Moving Interstate for the First Time? Top Tips for a Smooth Move
Anyone
who’s ever moved before knows that the process can be stressful. Factor in that
you’re relocating to another state and it can all be overwhelming. Moving to
another state can almost feel like you’re moving to another country. To help
reduce some of the stress that moving can create and make the transition as
smooth as possible, consider these tips.
Develop a moving plan: A few months
before you begin your move, sit down with the family and create a list of all the
things that you have to do. In addition to the obvious tasks of packing items
and hiring interstate movers,
don’t forget other important things like changing your address and contacting service
providers. A list will help ensure everything gets done prior to the move and
you won’t feel bogged down.
Make a budget: Moving to a new home
can be expensive. It can be even more expensive when you’re moving to another
state. If you’re like most, you’re on a budget and looking to spend as little
as possible. Find out how much moving to another state will cost and then look
for ways to save money wherever you can. A few ideas to help you save include using
recycled boxes and moving on a weekday instead of a weekend.
Pare down your
belongings: As
you pack your items, you’re going to come across items you no longer use or
have a desire to keep. You can cut moving costs and make the move less
physically demanding by only keeping items you absolutely want or need. Once
you determine what you’re going to bring with you, you can sell your used items
or donate them.
Pack wisely: Stay organized by
packing items from the same room together and in the same boxes. Make sure to
label each box so that when you get to your new home you know where the boxes
go. Use bubble wrap or padding for delicate items so they don’t get damaged
during transport. Disassemble large items like tables or desks prior to moving
day.
Hire a moving company: While you could
move everything yourself, the benefits of hiring a moving company outweigh the
do-it-yourself method. Moving company staff members are experienced in moving
items promptly and with care and will ensure everything arrives safely at your
new home.
Make sure your new
home is move-in ready: You don’t want to move into your new home only to have no
cable or electric. Speak to the utility companies and service providers in
advance to transfer your utilities and services to your new home.
