Moving to a new state entails all the typical tasks of moving including packing your belongings, closing or transferring utility accounts, forwarding your mail, etc. But making an interstate move is typically a more complex process involving more steps than moving to a new home that is on the other side of town.
Such a process likely involves hiring long distance movers as they can make everything a lot easier for you. Top-notch movers provide affordable relocation services, while you can pay extra for a full-service move that includes packing and unpacking.
Below is a more detailed outline of the steps you must take when moving to a new state.
1. Hire Reputable Interstate Movers
The most important step in navigating an out-of-state move is to hire reputable movers. A good place to start is to get moving quotes from your list of potential moving companies. This allows you to understand the prices for your move and winnow down your list of candidates.
Moving to a new state does incur significant expenses, but the precise amount you pay movers depends on many factors. The size and distance of your move, along with the services you request, determine the final cost.
Relocating a two-bedroom apartment within 50 miles costs a lot less than moving the belongings of a four-bedroom house 500 miles, for instance. By requesting quotes from several movers, you can lay out all the options before making a final, informed decision on who to hire.
2. Downsize Your Possessions, If Necessary
There are two advantages to downsizing your belongings before a move. The first is that you can save money on your upcoming relocation, as movers charge more when you request a larger moving truck.
If you throw away, donate, or sell items you no longer need, you may be able to shave off a few hundred dollars from the final cost of your move. When you have valuable belongings that you no longer require, you can even sell them online to make some pocket money.
Downsizing your belongings is also immensely important when you are moving to a smaller apartment or house. Perhaps you are relocating to a more expensive or populated city, which usually means smaller homes. Rather than paying to store items you can no longer use, dispose of them before you move.
3. Finalize Mail Forwarding and Utility Accounts
A crucial step in moving to another state is to forward your mail to your new address and transfer or close out your utility accounts.
Interstate moves typically entail having to open new utility accounts for every service, but you may be able to retain your internet provider.
Mail forwarding is extremely easy, as you can get it done through the USPS website or in person at your local post office. Ensure you provide them with the date that mail forwarding begins, as you do not want to stop receiving mail at your present address before you depart.
Your mail will forward for at least several months, but you should start the process of changing your address with banks, credit card companies, retailers, your employer, and any relevant organizations.
4. Pack For Your Move
If you are handling the packing and unpacking portion of your move to save money, begin on this process at least a few days before the movers arrive. Start by purchasing or obtaining moving boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap.
Those who are moving from a large house or apartment should try to tackle one room each day. Then you can carefully pack everything while retaining the items you use daily in a suitcase. If you attempt to pack up your entire house or apartment in a day, you may end up extremely frustrated.
Ensure you take other steps before the movers arrive at move out day, such as arranging your boxes and suitcases closer to your front door. You should also unplug all appliances a day in advance, ensuring your fridge and freezer are clean and empty before the movers arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I pay the movers?
If you are unsure whether to pay state to state movers before or after, you should know that every reputable mover will ask for payment when your move is complete. Some movers may ask you to put down a deposit, but it is likely a modest sum to secure your moving slot.
How do I store all my belongings, if I am moving to a smaller house or apartment?
If you are downsizing your home or apartment, you have two options for your excess belongings. You can either rent a storage unit in your destination city to store these items, or you can sell or donate them before your move out date.
Should I tip the moving professionals when they finish loading my belongings onto the moving truck?
Professional movers receive an hourly wage that makes up the vast majority of their income. They do not rely on tips to earn a living in the same way as service industry professionals. However, tipping is a custom in the moving sector, as it rewards friendliness and a good work ethic. For interstate moves, plan on tipping 5% to 10% of the final bill.
How many movers will arrive at my home on move out day?
The number of movers the moving company sends depends on your agreement. Whether you are paying an hourly rate or a flat fee for the whole move, your contract should state how many movers will be at your disposal for the duration of your moving window.
Can I have the movers transport unexpired food items in the moving truck?
No, most movers will not agree to transport food or any perishables in the moving truck. If you are transporting appliances such as a fridge and freezer, you must empty and thaw them out before the movers arrive at your home on move out day.
Final Thoughts
By having a clear understanding of what must get done before your move-out date, you can seamlessly navigate your move to a new state.
Between finding a place to live, closing out your existing lease, moving utility accounts, hiring movers, and renting a storage unit, you must get through a lot before you can call a new city your home.
