How to Move to Another State – The Best Cross-Country Tips

December 25, 2018 / Posted in How-to
Michael Vaughan

Moving through the Bay Area, Michael works as a freelance writer in the moving and transportation industry.

There is a lot of preparation, legal, and mandatory steps involved when organizing a relocation. Knowing how to move to another state will help you make the most out of your experience. Although it seems like we can never be prepared enough for our relocation, don’t worry! Here’s a useful cross-country moving guide that will make everything easier and make you organized.

Cat with boxes lying around the house
Typically, the process of relocating to another state requires around five to six weeks to prepare and complete it

Planning an interstate move demands time and effort. Begin by researching your destination and compiling a moving checklist. Declutter, choose a reputable mover skilled in interstate relocations, and pack your items carefully, clearly labeling each box. Update your address and transfer the necessary documents. Plan your journey early and prepare your family and pets. These steps simplify interstate moves, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life.

How to Move to Another State – Visit the New Home First, if Possible

The best way to find out if the state you are planning to move to is the right fit is to visit it and spend a few days there. You can get first-hand insight into living standards, housing expenses, legislation, commute, and quality of life. In case there is a job waiting for you out of the state, your company will probably help you find a good house to live in a city and give you some local tips to prepare for a fresh start.

However, if you don’t have a specific city in mind and you have enough time on your hands, use it as a great excuse to plan a road trip. Depending on the reasons why you’re relocating in the first place, consider some of the following things:

  • Lower apartment rates,
  • Better work opportunities, perhaps a company in your field,
  • Better nightlife,
  • Better schools.
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Research Your New State From Head to Toe

You know how when you like a guy or a girl you can find everything you want in two minutes and a bit of Googling? Well, you are going to do the same thing when moving, because you probably want this to be a successful long-term relationship. Since this is going to be a crucial change in your life, you need to make sure that you’ll be able to adapt to the new circumstances and surroundings.

Also, if you’re relocating without a job, make sure you do some research on the job market and start preparing your CV. Here are some other interstate relocation tips on things you should research before you move:

  • What is the standard of living standard in your future place compared to your current one,
  • How to find a job that will cover your costs of living,
  • Can you stand the climate,
  • Environment and pollution,
  • Legislation,
  • State tax rates,
  • Housing costs and arrangements,
  • Cost of education if you have, or plan to have kids,
  • Social life.
Happy smiling woman working on laptop computer while sitting on the floor with legs crossed and pointing finger away isolated over gray background
Florida and Nevada are some of the states with the lowest taxes

Look for a Place to Settle Before the Move

You can research the housing market online to find an apartment, but if it’s possible, you need to check out the residence yourself. Think good before you decide to live in it. After all, the same goes when you’re booking a long-distance moving company.

You need to ensure your belongings are in safe and reliable hands. Only that way you can rest assured everything will be transported securely to your new home.

Luckily, with Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving you won’t have a worry on your mind because we have many years of experience and satisfied customers.

Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving offers free storage units for 30 days

How to Move to Another State and Find a New Home?

Relocating to a new state and finding a home there can be an exciting yet daunting task. It involves not just the physical move but also the challenge of setting up a new household in unfamiliar territory.  To make it easier, first set your priorities straight and choose your new home, depending on the purpose of your relocation. Here are some scenarios you should be aware of:

  • If you’re relocating for work and managed to find a job before your move,  it is better to search for an area that is near your future workplace or one that has a good commuting route.
  • If you have kids or if you’re moving while pregnant, choose a home that is near your intended school, and located in a friendly, safe neighborhood.
  • If you are on a tight budget, try to find a home that will fit into it but still fulfill the basic requirements for a normal everyday life.

Explore Other Tips for Efficient Move

Here are some other essential steps to efficiently move to another state and secure a new residence, ensuring a smooth transition for you and your family. Ask around when you set your eyes on a specific real estate:

  • Research about the amenities in the vicinity,
  • Get a qualified expert to assess the condition of the whole property,
  • Ask your potential neighbors what the neighborhood is like,
  • If you’re renting, and if there is a possibility to contact previous renters, ask them about the property and the owner.
Woman in a living room house indoors after cross-country moving
Iowa is considered the easiest state where you can buy a home

How to Save Money and Make a Moving Budget

Money is one of the most important things you should consider when relocating. So, you better start making a budget plan as soon as possible. When you choose the location and the place, try to make a basic relocation budget and see if there’s a way you can cut your moving costs. However, some costs are inevitable – if you want top-notch long-distance moving services, you’ll have to pay for them.

From choosing the right car shipping company to packing efficiently and avoiding hidden fees, you should make informed decisions that can significantly reduce your overall costs. That way you’ll make your transition to a new home both smooth and economical.

Moving Belongings on Your Own or Calling Long-Distance Movers to Help?

If you decide to pack for a move on your own, you have to price in a lot of expenses. Include packing materials, renting a truck, vehicle insurance, and manpower to help you with heavy lifting. Don’t forget to make a list of all your personal belongings, otherwise, you will quickly get lost in the process that lasts too long anyway. It is going to take a lot of your time.

All these expenses can add up, so getting organized to move is a crucial step when cross-country moving. Using the service of professional cross-country movers is a good investment that will certainly pay off. You can be sure that by using their services you are making the right decision that will actually save you some bucks.

