Things to Do Before Moving Out of State

Things to do Before Moving Out of State, It can be an exciting adventure, but also a major undertaking. Careful planning and preparation are key for a smooth transition. There are many important tasks that should be completed well in advance of your moving day. This comprehensive checklist will help ensure you don’t overlook any critical steps when relocating out of state.

Notify Important Parties About Your Move

One of the first things you should do when moving is to notify all the important parties that need to know about your address change. That way, you can take care of closing or transferring accounts, and avoid any lapses in billing, documents, and other important correspondences.

First, inform your employer about your relocation if you plan to continue working for the same company. Provide them with details about your move timeline and new contact information.

Next, notify your bank and credit card companies. You may want to close local bank accounts and open new ones nearer your new home. Provide updated contact details for all credit cards, loans, and other financial accounts.

Also inform relevant government departments, such as the tax authorities, social security administration, and motor vehicle department. File a change of address form with the US Postal Service to forward your mail.

Additionally, contact utility companies like phone, internet, electricity, and gas providers to close accounts at your old address. Schedule service installation and activation at your new home ahead of move-in day.

Transfer Medical, Insurance, and Legal Records

When relocating states, you must take steps to transfer important records and registrations.

First, ask your current healthcare providers for referrals and transfer prescriptions, medical records, and files to new doctors and dentists near your new home. Also, update your health insurance policy with your new address.

Next, vehicle registration, driver’s license, and auto insurance policies will need to be transferred to your new state. Contact the DMV and your insurer to find out exactly what paperwork needs to be completed.

Also, update or obtain new home, life, pet, or other insurance policies to provide coverage in your new location. Review policies with your agent and make any necessary adjustments.

Finally, if relevant, transfer legal documents like your will, powers of attorney, trusts, or deeds to a law firm in your new city or state. You want these important documents to be valid under the laws of your new home state.

Read: Why Insurance is Crucial for International Shipment

Tie Up Loose Ends at Your Current Location

As moving day gets closer, make sure you tie up all the loose ends regarding your current home, neighborhood, city, and overall life.

Provide your landlord with appropriate notice and terminate your rental agreement if you are currently renting. Or complete the sale of your home if you own it. Also cancel any local memberships, subscriptions, or regular services.

Say goodbye to neighbors and friends. Host going away parties or gatherings to celebrate memories from your old home. Also, donate, sell, or discard any furniture, clothes, or belongings that you don’t need – decluttering before a big move is key.

Finally, take your pets for one last visit to the vet. Obtain copies of their medical records and proof of vaccinations to provide to new vets. Have an ID microchip implanted so pets can be identified if they get lost during the move.

Schedule Moving Logistics

With about 6-8 weeks until moving day, it’s time to schedule the logistics for your actual relocation.

Start by researching and choosing the best moving company that provides door-to-door shipping services. Depending on how much stuff you are moving, you may need to choose between hiring movers or renting and driving a moving truck yourself. Obtain estimates from multiple companies.

Once you’ve booked movers or your truck rental, it’s time to start packing. Gradually pack up each room, labeling boxes clearly. Separate valuable items and essentials you’ll need right away to carry with you.

Also, make travel arrangements for your long-distance move. Book flights or hotel rooms if needed. Have your vehicles serviced if you plan to drive. Make sure your new home will be ready for move-in upon arrival.

Lastly, set up any help you’ll need unpacking on the other end. Hire cleaners to have your new home ready or recruit friends to lend a hand. Having helpers lined up will make the move-in day much smoother.

Adjust to Your New Surroundings

Give yourself time to take care of last-minute errands and fully adjust when you first arrive. Obtain a new driver’s license and auto registration. Transfer bank accounts and remaining services. Unpack slowly and get settled. Drive around to orient yourself in the new community.

Make an effort to meet neighbors, find your local grocery store and amenities, and scope out things to do. Look into joining local organizations or clubs to meet new people.

Finally, update your mailing address anytime you receive mail forwarded from your old address. Update contacts, social media profiles, and any remaining accounts. With some time, your new house will truly start to feel like home.

Relocating out of state requires extensive preparation, planning, and research. Give yourself plenty of time to work through this comprehensive checklist. Careful attention to all these details will ensure your interstate move goes smoothly, allowing you to embrace the adventure and excitement of your new home.