Moving to a new state can be an incredibly exciting time in your life. Maybe you are relocating to be closer to family, take a new job or benefit from a lower cost of living. Even if your family is eager for the change, the process can be overwhelming. If you are moving from an apartment to a home, it can be even more intimidating. You might be asking yourself “What do I need to do when moving to a new state?”
Between finding a new home and packing all your belongings, moving is often time-consuming, especially when crossing state lines. Fortunately, careful planning and our comprehensive guide covering steps to moving to a new state can make your move seamless.
Finding a new job and home are usually the first steps to relocating out of state. Discovering a new place to live can seem overwhelming, especially if you plan on buying a house. You can’t visit your new location as often due to distance, which makes planning more challenging.
Luckily, you can take steps to simplify the process. Buying a home in a new area lets you explore an entirely new housing market. You might find more designs or opportunities than in your hometown. Keep an open mind and follow these tips.
Perform extra research: Research is an integral part of any home purchase, especially for those moving between states. Once you have a destination in mind, start researching the local housing market as soon as you can. Browse different neighborhoods and come up with your desired house configuration. The earlier you start, the more informed decision you can make when it’s time to select a house.
Find the right real estate agent: Choosing a reliable real estate agent is another central part of house hunting. Your agent is a valuable partner in your out-of-state moving process. They will most likely get to interact with the potential houses more than you, so it’s essential to find an agent you trust. Some have a relocation certification, meaning they specialize in helping new residents find a home. Look for real estate agents with ratings or extensive training. They can help you narrow down homes and give valuable information about the new area.
Visit the new location: If you have the time and resources, visiting your new location is an excellent option. Seeing possible homes in person gives you a more thorough perspective. You might notice things that don’t appear in online listings, such as the neighborhood’s vibe. You can also glimpse local culture, try nearby restaurants and explore other spots. The more time you spend there, the more comfortable it can feel. If early travel is impossible, you could research the area with online reviews, Google Maps or informational blog posts.
Ask questions: Moving to a new state is a significant change. Different states have varying regulations and processes. As you search for a new home, don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you need. Whether you ask your real estate agent, new neighbors or helplines, these people can help smooth your moving process. You might be unfamiliar with processes for inspections, closing or other steps in your new state. It’s best to ensure you have clear answers instead of trying to figure it out yourself. You’ll save time in the long run.
Travel for select dates: Your new home could be thousands of miles away, making it challenging to attend specific events like the inspection and closing in person. If you cannot travel for every date, experts advise making time for the in-person inspection. This event is worth the extra travel because you can see your home’s potential issues up close. Inspectors might also provide extra maintenance advice or point out small fixes not included in the report. If you can’t make it to the inspection or closing because of the distance, ask for remote options instead.
Once you’ve finalized your closing paperwork, it’s time to start following steps to moving to a new state. With your new address, you can do everything from forwarding your mail to transferring your utilities.
What to Do When Moving to a New State
With your keys in hand, it’s time to start prepping for the big move. Using a checklist helps you stay organized during the switch. This guide includes our tips for relocating to a new state so you can make the process as easy and efficient as possible. Continue reading our guide that offers steps to help you relocate to a new state or jump to a section using the links below.
The first thing to do when moving to a new state is to start budgeting. The costs of moving can be high, especially when you’re moving across state lines. If you want to hire a professional mover, it could cost you thousands of dollars. Even for a DIY move, you may need to pay for:
Moving equipment: You will need moving equipment for a DIY move, such as an appliance dolly, moving blankets and furniture pads.
Packing materials: You may also want to acquire materials for packing your belongings, such as moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, hand tools and tape.
Truck rental: A truck rental and gas are some of the costliest parts of a DIY move. Choose a moving truck that suits your time and budget. A truck with a smaller capacity will force you to leave some possessions behind or make multiple trips, while an overly large vehicle may waste space and cause additional financial strain.
Vehicle transportation: If you are shipping your car to your new state, you should include this cost in your moving budget. You can request estimates from auto transport companies. If you will be flying to your new home, include the flight expense as well.
Hidden costs: Many DIY movers forget to account for some of the hidden moving expenses, such as car servicing, food and lodging costs during your trip, road taxes and tolls.
To create your moving budget, begin with the amount you are able and willing to spend. Next, list your necessary moving expenses and round them up so you have extra money if any unexpected expenses arise. If you are moving for a new job or position, check whether your employer plans to cover any of your moving expenses.
2. Create A Home Inventory
Next on your moving state-to-state checklist is a home inventory. This list will help you determine what you want to take and leave behind. You likely have many belongings to move from one home to another. Remembering which items you have already packed and what you want to keep or get rid of can quickly become unmanageable, which makes a home inventory list invaluable.
