According to the United States Census Bureau, in 2021, about 8.4% of Americans had moved out of state.
Moving out of state involves packing belongings, finding a place to live, and making new friends. This can be a time-consuming and challenging process that takes patience and planning.
Having a moving plan is essential since you will be organized and prepared for what is in the new state.
Are you planning on moving state soon but not sure where to start? Keep reading to know eight things you need to do before the big move.
1. Research Your New State
Before moving out of the city, it’s essential to know more about where you’re moving to. Preferably, take a trip to the new state and spend time exploring. Bike rides and long walks are a great way to check out neighborhoods.
You can research local schools on websites if you have children. If you are commuting, look into the commute times. Get estimated travel time for a car and transit.
If you can’t visit in person, use online Google maps to explore the neighborhoods. To confirm crime rates in the state, use crime websites.
2. Cost of Living
Knowing just how much more or less your new life in the new state will cost is wise. Use a cost-of-living calculator to check the differences in transportation, food, housing, and clothes.
Remember to check up on state taxes, too. Research your new city’s income tax and property sales. If you’re an entrepreneur, inquire about business success, license, and payroll taxes.
The more informed you’re about the cost of living and taxes, the more you can adequately budget for moving to another state.
3. Moving and Storage Options
Moving all your items will most likely be the most challenging and biggest expense aspect of moving out of state. Prior planning will make this part of moving a whole lot easier.
Hire Muscleman Moving professional to guide you on how to pack, load, and drive a moving track. Alternatively, if you can’t afford to work with the experts, rent a moving truck and sweet-talk your loved ones to help you load up.
You can also use the portable container for moving, packing, and storage. It is an affordable option compared to hiring movers and renting trucks and the most flexible option.
In this case, your budget will determine the means you’ll use when relocating.
4. Update Your Address
You can always submit a permanent change of address form with the USPS that will forward mail from your old address to your new home when you’re preparing to move.
In the meantime, make sure to go online and change your mailing address for all your accounts. Remember to also share the new address with family and friends so that they know where to find you.
5. Set Aside Extra Money For Moving
Since moving to a new state can cost a lot of money, make sure you have some savings to cover all the unexpected moving expenses.
When relocating, you’ll need to pay for:
• Gas
• Shipping your car
• House deposits
• Hotel accommodation and meals
• Items for the new house
• Packing supplies
Considering all these possible costs will help you in making a proper budget.
6. Power Up Your Utilities
When moving to another city, the last thing you want is to show up and not have your utilities up and running.
Take time before relocating and set up utilities like sewer, water, garbage pickup, power, and internet. Once you do these, you’ll manage to have all the comforts of your home ready.
Consider packing a box of necessities. Things like paper towels, toilet paper, toothbrushes, and towels need to be readily avoided for inconveniences.
7. Change Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
Getting a new driver’s license and vehicle registration should be among the first things you do since each state has different numbers. Each state has a range of 10 to 30 days for you to use your current details.
Please make an appointment in advance because it will speed up the process and get you out of the long wait at the DMV. Be keen to confirm what documents are required and whether you’ll require a driving or vision test.
Some states require people to show proof of their citizenship as well as their social security and proof of residence. While doing all this, don’t forget to change the address of your auto insurance policy.
8. Healthcare
Your current healthcare won’t function if you’re relocating out of state. If your job offers health insurance, read through the policy to figure out deductibles and what’s covered. Even if you don’t need to change the insurance firms, you’ll need to find a new pharmacy and doctor.
In case you’re self-employed, you’ll have to report your move to the health insurance marketplace and search for options in your new state. If you find the process so complicated and time-consuming, find a health insurance agent to assist.
Call your current doctor’s office to get copies of your prescriptions and medical records. This will make it easy for you and your new doctor when medical needs arise.
You Now Know Things to Do Before Moving State
You can boldly take on the move and still have energy left over to celebrate now that you know exactly what to do when moving state. Keep this checklist handy while planning your new trip to stay organized!
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