Any type of move is stressful, especially when crossing state lines. In fact, 45% of people say moving is the most stressful event in life. This adds additional problems to an already troublesome time.
However, there are plenty of actions that can be taken to reduce this stress. Today, we’re looking at a few tips that can make moving to another state a lot easier.
- Find the Perfect Location
Moving to another state is similar to moving anywhere. Like any move, it starts with finding the right location.
Make sure to research relevant pieces of information about where you are going. Find out what your commute will be like, what the taxes are, how the schools perform, if there are enough shops and restaurants for you, and anything else you need to know.
Being aware of all of this can help you make your decision. It can also help you avoid having a troublesome time after your move.
- Know the Local Differences
In any residential move, you should be aware of the area. When moving to a different state, this becomes even more important. Different states often have their own personality, unique qualities, and even cultural traditions that may not be present elsewhere.
One of the best ways to find out about these differences is to simply ask the locals. If you visit the area, ask those you interact with about their experiences. You can also look for groups of locals on social media.
If you are using a realtor, they can be a great source of information. They will have plenty of experience in the area and will be able to offer up their knowledge.
- Learn the Local Laws
Different states have different laws. It is important to be aware of these laws so that you can avoid stress and legal consequences, and sometimes, embarrassment.
For example, in some states, you cannot pump your own gas and some localities have restrictions on collecting rainwater.
- Prepare Your Budget
In almost every case, moving is a costly venture. It involves numerous new expenditures within a rather short time period. Having a budget can prevent you from spending money that you should be saving.
When preparing your budget, make sure to consider all the angles. This includes the cost of packing materials, the cost of movers, any vehicle rental costs, and anything else applicable to your specific situation.
In addition, consider the changes that moving to a new area will bring. The cost of living varies from state to state in a way that can have a huge impact. Make sure that your new salary will be able to cover your expenses going forward.
- Making Arrangements for Moving Your Possessions
Knowing the area will help when you start your new life in your new home. However, you also need to prepare for the move itself. Primarily, this involves preparing to move your possessions from one home to the next.
If you are moving your belongings yourself, make sure you have enough space to move them. When renting a truck, it is better to get one that is too big rather than one that is too small. Doing so will save headaches on moving day.
If you are hiring a moving company, make sure to pick a reliable one. Do research beforehand in order to make the best choice.
Compare your options based on price and reputation. Then, pick the best option that works within your budget.
- Make Arrangements for Moving Your Car
In either case, you may end up needing to move your car. This is especially the case if you are moving your own things, as you won’t be able to drive the moving truck and your car at once.
If proper precautions aren’t taken, this can be a huge problem. It could force you to run back and forth from your old state to your new state multiple times.
If planned for, one can avoid this problem entirely. Make sure to have a look and research companies that will move your car for you. They can make the process a breeze.
- Prepare for Moving Day
In the days leading up to the moving process, it is important to start preparations. This can help ensure that your move will go smoothly.
One thing to do is to begin packing your belongings. Try to put similar belongings in boxes together. Oftentimes, sorting by the room in which things are located works best.
While doing this, make sure fragile objects are well protected. Wrap breakables in bubble wrap or another soft material. Then, make sure the box they are placed in is marked “Fragile”.
In addition, consider picking up bottles of water and something to eat for the day of the move. If you’re moving your own stuff, you might not have time to get anything on the day. If you’re hiring movers, they’ll appreciate it when you offer them something.
- Remember What to Do on Moving Day
On moving day, there are a few moving tips to make things easier. These can make sure your move is efficient and safe.
Be aware of where you are moving. Piling everything in the front room of your new house is easy at first but will be a headache to move around afterward. Try to place boxes and furniture wherever you want them to end up.
Stay safe. If you are moving things yourself, make sure not to strain yourself too hard. In addition, keep the walkways clear, so that you and everyone else will not trip over anything while carrying heavy materials.
- Transfer Any Government Documents
A household move will often involve updating government documents. One of the most important of these is your driver’s license. Your driver’s license will need to be changed to match your new state’s.
Mail forwarding can be just as important. This allows letters sent to your old residence to be sent to your new one.
In addition, you’ll want to update any other documents you have. Passports, selective service, voting registration, and more may need to be changed.
Make Moving to Another State Easy
When planning a move, it is important to consider and remember these helpful tips. They can prevent moving to another state from becoming one of the most stressful periods in your life.
If these tips were helpful to you, check out our other articles too.