Whether you hire professional packers or handle the packing yourself, documenting everything beforehand can help you keep track of your belongings and stay organized during your move. A home inventory will also help you estimate your move’s cost and enable you to unpack quickly after you relocate.
3. Sort And Pack Your Belongings
Packing is a notorious — and sometimes dreaded — part of moving. Sorting your possessions can simplify the process. Moving is an excellent opportunity to downsize, and you can divide your belongings into things you want to keep or give away. The more you get rid of, the less you’ll have to carry to your new home.
After you sort your belongings, it’s time to pack them securely. Here are a few packing tips.
Pack unneeded items first: Packing might extend over several weeks or months as you prepare to move. It’s best to have a loose plan for gathering your belongings. Start by packing the items you use least and won’t need to consistently retrieve. For instance, you probably won’t immediately need decorative features like picture frames or posters. But items like silverware and clothing are essential for everyday life. By packing rarely used belongings first, you reduce the need to reopen boxes.
Put similar items together: Stay organized by keeping similar items together. This strategy makes it easier to unpack items later. For example, you might pack all your kitchen items into one box, or every article of clothing together.
Label boxes: Labeling is essential for organized unpacking. It helps you keep track of items during the move and simplifies the finding process once you reach your new home. You should also maintain an exact inventory of your boxes. If you start with 15 boxes, you should have 15 when you arrive. Keeping a list helps you account for everything during the complicated process.
Start early: Once you set a moving date, start packing as soon as possible. Add extra time in case last-minute surprises occur. The more time you give yourself, the smoother your process becomes. Waiting until the last minute causes extra stress, making moving seem more daunting. You could draft a schedule that organizes your available time and remaining rooms. A plan makes it easier to stay on track and use time wisely.
4. Hire A Moving Company
Next, research moving companies and select a reputable one for your move. Professional movers can simplify the complexities associated with interstate moves. The moving company you choose should be experienced and reliable. While you are researching companies, check the ratings and reviews.
To find the best price, request several quotes. Before giving you a quote, a moving company should perform a video survey or in-person inspection of your belongings. If a price sounds too good to be true or you get a quote without anyone looking at your belongings, this could be a red flag for a disreputable company.
Alternatively, you may want to consider a more affordable option, such as renting a moving container. You can use this container in your move and for temporary storage. The cost for a portable moving container depends on the container’s size and how long you will be renting it.
5. Transfer Your Utilities And Cancel Memberships
Before your move, reach out to your utility companies and inform them that you’re moving. Utilities typically include:
Electricity
Gas
Central heating
Security system
Water
Sewer
Cable
Internet
If you have a new address, you can schedule an installation or transfer date. Follow the steps below to transfer your utilities to your new home:
Write a list of all the utilities you need to change.
Evaluate your utility services to determine whether you need them.
Determine whether you want to transfer your utilities or find new providers.
Notify your utility companies about your move beforehand.
Pay outstanding balances.
Receive utility deposits.
Look for new utility service providers.
Additionally, if you belong to a gym, organization, club or hobby group, be sure to cancel your membership before your move. You usually need to call organizations directly to schedule a cancellation, but you can also sometimes complete it online.
6. Forward Your Mail And Rent A P.O. Box
Forwarding your mail is typically a fast and easy process. You can complete the process long before your move. While the United States Postal Service may catch your outdated address and automatically forward your mail to your new address, this doesn’t always happen. To ensure your mail arrives at your new address, visit USPS online and select the date you want to start forwarding your mail.
You may want to consider renting a P.O. box, especially if you have not yet decided where you want to live in your new state. A P.O. box is a safe, secure mailbox located in a post office. It tends to be safer than a personal mailbox, as no one can tamper with or steal your mail. A P.O. box is also convenient, as many locations offer 24-hour access to your mail.
Renting a P.O. box will ensure you continue receiving mail while you look for a house in your new town. If you own a home business or are a frequent traveler, a P.O. box is an excellent alternative to mail piling up in your mailbox. But if you’ve selected a new home, you can send your mail there immediately.
7. Change Your Address
Changing your address is essential for ensuring you receive all your bills, letters, subscriptions and packages at your new home. Update the following items, institutions and groups of your change of address.
Bills: Write a list of all the bills you receive in the mail and update your address online.
Magazine subscriptions: Update your magazine subscriptions online. Visit each magazine’s website and input your customer number into the change-of-address form. You can find your customer number on the inside flap or the back of a recent issue. If you cannot update your address online, you can call the publication to request a change.
Bank: Your bank needs to send you statements and verify your billing address. If you have access to online banking, you may have the option to update your address online. If not, you can call your bank’s customer service line or visit in person.
