Cross-country moving is one of the most stressful events a family can go through. From budgeting for higher living costs to leaving beloved friends behind, an out-of-state move presents a mountain of logistics to climb. But with careful planning and a positive mindset, you can make it to your new home without losing your sanity. Here’s a checklist for moving out of state.
Budget for All Moving Expenses
Before anything else, when moving cross-country or moving out of state, calculate all anticipated moving costs so there are no financial surprises. In addition to the actual expenses of hiring professional movers or renting a truck, calculate essentials like deposits for utility transfers and new housings costs, temporary housing if your move-in dates don’t sync perfectly, and travel costs for your long-distance move.
We suggest researching the difference in cost of living between your current city and your new one. AreaVibes offers a handy cost of living calculator that lets you compare cities side-by-side.
Replacement valuation protection is another wise investment for peace of mind. Quality moving companies like ours offer affordable full valuation coverage to repair or replace any belongings damaged in transit.
Get to Know Your New Community
Don’t be a stranger in a strange land when moving across state lines. Before arriving, join neighborhood Facebook groups and explore your new city’s official visitor resources online. See if there are any community calendars listing local events to attend.
If possible, scout out the area through an in-person visit beforehand. Scope out neighborhoods, schools for your kids, grocery stores, shopping centers, parks and recreation options, religious centers, and anything else essential for your family’s needs.
Purge Belongings Before You Pack
Moving nonessential belongings is a waste of money and effort in a long-distance move. Host a garage sale or list gently used items on Craigslist, OfferUp, or Facebook Marketplace. Anything not worth shipping for your move out of state can be donated or responsibly discarded.
Perfect Your Packing Strategy
Amateur packing is the fast-track to damaged goods and household chaos. Pack properly by using durable plastic crates instead of flimsy cardboard boxes, wrapping all fragile items in bubble wrap, paper, or cloth material, and clearly labeling boxes by room and contents.
Remember, important documents like passports, birth certificates, and financial records should be kept with you, not packed.
Also, if you really want to perfect your packing plans, reach out to us to learn more about our packing services that include all of the materials and manpower you’ll need for your big moving day!
Set Up Utilities & Auto Transport Early
About two months before your cross country move, contact utilities like electric, gas, cable, and internet to schedule start/stop dates. This will help you best plan out your budget and avoid overpaying on your old home’s utilities.
Also, that is the time to give the postal service an advance change of address and obtain quotes from auto transport companies if you need vehicles shipped
Accommodate Fur Babies
Dogs and cats need special considerations when traveling long distances. When driving, keep their favorite toys, snacks, and bedding on hand to soothe anxiety. Bring adequate food/water and plan potty breaks every few hours.
For air travel, check breed restrictions and pet policies with airlines. Example costs for dogs/cats under 20 lbs (including carrier) on a one-way domestic flight are $150 with American Airlines, $125 for Southwest and United Airlines
Most airlines prohibit opening carriers once inside the cabin. Large dog owners should seriously consider hiring a pet transport service or making a good old-fashioned road trip.
Farewell Friends & Colleagues
An out-of-state move inevitably means leaving behind familiar faces and places. Don’t let those cherished connections just fade away. Set aside time for proper goodbyes with your inner circle before departing.
Host a going away party or small gatherings with different friend groups. Let your kids’ buddies have a playdate one last time. Thank any colleagues, neighbors, teachers, or community members who positively impacted your life.
Provide your new residential address to anyone who may need to reach you, from doctors and accountants to subscriptions services. The last thing you want is for bills, records, or magazines getting rerouted who knows where.
File an official Change of Address with the United States Postal Service at least two weeks before your move-out date. This ensures any stragglers like residual mail and packages are properly forwarded to your new home. You can submit an application online, over the phone, or visit your local post office in person.
Moving Across Country with Element Movers
Element Moving & Storage has provided luxurious, stress-free moving services in Dallas, Texas, for decades. Specializing in cross-country moves, we handle every aspect of your long-distance move so you don’t have to sweat the details.
From full-service packing and custom crating to secure door-to-door transportation, our professional teams ensure your belongings are treated like precious family heirlooms.
Trust the out-of-state moving experts at Element to minimize headaches and maximize peace of mind during your life’s next chapter. Contact us to schedule your next move today!
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