sure you keep the front door open with a box or other item. Ensure there’s a clear path for the movers to get in and out quickly.
Once everything is packed up, walk through your home, attic, basement, garage, and yard with the movers. Make sure nothing is missed.
It’s a mixture of emotions moving, so make sure to give yourself enough time to say goodbye to your old home.
After Moving In
After your move in, you’ll need to obtain a license, and establish voting. Every state is different, so research the area in advance.
To establish residency in your new state you’ll need to:
- Pay taxes in your new state
- Have a bank account in the new location
- You’ll need a street address and not a P.O. box
- Proof you don’t live in the other state
Each state varies, and you’ll need to obtain residency by a certain time period depending on the state. You’ll also need to update your vehicle registration, so your plates and registration reflect your new state.
To obtain a new license, you’ll need to bring your social security card, current license, and your proof of residency. Each state will vary when it comes to different requirements.
Your Ultimate Guide On Moving Out Of State
Now that you’ve explored a complete guide on moving out of state, you should be better prepared for your move.
Are you ready to hire a local company serving Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. who offers nationwide relocation?
Contact us today for a custom quote. We’ll go over your needs and answer any questions you have. You’re in good hands with Carmack Moving & Storage!
If you need to store your items in the area, we offer storage solutions as well!
