How to Take the Stress Out of Moving out of State

Moving can be a dreaded process. There’s the overwhelm of getting ready to move, packing, and then travelling, and then unpacking! It’s hard enough moving within the same town, but a larger move, such as out of state can feel stressful. How can you reduce the stress and make the transition as easy as possible? The best thing to do when facing a move is to have a plan. With this simple checklist you’ll find moving is a breeze.

2 Months Before

Two months before you’re set to move you should kick the planning process into gear. This is the time to do your research and start the ball rolling.

1. Timing is everything – While we don’t always have a choice as to when we move, if you can avoid the expensive time during summer that would be more cost-effective. Take the time to research the best time to move.
2. Find your movers – If you plan to utilize a moving company, now is the time to research a moving company that is experienced with the type of move that you need.
3. Get your flights – Purchase your flights for your family and pets if you are choosing to fly. Advance tickets are generally cheaper and will provide you peace of mind knowing you’re set.
4. Reduce your clutter – Time to remove the things that don’t ‘bring you joy.’ Sell or donate anything that you can no longer use. If you’re selling your home, your buyers may love to have some of the items. As they say, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!”
5. Set your kids up with school – If you have school-aged children now is the time to look into the schools that they will be attending and make sure they are enrolled.
6. Stock up on packing supplies – Time to start saving those Amazon boxes! Any box that you used to throw in recycling is now a treasure! Collect those boxes, and if you need more you can buy them at supply stores or free from your local grocers.

1 Month to 2 Weeks before

One month or less to go! You’re well on your way to a stress-free move! Look at you go, you planner you!

1. Pack Away– Don’t procrastinate! Start packing ASAP. This will help you soooo much, and not make you frazzled at the finish line. Also, this is a great time to take inventory of your items. This will be helpful for insurance reasons. Tip: Don’t forget to label boxes with the room they go in for easier unpacking.
2. Obtain Medical Records – Take the time to obtain your family medical records and pack them away. Don’t forget the furry family member’s vet records as well!
3. Forward Your Mail – Use the USPS change of address form to update your mailing address. Set it to activate beginning the date you move out. Don’t forget to take advantage of those special offers USPS gives you too! You will get coupons for various items you might need for the new place.
4. Transfer/Change your Utilities – Set your utilities to stop on the date you move and activate utilities at your new place.
5. Notify your Bank – Update your bank and creditors of your new address.
6. Notify insurance providers – You may need to update or change your home and car insurance depending on the rules of your new state.
7. Pack your essential items – Get your personal travel bags ready.
8. Contact your moving company – Make sure they are booked and payment is worked out.

The Big Day

Look at you! You did it! It’s time to move.

1. Do a final walkthrough – Make sure there’s nothing left behind, and everything looks good.
2. Drop the Keys – Make sure your real estate agent, or landlord has your keys and garage door openers.

Taking the time to plan your move will help you take the stress out of this big life change. If you have any other questions, we would be happy to help!