Tips on How to Earn Extra Money While Relocating?

One of the best ways to earn some cash while preparing for relocation is to sell some of your personal belongings you’re not planning to use. Look for items that are just hanging around the house, those household goods have some value, so now it’s the perfect chance to say goodbye.

This will create some space and cut the cost of moving out of state, but at the same time, you are going to get money for them. So as soon you set apart things you wish to get rid of, you can start planning a garage sale, for example. 

A person holding a stack of money
Set your garage sale on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings

Finding Interstate Movers – Research Thoroughly to Find the Best Moving Company

When you research long-distance moving companies, you have to know roughly what your budget is. Start by making a state-to-state moving checklist and write down their rates. If you are planning to use auto transport service, many companies offer that too. However, it doesn’t mean all of them are trustworthy. Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving has top-notch reviews and ratings – and there’s no better recommendation than a satisfied client, right?

You can hire professional movers who also provide packing services and secure and temperature-controlled storage space. It will save you some money if you use one company for everything. And don’t forget, the cheapest option is not always the best one. Pay attention to the best value-for-your-money deal and get price quotes from a few companies.

Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving mover
Do your research and partner with the best relocation team

Easiest Way to Pack Your Entire Household

The simplest approach to packing your entire household involves strategic planning, organization, and the utilization of the right packing materials. Start by decluttering your home to reduce the volume of items you need to move, donating, or selling things you no longer use. Next, invest in quality packing supplies like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape to protect your belongings.

Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, facilitating an efficient unpacking process. Begin packing non-essential items well in advance, leaving daily necessities for last, and create a detailed inventory list to keep track of everything. By following these steps, you can avoid the chaos often associated with moving and ensure a more organized, stress-free packing experience.

Packing for a State-To-State Move – Take Special Care of Your Fragiles

Packing fragile items requires extra care and attention to ensure they are protected during the move. Begin by selecting the right supplies, such as high-quality bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes that can withstand the weight. Wrap each fragile item individually with bubble wrap, securing it with tape, and use packing paper to fill any gaps in the boxes to prevent items from shifting.

For particularly delicate items, consider double-boxing by placing them in a smaller box first and then in a larger box padded with additional cushioning materials. It’s also essential to label these boxes clearly with “Fragile” and “This Side Up” to alert movers to handle them with care. Following these tips can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your fragile belongings during transit.

Material for packing fragile items for safe transportation
Ensure your fragile objects are protected with the utmost care

Update Your Address and Transfer the Needed Documents

When relocating to a new state, updating your address and transferring necessary documents is crucial for a seamless transition. Start by notifying the United States Postal Service (USPS) of your address change, either online or at a local post office, to ensure your mail is forwarded.

Next, update your address with banks, credit card companies, and any subscription services to avoid missing important notices or bills. Don’t forget to transfer your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration to your new state, which typically involves visiting the local DMV. Finally, make sure your insurance policies and any medical records are updated and transferred to providers in your new location.

A person using a laptop
Get all the change of address tips and do it swiftly

Prepare Your Kids for Moving

Preparing your children for a move is crucial to help them cope with the changes and transition smoothly into their new environment. Start by discussing the move openly and positively, giving them ample time to process the information and express their feelings. After all, there could be some negative effects you surely want to avoid.

Involve them in the moving process, from packing their own belongings to decorating their new room, to make them feel included and excited about the change. Maintain a routine as much as possible to provide a sense of stability and reassurance. Introduce them to their new community and school in advance, if possible, to alleviate any anxieties about making new friends or adapting to a new setting

Take Care of Your Furry Friends When Relocating to a Different State

When relocating with pets, begin by scheduling a visit to the vet for a health check-up, and vaccinations, and to obtain any necessary pet health records. Gradually acclimate your pet to their travel carrier by allowing them to spend time in it with familiar blankets or toys. On a moving day, keep your pets in a quiet, secure area away from the hustle and bustle, or consider boarding them or having a friend look after them.

Update their ID tags and microchip information with your new address. Once you arrive at your new home, set up a comfortable space for them with their familiar items before gradually introducing them to the rest of the house. By taking these steps, you can help minimize stress and ensure a smoother adjustment for your pets to their new environment.

Two kids in Houston
Your kids and pets should be prepared for everything that goes with the relocation, too

Making New Friends Is Fun, but Don’t Forget the Old Ones

It’s always great when you have a chance to meet new people and learn more about different cultures, etc. But making friends is not always easy when you are a newbie in town. However, there are so many ways of meeting people, and we are sure that you will soon meet someone through a job or hobbies. 

Moving away from friends and having to say bye before you move is tough, especially if you are so close to them. But distance means nothing. Just because you now live in another town or country, that does not mean you should neglect those people who were with you and helped you in so many good ways. If you no longer see each other so often, you can plan a visit and group calls. Staying in touch will help you cope with moving away from friends.

A group of friends in the park
Keep all of your friends close

Start Your New Chapter With Confidence and Book the Best Auto Transport Company

Moving to another state is a significant life event that requires careful planning and preparation. From packing your household efficiently to preparing your kids and pets for the move, each step is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

Remember, the key to a successful move is organization, early planning, and choosing the right moving company that aligns with your needs. Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving offers reliable, stress-free moving services tailored to your interstate relocation needs. Contact us today and take the first step toward a new chapter in your life.

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