Moving out of state is both challenging and exciting. From budgeting for the relocation, packing, finding the right moving company, and learning your way around a new city to finding a new home, long-distance relocating can seem overwhelming. To help, we’ve put together some important things to consider when you’re moving to a new state.
Moving Out of State Checklist
Check out these simple yet effective tips that can make your relocation across state lines smoother.
Work Out a Budget For the Move
Planning how much you’re likely going to spend on the relocation is a crucial step. If you’re moving for a job, the employer will likely offer reimbursement on moving company expenses, storage costs, and temporary housing. But, if you’re doing this on your own, make sure you work out the costs so the move doesn’t put a heavy strain on your wallet. For those looking to save money, DIY moving is a good idea. Make a spreadsheet and jot down all moving costs, so you can get a clear picture of how much you’re likely to incur. This will ensure that you don’t spend more than you can afford.
Some of the moving costs to consider include:
- Professional movers
- Moving rates
- Packing services
- Insurance
- Hidden fees
- Self-moving
- Truck rental
- Gas/mileage
- Food and drinks
- Packing supplies
- Rental equipment
- Hotels if moving a long distance
- Vehicle shipping
- Storage costs
- Storage rental
- Insurance
- Costs to move items to/from the storage unit
- Other possible costs
- Utility setup
- Purchase of new furniture, appliances, or other household items
Decide Between a Professional vs. DIY Move
Once you have a budget, it becomes easier to narrow down the options — whether to hire a professional moving company or go the DIY way. Cost and convenience are two determining factors when making the choice between professional movers vs. a DIY effort. The decision also hinges on other points, like how much stuff there is to move, how far the new city is from the current location, and whether you can lift and haul heavy goods. Give these points careful thought before arriving at a decision.
Downsize Before Moving
Decluttering your current home is a simple and effective way to make sure you’re only packing what needs to go with you. Getting rid of unwanted items means that you’ll save time and money by packing and hauling only the things that matter. Evaluate items you want to take along and check to see if they are too heavy or hard to move. Sometimes, it’s cheaper to buy new items after the move rather than transport old goods. You may end up with an updated living space or bedroom set for less than the cost of keeping the old one! When you’re emptying closets, create three piles — one for sale items, a donation pile for gently used items, and a trash box for the dump. This will help you get rid of everything you don’t need in an organized manner.
Use Professional Storage for Added Convenience
Self storage comes in handy during an out-of-state move. If you’re planning to sell a home in your current city, packing non-essentials and stowing them in a self-storage unit can help stage your home for a quick sale before you relocate. Finding a new apartment or home immediately upon arrival in your new city may not be possible. Using a storage facility to hold your belongings during this transition phase takes the stress out of the relocation process. You can find CubeSmart storage units at accessible locations across the country, so it’s easy to find a facility that suits your needs.
Out-of-State Moving Companies
Choosing a reputable moving company will give you more peace of mind when relocating out of state. The best way to find a trusted moving firm is to ask friends and family for recommendations and check online customer reviews. Conduct research and request a quote from at least two or three providers before zeroing in on one.
Pricing varies across service providers, so shop around a bit to find an affordable moving company that’s also reliable. Be sure to ask about any extra charges or fees. This will save you the sticker shock of extra costs when the final invoice arrives.
Interstate movers need to comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which require them to produce detailed information regarding licenses, insurance, and ID. Verifying all of these details will ensure you’re entrusting your move to a dependable company with valid credentials. For a complex, coast-to-coast move, it’s best to recruit a full-service, long-distance mover with an excellent customer service record.
Cost of Moving to Another State
Whether you’re using a DIY approach to moving or hiring reputed movers, the cost of moving to a different state is rather unpredictable. While moving companies provide estimates, they’ll determine the final amount only once the process is over. Similarly, it’s possible to arrive at a ballpark figure for truck rentals, but there may be additional costs, which you may realize during or after the move. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, using professional services will cost around $4,300, based on an average weight of 7,400 pounds and an average distance of 1,225 miles. This number includes supplies and packaging assistance.
According to a popular truck rental company, the cost of leasing a 10 ft. transporter in Miami, FL, and driving it to New York, NY costs around $1,700. The price also varies depending on the size of the vehicle, length of the rental time, fuel costs, additional equipment rented, and whether the move is a one-way or a return journey.
Although moving out of state can seem challenging, planning and organization can help you accomplish the task with ease. Using CubeSmart Self Storage is a convenient way to hold goods temporarily, which makes packing and moving seamless.
Have you moved out of state? What can we learn from your experience. Share your tips in the comments!
Header image via Pixabay
