If you’re preparing to move another state, you have a lot to plan. From packing your possessions to finding a way to move on a budget, moving to a new state isn’t easy. To ensure a smooth move, follow this checklist.
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Visit your new state and city
Before you move to another state, it’s a good idea to make at least one trip to your new city first. You can get a feel for the area and the different neighborhoods. Take a guide book with you, or to the local visitor’s center to get brochures, maps, and recommendations. If you stay in a hotel, you could ask the concierge for suggestions. You should be able to find lots of information on your new city through internet research too.
Budget
Moving to a new state won’t be cheap. Even if you’re planning to do a DIY move, you will have to pay to rent a truck, buy moving supplies, and other expenses. To work out your budget, start with how much you are able and willing to spend on moving. List out all the moving expenses. Put some extra cash aside for unexpected expenses. If you’re moving for a job, find out whether or not your employer will help to cover some or all of your moving expenses.
Find somewhere to live
Ideally, you should find somewhere to live before you move. Unless you know the area well, it can be smart to rent for six months while you get a feel of the city and where you might like to live. To find the right place to live, hire a realtor to show you homes. A knowledgeable realtor will help you, as they know the market and can help with legalities and paperwork.
Research moving companies
If you do decide a moving company to help you with your move, make sure you hire a reliable and trustworthy one, like Allied Van Lines. When you’re researching moving companies, look at company reviews and ratings on review websites. Look for a directory with customer reviews, their Better Business Bureau rating, any official complaints filed against the company with the FMCSA, and whether the company has any association with the American Moving and Storage Association. It’s wise to contact at least three or four different companies to get a quote. A mover should carry out an in-person inspection or a video survey of your belongings before they give you a quote. If the mover will give you a quote over the internet without looking at how much you have to move, or gives you a quote that seems too good to be true, this should be a red flag. There are red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.
The right relocation company should be licensed and insured, so you can feel secure that your move is in safe hands.
An out-of-state move can be tough, but with proper planning and the right people to help you, you can make it all go smoothly.
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