Let’s face it, even the highest-energy person doesn’t relish the thought of moving to a new state. She might be excited about a new life and new opportunities, but the packing and preparation process can be a drain on anyone’s reserves of energy.

Are You Planning On Moving To A New State

You need to plan accordingly to make sure you get through this stage with your psyche intact. The short tips to follow will help you get everything about moving in order, so you can check them off your list as you go along.

First: Make A List Of Things To Do And Budget

To increase your peace of mind during the impending moving process, and to facilitate everything involved, make a calendar or checklist. With the wide assortment of web-enabled mobile apps just for this purpose, this is easier than ever before – and ensures that your list won’t get lost, and will always be within arms’ reach. Whenever you think of something that must get done, just whip out your Smartphone and add it to the list.

Just as importantly, keeping such an easily-accessible account of everything allows you to budget easily enough. In fact, there’s certain to be apps for this on Android or in the Apple Store – so look around. Your moving out-of-state budget need not be an estimate, given the reputable moving services in your city/state.

Hire A Seasoned And Trustworthy Out of State Moving Service

Although it can be tempting to conduct a complete do-it-yourself move out of state; the fact is, a moving company is considerably more cost-effective. You can give it a go for in-state moves, but once you start crossing state lines, the cost-benefit analysis of a self-move swings towards the cost axis. It’s best to use a multi-pronged attack when searching for a company; consult neighbors and colleagues; then, read online reviews from highly-regarded review sites like Google, Facebook, and YELP.

Once you have your movers, be sure to grill them with any questions you have about the terms of service and insurance. Since they must comply with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), they should have:

  • current registration
  • a protective suite that includes worker’s comp, motor vehicle and liability insurance to cover accidents
  • a US Department of Transportation number that allows federal tracking of timely truck inspections and customer reviews of the company’s continued competence
All of the above will almost certainly be listed on their website or in any documents they give you – but double-check to be sure.

Start Separating And Then Packing

Before they’re scheduled to move your stuff, you need to decide what you want to take and what you want to leave (throw away, essentially). Paring down your belongings is the one big job you’ll have to do; don’t forget to separate a few emergency bags for the things you’ll need right away so that you don’t have to wait the weeks or months it takes you to unpack the last box once the actual move is completed.

Address Changes And Utilities

The last things to do, generally, are to obtain a change of address, cancel any outstanding subscriptions (or transfer them), and make sure your utilities will be cut off shortly after you leave. It is not at all unheard of for squatters to move into a temporarily vacant home and keep the lights on. Just as importantly, make sure that these things are turned on in your new home shortly before you arrive.

Moving is an inherently stressful event; moving to a new state is even more stressful. Make it less so by following the above suggestions; which starts with acquiring the services of a reputable moving company.