So, you’re finally ready to make the jump and move to a new city or state. You have some money saved up, and you’re ready for a fresh start.
But, how do you stay organized when juggling everything that goes into a long-distance move?
Long-distance moving doesn’t have to be difficult, but you need a checklist to follow. Lucky for you, that’s exactly what we’ve put together!
Keep reading for a complete list of moving tips and boxes you need to check off before you make your long-distance move.
Finalize Your Moving Date
In order to plan the rest of your move, you need a date to organize yourself around. This date can be one fixed day or it can be flexible, depending on the resources you have at your disposal.
If you’re renting your current home, you can plan around the date that your lease expires. Make sure you give your current landlord proper notice that you won’t be renewing your current lease.
Ideally, you should plan your moving date at least three months in advance.
Plan Your Moving Budget
Once you know when you’re moving, you need to determine what your budget is going to be and how much more saving you need to do, if any.
The average long-distance move costs a minimum of $2,000. However, this number can vary depending on how far you’re moving, how much your belongings weigh, and a few other factors.
You should also factor in a housing deposit, transportation for yourself and your family, and the cost of any temporary housing you may need during your move.
Gather Your Paperwork
When you’re preparing to move anywhere, you must assemble all the necessary documents. You’ll need copies of your identification, your paystubs or other proof of income, landlord references, and more; depending on what your next step is.
If you’re looking for a new home to rent, you may not need any more paperwork than that.
If you are planning on buying a home, ask your bank and mortgage lender what extra paperwork you will need to assemble.
Complete Your Home Search
Finding a new home for rent can take as little as a week, but you should still give yourself plenty of time to find a new place. The longer you have to find a place, the better a deal you may find.
Buying a new house can take anywhere from a few weeks to six months. If you’re planning on buying a home in your new destination, we recommend giving yourself as much time in advance as you can.
Once you’ve purchased your new home, make time in your plan for any renovations it may need.
Hire the Best Moving Service
Choosing a moving company can make or break your long-distance moving experience. Make sure you choose a moving company that can accommodate your specific needs.
Decide how much you want your moving service to be responsible for.
Do you need a service that will pack your home for you, or would you rather do that on your own? How quickly do you need your belongings to arrive?
When moving out of state, always get a quote from a moving company as far in advance as possible.
Explore Your New Town
If possible, you should visit your new home before you move there. You can explore the town, find some favorite spots, and start making your arrangements ahead of time.
The more you can get out of the way before you move, the better. Visiting beforehand will allow you to open new bank accounts, change your legal residency, and do anything else you want to get squared away.
Plus, you can see your new home through the eyes of a tourist; try out new restaurants, walk around, and soak in everything your new home has to offer.
Secure Your Employment
If possible, you should have a job lined up before you move to a new place. That is unless you’re planning on retiring, of course.
These days, finding a job through online recruiters is easier than ever; in part, thanks to the popularity of remote work during the Covid-19 pandemic.
If it isn’t possible for you to secure a job before you move, make sure you have at least three months of expenses saved up so that you can comfortably find one.
Plan for the Transition Period
When you move, you may not have all your belongings delivered on the same day that you arrive. Depending on your moving company’s timeline, you may want to stay in a hotel or make other accommodations for the first few nights.
Or, if you want to stay in your new home on your first night, make sure you have the bare necessities. You may need air mattresses, folding tables and chairs, pillows to sit on, and food that is easy to prepare without kitchen tools.
This transition period can be stressful, but you and your family can rest assured that your movers are taking care of the heavy lifting.
Long-Distance Moving Done Right
Long-distance moving doesn’t have to be a hassle when you have the right team on your side. Let us take care of your belongings so you can focus on everything else.
We’re here to answer any questions you may have about the long-distance moving process.
Get a quote from us today to find out what we can do to help you make your move happen!