Relocating to a different state requires more preparation than just moving to another neighborhood in the same city.
On top of packing all your belongings, you need to make sure that things will be ready when you move into your new home.
Preparing a checklist can be very helpful in sorting out all the details of your move. It can also lessen the stress of moving and ensure you don’t forget anything important.
To help you keep track of the things you need to pack and services to arrange, here’s a guide you can use before moving to a new state.
Select a Trustworthy Moving Service
While some people prefer to do things themselves to save on moving costs, many people like to hire professionals because they can help make the process of moving more seamless. The extra hand when loading and unloading items can also make your life easier. But you also need to make sure that you hire a reputable moving company to avoid getting caught in a moving scam. For instance, if you are moving from Tampa to another state, you can select long distance moving companies Tampa residents trust.
When choosing a moving company, make sure to check online customer reviews and if they comply with the regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Make sure to also ask about all the details regarding the payment process, including extra fees or charges they may add, and the delivery spread or interval of when all your belongings will arrive in your new home. You can also ask if they offer packing services to help save time and energy.
Plan Your Moving Schedule
Your moving date affects a lot of factors in the process. You might encounter higher costs in various services when moving on weekends, holidays, and during summer. If you choose to move on a weekday, the rates are more affordable. Once you have settled on the date, you can work your way backward to set the days when you will pack and make necessary arrangements. Also, take into consideration your responsibilities at work and at home when creating a schedule. If you need help from your loved ones to pack up your things, you can also check when they will be available.
Secure Your Job Status Before The Move
If you are moving because you have a new job opportunity in another state, then your employment status won’t be an issue. But if this is not the case, it’s best to search for an employer before your moving date. You can reach out to people you know who are living in the area where you will relocate for possible job leads or search for openings online by yourself. If you still haven’t secured a job when you are about to move, that’s also okay as long as you are financially ready to cover living expenses while looking for work in the new state.
Look For Temporary Lodgings If Necessary
When it comes to your new home, the best scenario is that you can already move in as soon as you get there. But if your house isn’t ready yet upon your arrival, make arrangements where you can stay temporarily. It can be at a local inn or at your friend’s place. Also, consider the location of your temporary lodgings and how close it will be to your new workplace. Take some time to research the area and routes, so your commute will be easier.
Inform People You Are Moving
Let your family, friends, and colleagues know you’re moving. You can share with them your new mailing address and other contact information so that they know how to reach you. If you are renting a place, inform your landlord so you can make the necessary arrangements like cleaning up and making repairs before you leave to get your security deposit back. At work, talk to your boss as well, especially if you are moving due to other reasons not related to your current employment within the company. This is a good time to request time off from work when you need to prepare for the move. If you have children, sit down and talk to them about the move. Discuss with them the changes you will all experience when you settle in your new home. Also, inform their school so you can transfer your kids’ records to their new school.
Pack Strategically
Before boxing up all your belongings, keep in mind that paring down the items you will bring can lower your expenses. The fewer boxes to transport, the lower the moving cost will be. So, take stock of what you own and focus on bringing the items you will need in your new home instead. By bringing only what’s necessary, you can also make packing easier. As you go through your belongings, set aside the things you want to donate or sell.
You can have a garage sale and sell your unused items to earn some extra cash. Meanwhile, you can donate things you no longer need to charity.
When packing, begin with the non-essential items or the things you won’t use as the moving date approaches. These can include home décor, books, and electronics. Take care of the essentials near the date of your move like dinnerware and toiletries. Remember, pack all important documents and records in a separate container, so you can still access them before you relocate.
Transfer Of Utilities And Forwarding Your Mail
Before you leave, contact utility companies like water, electricity, internet, and cable, and inform them that you are relocating. While you are at it, schedule a transfer of services to your new address, so you can make sure your new home is ready for you when you arrive. You can also use this time to cancel or transfer any membership you are still paying, including access to the local gym. In addition, forward your mail to your new address before you move.
Confirm All Moving Details
A couple of weeks before you move, call the moving company you hired and confirm the moving date and arrival time to ensure that they have the correct address and schedule. You can also reach out to the realtor or landlord of your new place to confirm your home is ready once you arrive. This can help give you peace of mind as you have somewhere to stay and your belongings will be delivered at the expected time. The last thing you want is scrambling to look for a hotel with a vacancy or learning your things are still on the road.
Moving from one state to another involves plenty of preparations, so a checklist is a must-have to ensure you don’t miss any important details of the move. Keep in mind that you are not just transporting your personal belongings, but you are also starting a new life in a different place. Remember to make the necessary arrangements to help you easily settle in your new home.