MOVING TO ANOTHER STATE CHECKLIST: The Ultimate Guide

Moving to a new state is often listed as one of the top ten most stressful life events. With so many moving parts and stages involved in an out-of-state move, now is the time to become your most organized self. You can’t go wrong with a realistic budget and timetable, as well as a clear list of action items. We made a moving out-of-state checklist to help you leave your old home on a good note and get ready for an exciting new chapter in your life.

When moving to another state, it is very important to have a moving checklist to go along with your online planning. This is especially true when you are looking into good moving companies. A full checklist of the main items to consider before moving to another state is provided below.

Moving to Another State Checklist

Moving, whether across the hall, across town, or across the country, is never simple. However, in general, the further you travel, the more details you must consider. Make a checklist of everything you need to do before you move out of state, from creating a moving budget to turning off your energy.

Check out this checklist and recommendations for moving to another state (and hopefully keep your sanity intact).

Checklist for Two Months Before Moving to Another State

You’re still working globally two months before your move. Consider this stage to be prepared to prepare. You should spend the next two weeks planning, arranging, and preparing, checking off chores like:

#1. Establish your budget goals

A smooth interstate transfer necessitates careful budgeting and will almost certainly necessitate a significant upfront cost. Local moves cost $700 to $5,000 on average, and long-distance moves cost $4,000 to $10,000 or more. Your overall budget will be determined by the size of the load, what you’re transporting, and how far you need to travel.

#2. Select the best moving company

Moving services are in charge of one of the most important components of your relocation, so do your homework before hiring. Many organizations will send a consultant to your home to assist you in estimating the cost and details of your vacation. They should assess the size of the vehicle you’ll require, estimate the overall weight of the load, and discuss your insurance choices with you.

#3. Create a moving schedule timeline.

Planning ahead of time can make your long-distance move go more smoothly. A rough timeline makes it easier to plan rental times, delivery times, arrival times, and other events. You can keep track of everything by making a spreadsheet or using a physical moving-out-of-state checklist.

#4. Create a thorough Plan B for your schedule.

Even the best-laid plans, including your move-in date, can alter at the last minute when it comes to moving. It is always beneficial to plan ahead of time for changes. You can, for example, hire movers who offer flexible price estimates and will not punish you if you need to change critical details on short notice.

#5. Begin the purging and cleaning procedure.

Begin discarding unneeded clothing and items at least two months before your move. This will save you from a frantic rush to make donations, hold a garage sale, or sort through old stuff just before your moving date. You might also think about hiring professional move-out cleaners in your region to help you prepare for the big move.

Six Weeks Before the Move

You should have chosen an official moving date by this time. You’ll need a date to hire movers, turn off and on utilities, solicit the support of friends, and other tasks. If you haven’t chosen a date yet, do so before moving on to the next item on your moving out-of-state checklist. It is now time to:

#6. Inventory your packing strategy

Make a house inventory before you start packing. Label boxes with their contents and indicate which room they go in – color labeling each room and its appropriate box is essential. It is useful not only for unpacking but also for insurance considerations. Hiring a professional organizer to assist with packing during this stage of your move can be well worth the money.

#7. Sort through your housekeeping paperwork

Gather and organize important documents in one location. For example, if you have students in your family, you may need to request their school transcripts. You should also collect official medical records from doctors and other healthcare providers at least six weeks before your relocation. It will take time to organize, so begin early.

#8. Apply for legal resident status in your new state

To avoid having to pay taxes in more than one state, it is important to set up legal residency, or domicile, in your new home state. Starting the process ahead of time helps you avoid penalties and other legal complications. For further information, go to your state’s official website.

#9. Update your address and forward your mail

The process of forwarding your mail through the United States Postal Service is simple, but you should do it a week or two ahead of time. Remember that you can do this online for a one-time fee of one dollar.
You may also sign up for “USPS Informed Delivery,” which sends you images of your mail to ensure you don’t miss any crucial documents or parcels.

#10. Request a leave of absence from work or school.

Moving out of state will take your whole attention and effort. If you need to request time off from school or work, do so ahead of time.
If you’re moving for work, your employer may offer relocation aid. Some firms refund lease termination expenses, temporary housing costs, and moving company costs.

Two Weeks Before Moving

It’s almost time! You should now establish more precise plans for moving to another state, with the following activities on your checklist:

#11. Disconnect utilities and install new services

Cancel your present utilities and start moving for utilities at your new home two weeks before you move. Remember to contact your current internet, power, and cable companies separately.

Because you’re moving to a new state, you’ll need a strategy for quickly activating utilities. Inquire with your realtor, possible landlord, or another relevant person for local information about establishing water, gas, electric, and phone service.

#12. Obtain a new driver’s license and register your vehicle

It’s critical to understand the nuances of obtaining a new driver’s license and registering your vehicle in a new state. There is normally a time limit for applying for a new driver’s license, so double-check the requirements of your new state. For legal and safety reasons, you need also to register your vehicle and update your insurance policy.

#13. Double-check and transfer your pet’s records

Before you move, you should obtain copies of your pet’s medical records and any necessary pet medicines. Also, remember to replace their collar and other ID badges. Verify pet registration, microchip, and ownership regulations wherever you’re moving. Pet regulations vary by state, however, in some states, police can demand proof of pet registration and vaccination records. You may be charged if you do not provide proof.

