The ultimate week by week checklist for out-of-state relocations

Moving across the states can be a hassle, especially if you don’t have a proper strategy in place. Planning a cross-country move is all about staying organized and performing the necessary actions in time so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Among the best cross country moving steps that we can give you is considering the help of companies that offer long-distance moving services. Such companies, like LIfeStyle Moving & Storage In New York, can cater their services to your individual needs and give you additional guidance even on the things we didn’t cover in this blog post.

So, what are the steps to moving out of state? Let’s take a look. We’ll go ahead and discuss the necessary steps categorized in predetermined periods so you can get everything done at the right time.

Cross country moving tips: Eight weeks before moving

• As you still have quite a lot of time on your hands, take it easy during this period and explore your new neighborhood. Take a look at a few digital maps, satellite images, interactive map apps, and so on. Also, it’s a great idea to explore nearby schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Simply put, get as familiar with your new town or city as much as you can.
• Also, assess everything you should do and choose whether you’d like to hire a professional moving company or do it yourself. Naturally, we highly recommend you do the first, as it takes the lion’s share of the work out of the equation. At least, as far packing and transport go.
• Next up on your moving out of state checklist, divide whether you want to fly and have your items shipped. If your answer is yes, make sure to book the flight in time to save on the tickets.
• If your cross-country move is a DIY project, ensure you get the necessary supplies and items you’ll need. Bubble wrap, packing tape, floor mats, newspapers, dollies, etc.
• An important yet sometimes overlooked step to moving out of state is taking your car in for a checkup. You don’t want to deal with tire or engine problems during a several hundred-mile trip with half of your life (almost literally) in the trunk and on a trailer.
• No matter which moving route you take, create a moving budget. Food, lodging, gas expenses – everything should be included, even mover’s tips.
• Request time off from your job for the big event and let your managers and supervisors know what will happen.
• Give notice to your landlord if you rent a house or an apartment. Make sure to check with them, so you know how far in advance you will need to leave the notice before the end of the lease.
• If necessary, make a last doctor and dentist appointment for everyone in the family and research new potential physicians. If you find the ones that fit your needs, transfer your records.

Six weeks out: Steps to moving out of state

• Now would be a good time to slowly stock up on moving boxes. You can always ask your family and friends whether they have something lying around. Or, you can always visit your nearest department store or grocery store.
• Create a moving checklist with all of your stuff and take photos of them. This way, you’ll have an easier time keeping track of your every item. It can also help with grouping similar items together, which can come in handy during packing.
• Don’t forget to declutter before moving out. Six weeks before the big event, take a thorough look at your heavy furniture and other items. These will usually cost the most when hauling your things cross country. If your furniture is worn out and old, consider selling or donating them – especially when you can quickly get a replacement at your new place.
• Hold a garage sale to sell or donate the rest of the things you’re sure you won’t be needing.
• After getting rid of all unnecessary items, start packing the things you want to take with you but can do without for the rest of the remaining few weeks.
• When planning a cross-country move, make sure to give your friends notice ahead of time.
• Another thing you can include in your moving out of state checklist during this time is notifying organizations of your address change. If you have monthly magazine subscriptions or pay for monthly amenities, let them know about the move as well.
• Don’t forget to notify the utility companies as well. The cable, gas, and electric firms should all be informed about when you’re leaving your old address. Also, make sure with them that everything will be running in good shape on your new address as well.
• Schedule a few off days to visit your family and friends nearby to say goodbye.

Cross country moving tips: Four weeks before moving

• Cancel any memberships you won’t use anymore and pay any fines you may have. Also, make sure that you update your voter registration. This is also a great time to change your car insurance address.
• Use up those items from the freezer that perish quickly and focus on making pantry item meals.
• Make sure to book a room or two if you will be pulling off a cross-country drive.
• Gather all your vital documents in one place. Passports, birth certificates, medical records, and the like should all be organized in an easy access folder.

Planning a cross country move: Two weeks out

Now, you’re getting close to the big day. As such, it’s necessary to:

• Update your information with your new address: banking info, cell phone provider, etc.
• Check everything regarding the renter’s insurance and deductible moving expenses.
• Notify government offices about your new address.
• If you’ve hired a moving company, call them to confirm the details of the move.

One week before the big event

• Transfer your prescriptions (if you have any) to a pharmacy near your new address.
• Double-check with the utility companies and government institutions regarding your move.
• Defrost and clean out your refrigerator and freezer.
• Clean your microwave, oven, sink, toilet, and the rest of the appliances the night before moving.
• Make sure you have cash on you, to tip the movers and for the road.

On moving day

• Make sure that the movers can easily access and take all the boxes out of the home and your yard.
• Protect the floors if necessary and ensure you have everything you need for your cross-country move, especially if you are driving. Things like cash, food, first aid kits, clothes, and more.
• Do a final walkthrough of your old place. Note every possible damage and let your landlord know about them.
• Lastly, reminisce about the old days of living there and look forward to your life’s latest chapter.

Moving made easy

As you can see, with the right approach, moving can be less stressful. Still, things can get overwhelming and confusing even for those who have moved a couple of times over the years.

With the help of a professional moving company, you can take the load off a bit and focus more on the things that will await you at your new place.

That being said, if you are currently planning to move, feel free to reach out to us. We’ll be glad to help with anything we can. You can fill out our online form if you want to know more details about moving and relocation.