How to Make an Interstate Move: 8 Key Things to Know

According to the United States Census Bureau, around 27.1 million Americans went through an interstate move last year. This is no surprise because people always want a change of scenery to feel refreshed. However, a move to another state requires careful planning.

You need to figure out everything from shifting your belongings to notifying utility companies about your new address. Moving to a different state involves numerous details that are easy to overlook when you are under pressure.

Here is the ultimate guide to help you plan an interstate move to ensure that everything goes smoothly for the most stress-free experience.

Determine Where to Move

The biggest challenge of an interstate move is knowing where you want to live for the next few years. This can be difficult because you cannot jump off the couch to run out and view houses.

Apartment hunting becomes a hurdle because your new home will not be a few blocks away to inspect. If you decide to move to Sioux Falls for its affordable housing and friendly tax climate, you should consult with our team of real estate experts.

It is always best to work with a skilled agent familiar with the area. Then you can rest assured knowing that you are headed in the right direction. Start your property search early because you will need plenty of time to compare options and do all your research.

There are also rental scams you should be watchful of because people who are moving to a different state become easy targets for scammers.

This is because you are more likely to set aside funds in advance before seeing your future home. Therefore, working with an expert real estate company is key to guaranteeing the best home for your family.

Set an Interstate Move Budget

A move to another state can quickly become one of the most expensive investments if you are not careful. This is because you have to pack up all your belongings and everything your loved ones own to start living in a different state.

It is crucial to set your cost expectations ahead of your move. This will help you avoid any unwelcome surprises. Some of the things that you will need to budget for as travel fees, packing supplies, packing services, insurance, and storage fees.

It is also important to note that the more things you have, the more expensive moving to a different state will be. Whether you drive yourself to the new address or use a professional moving service, it is always best to be prepared in advance to cut down on expenses.

Transport Logistics

Depending on your moving budget, you can transport all your things at once or may need to make multiple trips. The latter may not be possible for those who want to move far away and cannot afford to drive back and forth.

Therefore, you should always plan to set aside a few thousand dollars to hire professional movers. They can efficiently help truck all your belongings to relocate them in the shortest time. Alternatively, you can also look at moving containers that allow you to pack and ship all your things for a reasonable price.

Packing Plan

Unless you are Monica Geller from the hit TV show Friends, packing is never easy. You should always have a packing plan because it will be too expensive to go back and forth to get all your things together at the last minute.

Always ensure that you are packed up and ready to hit the road on moving day. Everything you do not want to bring should be donated, sold, or tossed before the movers pick up your belongings.

Packing Supplies

To save money on expenses, you should gather the right packing supplies to avoid buying things you do not need. The first things you should prioritize are packing paper, boxes, and tape.

Start small and buy more if you need to use them. You should also pack an essentials bag with things you will need to access immediately after your move. These should travel with you instead of on the truck.

Your essentials bag should have medications, toiletries, chargers, documents, and extra clothes. Your pets and children should have their own essentials bag as well to ensure a smooth unpacking experience when you arrive at the new address.

Set up Utilities

An interstate move requires you to cancel existing utilities to set up new ones. This should always be done before moving day. Utility providers are area specific.

This means that your gas, water, and the electric provider may not operate in the state you are relocating to. Conduct basic research to see which companies you should sign up with. It always helps to speak to your real estate agent for some tips about these services.

Notify Post Office

You must always set up your new address with the United States Post Office. If you do this before moving interstate, you can successfully get your mail forwarded from day one.

Then you must also let your credit card company and bank know about your move. Anyone with whom you have automatic payments should be informed that you are relocating.

Update Vehicle Registration

Some states may give you two months to update your vehicle's registration and driver's license. However, others may require you to do it much sooner.

Therefore, you should always know what to expect after moving to another state. This way, you can always get your paperwork filed to officially become a resident of your new state.

Move Interstate With Ease

Now that you know the 8 essential tips for an interstate move, it is time to start your research process. Getting this step done in advance will save you a lot of time and money.

Contact us today, and we can help you find your new family home in the best area in no time. Then you can focus on packing and transporting your loved ones while we get your home ready for your arrival.