#14. Update your lenders, insurance companies, and voter registration forms

It isn’t always a pleasant process, but you must update your address with all lenders and insurance, including:

Student loan companies
Car dealer
Automobile insurance
Insurance for renters or homeowners

During this time, you should also update your voter registration.

#15. Complete any remaining minor repairs.

Conduct a final examination and walk-through of your entire house to ensure that everything is in working order. Take care of any obvious but minor faults that can be fixed with a toolkit. If you are unsure about doing a last-minute repair, engage a handyman. This will reduce future complaints or difficulties with your previous residence once you move.

One Week Before Crossing State Lines

Almost done! Maintain your focus by ensuring that you:

#16. Conduct a final inventory and confirm moving details

When you’re barely a week away from your relocation, it’s critical to double-check your moving out to another state checklist to ensure nothing has fallen through the gaps over the lengthy preparation process.

Check your labeled boxes twice and have photographic documentation of your inventory.
Keep critical documents and identity cards in a single, easily accessible bag that you keep close to you when moving.
Contact and/or email each company engaged in your transfer to ensure that everything is in order.

#17. Pack the rest of your essentials

At this time, the great majority of your belongings should be packed, leaving you with only your daily necessities and a few pieces of clothing. Keep your essentials in suitcases that are identified. You won’t have to hunt through boxes for a toothbrush, new socks, towels, linens, or a pillow this way. Important goods such as jewelry, birth certificates, car titles, and medicines should be kept close to you during the transfer to avoid them becoming misplaced in transit.

#18. Complete the transportation details

It’s important to decide on your mode of transportation and check the moving company’s schedule. Whether you’re renting a U-Haul, driving yourself, or flying, you need to plan ahead of time to ensure that you, your family, and your pets arrive in time to get your stuff.

#19. Thorough laundry and deep cleaning

Before you depart, do all of the washing and clean out the fridge. It’s ideal to leave your final deep cleaning until as close to your move-out date as feasible. Consider investing in the cost of professional deep cleaning to avoid complaints from new owners or tenants.

#20. Inform your neighbors

If you haven’t already, notify your neighbors that you’re moving approximately a week before you depart. You might also want to make some entertaining announcement cards to distribute across your new neighborhood.

What should I do before moving to another state?

Checklist for moving out of state? 11 Must-Dos to Avoid Major Problems:

Learn about your new city.
Examine the cost of living variations.
Research moving and storage possibilities.
Put money aside for moving expenses.
Boost your utilities
Research healthcare options.
Get a new driver’s license and vehicle registration.
Change your address.

What is the first thing to do when moving to a new state?

Important Steps to Take After Moving to a New State:

Look for a new job.
Find a new family doctor.
Enroll your child at a new school
Register your vehicle and transfer your license.
Update your voter registration information.
Purchase your new home.
Decorate and furnish your new home.
Greet your new neighbors.

How much money should I save if I want to move to another state?

When moving to another state, you should budget for at least three months of living expenses. This sum should be in addition to any moving charges you may incur. Before moving, research the work market in your new city.

What should I do 6 months before moving?

Checklist for six months before moving out of state:

Establish a budget.
Start decluttering.
Preparedness plans
Investigate school options

What state will pay you $10000 to move there?

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa, like Vermont, is attempting to revitalize its state by offering incentives to remote workers. They provide relocation compensation of $10,000. The payout is made over a year, and there are other eligibility prerequisites.

How long does it take to feel settled in a new state?

This big life transition should be planned out over the course of a year to 18 months. This does not imply that you will feel lost for the full 18 months, but it is a good idea to prepare yourself for the possibility that it will take that long until your new place truly feels like home.

What is a good state to relocate to?

The Best Places to Live in 2022

Washington
Minnesota
Utah
New Hampshire

What you should know before you move out?

Things You Should Know Before Moving Out:

Determine how much rent you can pay.
Narrow down the area.
Locate your ideal apartment.
Be wary of frequent rental frauds.
Get ready for moving day.
Go shopping for housing necessities.
Get to know your new surroundings.

How do I start a new state with no money?

How to Move When You Don’t Have Any Money:

Relocate to a low-cost-of-living community.
Apply for a job with take-out service.
Relocate to a location with a relocation initiative.
Use a friend’s automobile.
Make a move with a friend.
Get a sublease.
Couch surf at another person’s house.
Spend some time in a hostel.

Conclusion

You’ll be able to keep organized during the moving to another state procedure if you have a checklist. Also, if you update your lists and spreadsheets at least two months before you move, you’ll be ready for a smooth move. It’s wonderful to turn over a new leaf during an interstate relocation, but keeping track of your to-do list necessitates a comprehensive “moving to another state” checklist. Staying organized is the most important thing you can do while confronting a higher-risk move across state lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most moved to state in 2022?

Hawaii

Similarly, southern states with moderate weather and outdoor leisure, such as Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, rank first in terms of inbound versus outgoing migrations.

What states are most people leaving?

State of New Jersey New Jersey is the state with the highest rate of outbound migration. 71 percent of all movers in the state were leaving.

Why are people leaving Florida?

With 221,000 more US residents moving in than out, Florida was the #1 2021 destination for movers. Some inhabitants, on the other hand, are contradicting the popular narrative and leaving the Sunshine State behind. The high expense of living, especially soaring insurance premiums, is cited as a major factor by those who have left.