An out of state move is stressful enough without adding all the logistics and packing into the mix. It can also be stressful knowing you are moving away from places you are familiar with, beloved family and friends, co-workers and a steady job. Plus, moving out of state poses many different challenges and requirements in terms of registration, insurance and more. 
But whether you are moving long-distance due to a family move of your own free will, or due to a work relocation, the truth is, you will need some help. Long-distance moves pose more complexities and challenges than local ones do, simply because of the amount of miles involved. It’s more challenging to keep your belongings safe and intact, and it’s more challenging to time everything just right so that the trucks arrive when you do! Here are some tips to prep for your out of state or long-distance move.
Start as Soon as Possible
Moves always take longer than you think. Even small local ones. So do yourself a favor and start planning for this move as far in advance as you can. When you give yourself plenty of time, you can rest easy knowing you won’t be rushed at the end. Slowly chip away at the tasks you have to do, taking baby steps to ensure your sanity. No timeline is perfect, and there will likely be snafus and delays along the way, but getting the bulk of the planning done beforehand will help immensely. About six weeks out, you should be:- Organizing all of the documents and papers you’ll require for your move. Keep them all in one place, either in a file on your computer or in a labeled folder. These documents should include a moving timeline and checklist, quotes from at least three movers, travel plan information, receipts for supplies, and confirmation on scheduled services.
- Researching new neighborhoods and drilling down into where you may want to live. Think about your budget, what you’re looking for in a neighborhood, and proximity to schools and jobs. Will you be buying a new home right away or would a short-term rental be better in the interim?
- Securing storage if there will be a gap between when you move out and when you move in.
- Researching new dentists, doctors, mechanics, schools, etc.
- Buying plane tickets if you plan to fly to your new destination. Are you going to sell your car, drive it, or have it transported?
Choose a Moving Method
Next, it’s time to think about how you will handle the move itself. Do you want to hire full-service movers to handle every little detail right down to the packing? Or do you want a combination of a DIY and a professional move, whereby you hire movers for labor only? The answer will depend on your personal preferences, the amount and type of stuff you have, and your budget. Whatever the case, call at least three movers now and get estimates. Book the movers as soon as you can, as they tend to fill up quickly, especially at this time of year.