It might feel like an overwhelming project to pack up your home and move to a new state. Knowing where to start and how to get all the tiny details organized can challenge even the calmest and most collected people.
People who complete seamless interstate moves have three things in common – they start planning early, anticipate the worst-case scenario and hire the right professional help. Here are some tips you can use to arrange your move to a new state.
1. Thoroughly Research the Area
If you’re moving somewhere you’ve never lived before, you owe it to yourself to learn everything you can about your new state and city before you call it home. What is the cost of living? Where are the safest neighborhoods? Are there good public schools? Does the city have plenty of green space? What’s the weather like? Answers to questions like these will help you evaluate the quality of life you might anticipate.
2. Learn How to Get Around Town
Unless you intend to work from home, you’ll want to learn about average daily commute times to know what to expect on your drives to and from your job. It will also help to find out any traffic issues and ease of access to interstate highways and other major arteries through the city.
To determine walkability, access to public transit and proximity to amenities, you can use the tools available at walkscore.com. Ideally, you’d have time for an in-person visit to the area, but if not, take a virtual tour with Google Street View.
3. Set Aside Emergency Funds
Even if you’ve thought through every detail in preparation for your move to a new state, budgeting can be the trickiest part of planning a long-distance relocation. Unforeseen events such as a road closure or inclement weather can derail your carefully made plans and force you to spend a night or two in a hotel. Surprise expenses can pop up anytime, so be sure to have emergency money available.
4. Hire Reputable Movers
While you might assume you can save money by organizing a DIY move to a new state, you’ll likely find yourself in over your head if you’ve never taken on a project of this magnitude before. Professional movers can provide invaluable support and guidance, but don’t assume all interstate moving companies are the same.
Start by requesting multiple quotes, so you can compare prices. Read every quote carefully to understand what the mover is responsible for handling and when they will deliver your belongings to your new home. Check licenses, insurance and customer testimonials. After choosing the most reputable mover with a quote that fits your budget, make sure they’re aware of high-value belongings like artwork, heirlooms, antiques and pianos so they can plan accordingly.
5. Start Packing
It’s never too early to start packing for your long-distance move. That way, you can gain an understanding of how long your project might take and how much help you’ll need along the way. Hiring a mover that offers packing services can save you time and money.
Trust Chattanooga’s Best Moving Company With Your Move to a New State
Moving out of state is a challenge you don’t have to tackle alone. Whatever you need for your interstate relocation, Fox Moving and Storage is here for you. As a full-service company, we have experience with complex projects, and we can be available 24/7 with only an hour’s notice. Contact us today to learn more and request a complimentary quote.