Moving is a massive undertaking. Add thousands of miles between your old home and your next destination and there’s a whole new layer of stress to account for. A moving checklist can help!
If you’re gearing up for an out-of-state move, we don’t have to tell you how many moving parts there are. From figuring out how to move your belongings to travel logistics, there’s a lot to consider. If you’re in the beginning stages of prepping for a big move, refer to this moving checklist to start off on the right foot.
Moving cross country is nothing to take lightly. Every region of the United States has a distinct culture and feel to adjust to. You’ll thank yourself for getting an initial lay of the land before moving. It’s important to get an idea of what your new city will truly be like. A city like say Boston, MA is going to be a lot different than Denver, CO or Portland, OR. Every area will have its own unique atmosphere. But sure that it will fit your ideal lifestyle.
When you have a city in mind and are gearing up for your big move, saving up is the name of the game. The last thing you want to do is spend all your money on moving expenses and arrive with barely enough cash to scrape by. Dipping into your savings or credit cards shouldn’t be an option if you can avoid it.
Don’t underestimate how much money a move of this scale will cost. According to Moving.com, the average cost of a long distance move totals out to around $4,890. However, this entirely depends on factors like moving truck rentals, how you’ll transport your vehicle(s), and if weather gets in the way. Be ready to spend on the initial move and give yourself some cushion money for when you get to your new destination.
If you’re willing to start from scratch when you get to your new state, it’s not a bad idea to sell or donate larger items before your move. Sofas, bed frames, tables, and other bulky furniture can be a pain to transport, and take up too much space. You might be better off trying to make money back on your current set of furniture and investing in new furniture after your arrival. Facebook Marketplace is available everywhere.
Speaking of furniture, if you do decide to buy a new set, be sure to think it through first. Ordering online can potentially be a great option if you don’t feel the need to be there in person to pick out your furniture. If you time it properly, it can arrive when you get to your new home or shortly after.
Sometimes what gets delivered isn’t exactly what you had in mind. Quality and sizing can fall short of our expectations. To prevent any unpleasant surprises, shop with accredited online furniture stores and assure the measurements of your new furniture will fit in your new home properly. If you can, see the furniture in person and have it delivered to your new home once you know what you want.
At this point, you should have a good idea of what you’re getting rid of and what you’re taking with you. Now you have three moving options: hire movers, rent a moving truck, or fit everything you can in your car and build your belongings back up when you get to your new home. Decide which of these paths will suit your needs best. If you’re planning to go the DIY route, secure moving supplies well ahead of time so you can take your time with the process.
If you opt to take most of your belongings with you, you’ll likely have to hire movers. But don’t simply pick the first company you find online. You want to guarantee that the company you hire is professional, experienced, and trustworthy. Be sure to carefully comb through reviews and even schedule an interview with potential movers. Your belongings are valuable and you should be assured that they are in good hands when moving to a new state.
Your packing plan will inform your travel logistics. If you choose to drive to your next destination, you’ll need to prep your vehicle for the journey. Get a tune-up, make sure your tires are in good shape and top off your fluids.
If you’re flying, buy your tickets in advance. If this is the case, think about what to do with your current vehicle(s) if you have one. Will you sell it and buy a new one? Or perhaps you want to get it shipped out to your next destination. Be sure to plan that aspect out well ahead of time.
For instance, when moving to Colorado you’ll want to upgrade your vehicle to a 4WD or AWD vehicle (unless you already have one). This is because you’ll want to still be able to drive through the snow and slippery roads safely. Anything less won’t get you to some locations year-round when you’re out camping or finding a more private trailhead.
If you have a pet, you’ll need to figure out the best course of action to get them to your next home comfortably. If you have a dog or cat under 20 pounds, you can fly with it in a carrier. Any animal above that weight is typically required to fly in the cargo hold. If you decide to drive to your next state, have a plan for bathroom stops. If you’re driving for multiple days, book out pet-friendly vacation rentals or hotels in advance.
Now that you have all the details of your move fleshed out, it’s time to officially close the chapter in your current home. Do you have a membership with your gym or local food co-op? Be sure to cancel them. If you have children, be sure to inform their school that they are moving. Transfer your utilities and internet plan. Forward your mail to your next home. This is made easy through USPS.com. Contact the DMV for a new license and change of address. Tie up any and all loose ends and prepare to re-establish yourself in your new state.
The big day is finally here! Congratulations! Now, all there is to do is get yourself, your family, and your belongings to your new home in one piece. Double-check a few days prior to assure your movers will still be picking up your belongings on time. Be sure to leave out essentials to bring with you while traveling. Get your boarding pass ready or fill your tank up with gas. If you keep this checklist in mind, it will be smoother sailing. Good luck with your journey!
We hope this moving checklist has been beneficial, as we know moving can be stressful whether it's across town or across the country. This moving checklist helps put moving into perspective and ensures that you can move forward with more ease. Pun intended!
There is one more thing to consider once you're all settled in.
Once you've arrived and unpacked, you'll feel organized and ready to take charge of this new chapter in your life. Woo hoo! But now that you're settled in, you may have found opportunities for home improvements. While some home improvements can be total DIY projects, others may not be so easy.
Consider home remodeling with the trusted experts at Forge & Bow Dwellings if you need a kitchen remodel, finished basement, bathroom remodel, or more. In the meantime, share this moving checklist with family and friends and help relieve some of their moving stress too.
