Interstate moves aren’t uncommon in the US, especially when it comes to looking for more affordable living and better work opportunities. Florida and Texas are among the 2 most popular states for interstate relocation.
More than 412,000 Texans relocated to different states, including Tennessee, Arizona, Florida, and Colorado, over the last few months, including people from metropolitan cities like Houston. Despite being one of the most popular cities in the US in terms of living potential, Houston offers limited employment opportunities. You’re fine if you’re a healthcare worker or employed in the oil and gas sector. But mineral extraction has damaged the groundwater, contributing to unsustainable living in the long run.
Moving out of state can be a daunting experience, but you can make the process more straightforward by following a few simple tips. Here’s what you need to know:
Know where you are moving
This first one is a no-brainer. Before moving to a new state, research what it has to offer. Each state has a different culture and climate, making it imperative to know whether you and your loved ones will fit in with the dynamics of the location or not.
There are many areas to cover here, ranging from the job market to housing, schooling, laws, weather, and everything in between. You should not only utilize all the resources available for this task, but also visit your state of choice at least once before making the big decision to move there.
Choose the right movers
How will you take all your belongings with you? Moving out of state is different from traveling, where you only have to worry about a few pieces of luggage. Instead, it is a mammoth task for which you’ll need professional help.
With more than 400,000 people moving out of Texas, you’re bound to find several long distance moving companies in Houston and other major cities in the state that can help you with a seamless relocation. Find out what your moving requirements are. Which items do you wish to take along, and what would you rather repurchase when you arrive in your new town? Once you know this, choose a moving company that can help you transport your belongings.
Curate a budget
While moving out of state may be an exciting fresh start for you, it comes with expenses, which is why you must create a budget that clearly states how much you will spend on each aspect of the moving process.
Hiring movers and paying for a new residence may be your major costs. Still, many minor costs, such as setting up new utilities, travel fares depending on your chosen mode of travel, and meals for the first few days before your kitchen is set up, will slowly add up to a large sum. Therefore, use a moving cost calculator to get a ballpark number of how much you will be spending.
Collect all relevant documentation
A rather boring yet significant part of the moving process is having all paperwork and documents handy. Shifting to a new state will require you to keep all relevant documentation in one place, such as a bill of lading provided by your movers, real estate papers, and emergency contact numbers. You will also need to file paperwork related to updating your billing address, driver’s license, and voting registration, subject to the state you choose to move to and its laws.
Remember to make soft copies of these documents as a backup in case you misplace the hard copies during your move.
Decide on a moving date
Knowing the exact moving date is important in ensuring you stay on track and everything goes smoothly. Keep the moving company’s schedule, family concerns, and the weather in mind.
Despite most Americans choosing to move between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which is the peak moving season, it is inadvisable to do so because of the increased demand and lesser availability of movers, hotels, and flights. Therefore, the best time of the year to move is during the off-season, which is mid-September through April.
Arrange packing supplies
As the movers take care of the bulky furniture and hefty appliances, you will be left responsible for packing the everyday items and essentials. Before the packing process commences, having the right supplies on hand will save you time and energy.
Always purchase high-quality supplies, particularly boxes and tapes, to decrease the risk of loose and flimsy packaging that may dismantle during the move. Plastic bags and stuffing paper help fill any gaps between items. Use bubble wrap and furniture covers to protect items with specific packaging needs, such as glass cookware or decoration pieces.
Pack strategically
Strategic packing requires attention and efficiency. Always pack the non-essentials first, store them at the bottom, and end with the essentialsplaced at the top. Place the heavy items within each box at the bottom to build a strong base, and add the lighter items at the top.
Once the boxes are packed, labeling them is essential. It is almost impossible for you to remember what is contained within every single box.
Arrange utilities at your new place
These include but are not limited to electricity, water and gas supply, sewerage lines, and internet connection. Ensuring these utilities are operational requires prior notice to the utility providers in the state you are moving to, which is why it is important to notify relevant companies beforehand.
If you have your new address, schedule installation dates timely. You will also need to notify the utility providers of your current address to cut off the supply right before you move to prevent unnecessary utility bills and safety hazards.
Spread the word about your move
Last but certainly not least is letting people know that you are moving. By spreading the word about your relocation plans, you will increase your chances of building useful connections and networking in your new state before moving there. People may also give you valuable moving advice or some additional tips to keep in mind that may help you in the most unexpected ways.
Conclusion
If you and your family have recently decided to move States, know that this is an amazing opportunity to start fresh and experience a new way of life. With proper planning and adhering to the right tips, moving to a new state can be an easy and smooth process leading to growth and new beginnings!