Family and friends: Let your family and friends know your new address. Make a list of every person you want to notify and email everyone. You can also make a personalized moving announcement.
Online shopping sites: If you frequently shop online, you should update your address on the websites you use. Many online retailers offer one-click checkout to save you time, but this can be a problem if you forget to update your address. If you update now, you won’t have to worry about workers accidentally delivering any packages to your previous home.
Clubs and organizations: If you belong to any clubs or organizations, contact these companies to let them know about your change of address. Alternatively, you may be able to update your address online. If you are part of a smaller organization, you may have to call or write a request to update your address.
8. Register To Vote
As soon as you move, update your voter registration so you can participate in upcoming elections. Failing to do so may mean you can’t vote when you arrive at the polls. If you are not yet a registered voter, take care of it soon after you move.
Typically, there are multiple ways you can register to vote, including online, by mail and in person. There are many tasks to accomplish after you move, so it’s crucial to prioritize. Check the voter registration deadline in your new state. In some states, you can register the same day you move, and in others, you must register no later than a month before an election date.
9. Notify Schools And Transfer Medical Records
If you are moving with children, you will need to inform their current school about the move. When you enroll your children in their new school, transfer their school records as quickly as possible. You may be able to arrange a direct transfer between the schools, which can save you time. Ask your children’s new school about extracurriculars offered and for a list of needed supplies.
You may need to send other essential documents to their new schools, such as medical records, evidence of immunization and recommendation letters. Visit your family dentist and physician to obtain copies of your medical records. You may need your medical documentation to register with a new doctor and dentist in your new state.
10. Establish Residency
For tax purposes, you will need to establish legal residency if you are permanently moving to another state and making it your place of residence. Failing to do so could mean you owe taxes in both states and subject you to hefty fines. Check out your new state’s website to find information on how you can establish a domicile.
11. Register Your Pet And Vehicles
If you have a pet, you may have to register it in your new county or city. Deadlines and requirements vary from state to state, but many require pet owners to register pets about a month after the move. Registering your pet assures the state that the animal has received necessary rabies shots for public safety purposes. Before your move, take your pet to the vet for a medical checkup and request their immunization records.
When moving to a new state, you will also need to register your vehicle with the state. Update your auto insurance policy, and then register your vehicle with your proof of insurance, proof of residency and proof of identity. You may want to do this at the same time that you get a new driver’s license.
12. Get A New Driver’s License
If you will be driving in your new state, you will need a driver’s license from that state’s DMV. After moving, many states give new residents a specific deadline to obtain a driver’s license. Check the requirements in your state to determine how much time you have to obtain your new license.
Though the requirements for transferring a driver’s license vary between states, you may need your current driver’s license, proof of your Social Security number and residency, and another form of identification. If you don’t get a new driver’s license or a state identification card by your state’s deadline, you may need to pay a fine. In many states, you can order your new ID online. If this is not an option in your new state, you can visit the DMV instead.
13. Change Your Insurance
After moving, you may need to change your car insurance. Though many insurance providers operate nationwide, double-check that yours will provide coverage in your new state. If not, you will need to find a different provider.
Wait until after you finish moving in before you cancel your current policy and switch your insurance to your new state. To do so, gather all the necessary documentation, contact your insurance company and request quotes from other providers. Moving to a different state may help you get a lower rate.
14. Find Nearby Stores
You want your transition to be as smooth as possible. Getting used to local grocery stores, banks, post offices, schools and other institutions can make you feel more at home. After you move in and work through a few boxes, it’s helpful to drive around and visit these essential places. You can use Google Maps to identify the nearest locations to you and start using them. It might seem strange at first to visit new stores, but over time, it will feel more natural.
15. Research New Doctors
Another essential moving step is to find new doctors. You should locate nearby offices for:
Physicians
Eye doctors
Hospitals
Pharmacies
Veterinarians
Dentists
Mental health counselors and psychiatrists
Other specialists like gynecologists or dermatologists
Depending on your health care needs, you might need to register yourself as a new patient right away. You should also transfer essential prescriptions to your new pharmacy as soon as possible to avoid running out.
Save Money During A Move
Interstate moves can be expensive. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce your moving costs.
Get multiple quotes: If you plan on hiring professional movers, ask multiple companies for estimates. Prices can vary significantly, so getting several quotes can help you find the most affordable service. Compare the quotes based on the price, services, terms and conditions. You may also be able to reduce your costs by asking the mover for a better price. Rates are not concrete, so there may be some room for negotiation.
Do it yourself: Handling the move yourself can save you money. Additionally, you may prefer to handle the task of packing up your belongings yourself. As long as you aren’t in a rush, you should have plenty of time before moving day to pack everything yourself. However, you may want to consider hiring a professional packing service for valuable or special items like hot tubs, pianos, antique furniture and large metal safes.
Declutter your home: One of the best ways to save on your moving costs is to declutter your home. Get rid of items you no longer need or use. If you don’t need it, you shouldn’t pay to move it. Professionals who move your belongings across a long distance will charge based on the shipment’s weight, so the more items you move, the more expensive the move will be.
Sell unwanted items: If you sell unwanted belongings, you can spend less by moving fewer items and adding more cash to your moving budget. You will save on transportation costs and packing materials, and the extra money can allow you to pay movers or buy new furniture when you move in. Organize a yard sale or online sale to get cash for your unwanted belongings.
Get help from friends: After letting your friends and family know about your relocation, ask if they would be willing to help you move. You’ll be grateful for the extra pairs of hands when you need to move heavy items like furniture. Your friends and family may even be willing to help you do some packing. Ask friends and family if they have any cardboard boxes, as these are often a significant packing expense.
Look for tax deductions: If you are eligible for tax deductions, you may be able to get some of your money back after your move via a tax return. For example, if you are moving a far distance for a new job, your moving costs may be eligible for a tax deduction. Save all receipts and documents from your move and speak with a tax consultant after completing your move.
Change your home and auto insurance: One of the best tips for cheap moving is to change your home and auto insurance. Insurance rates vary by state, so you may be able to find a more favorable rate in your new state. If your car insurance went up after moving, you may want to consider finding a new insurance provider.
When you combine these cost-saving tips, your move to a new state can become much more affordable.
FAQs About What To Do When Moving To A New State
Moving to a new state has many considerations. It’s normal to have many questions about the process, especially if it’s your first time. These are a few common questions about moving and helpful responses.
1. How Much Does Moving To A New State Cost?
It’s challenging to set an exact cost because moves vary based on many factors.
Moving distance: The average price for local moves within the United States is between $800 and $2,500. But long-distance moves can be significantly more expensive, falling between $2,200 and $5,700. The farther you move, the more expensive the process can be. Longer geographical distances equal increased fees for moving trucks. You might also have to pay for hotels, airfare and food during the extended travel period.
Number of people: Moving out of a one-bedroom apartment is usually less costly than moving from a five-bedroom home. Families might incur more fees than single people because they have more belongings.
Amount of baggage: Movers typically charge by the hour. If you have many possessions, you can expect to pay a higher price. You’ll also need larger vehicles to store your belongings, at an additional cost. Even if you don’t hire a moving company, you’ll probably pay more for packing materials if you plan on bringing a lot of baggage.
You can find moving calculators online to estimate how much yours might cost. Remember, setting a budget is the first step in any interstate move.
2. When Is The Best Time To Move?
The best time to move depends on your preferences and needs. If you must relocate for a new job or other responsibilities, you may not have a choice in the timing. You might have to move into your home before a job start date, putting you on an accelerated timeline.
If you have more control over your moving date, you can choose a specific time of year and week to move. You can consider time frames like these.
Seasons: Each season has pros and cons. Summer months are the most popular moving months in the United States because of the ideal weather. It’s also usually easier for employees to take off work in the summer, allowing them more freedom for moving arrangements. However, because it’s the busiest season, moving companies might charge more. On the other hand, winter months might have more inclement weather like snow and ice. But demand is much lower, giving you more flexibility for scheduling and lower prices.
Time of day: If you hire a moving company, you need to schedule a time for them to arrive. Unexpected situations occur and the process often takes longer than you think, so it’s usually better to start early in the morning to give your crew more time to complete everything. There is usually less demand for movers on weekdays than on weekends.
3. How Does Moving Affect Your Insurance?
Moving can impact your insurance policies. It’s crucial to inform your insurance providers of your upcoming move. You should supply them with your new address and other updated contact information. Your policy might shift when you move because different states have varying insurance requirements.
For example, car insurance rates depend on the area’s claim history and your average mileage. These numbers will likely change when in your new location, making it necessary to obtain a new insurance policy. You will also need to get a different home insurance policy for your new house or rental. Insurance professionals can guide you through this process and make the transition easier.
Get The Insurance You Need From David Pope Insurance Services, LLC
If you’re wondering what to do when you move to a new state, we’re here to help. David Pope Insurance is a family-owned insurance provider local to Union, Mo. We understand everyone has different insurance needs, which is why we aim for maximum flexibility in the coverages we find for clients. This has allowed us to become one of Missouri’s most reputable insurance brokers.
Tell us about your unique insurance needs, and we will help you figure out what coverage you need and what premiums are available. Contact us to learn more about changing car insurance after a move or request your custom quote today.
