Since I made the decision to move out of state over half a decade ago, I’ve moved across the country two other times. Because of these moves, I am an expert at knowing and preparing to move out of state.
I’ve learned not to leave everything to the last minute, and each move I’ve only gotten more organized.
While I don’t plan on moving out of state any time soon, I have so many tips and tricks to share with you for your next move!
Is it worth it to move out of state?
Yes! At least for me. Of course, if you’re trying to decide if you should move out of state or not, weigh your pros and cons.
Will it be cheaper? Will you be able to get a decent job or income? Do you need to be near family and friends? Are you looking for a specific climate? These are things you need to ask yourself before deciding.
How much money should I save to move out of state?
Well, that depends on where you’re moving from and where you’re moving to. But, experts recommend around $7,000 for many out-of-state moves.
How I prepared to move out of state
If you’re anything like me, you want to be organized and prepared to move out of state with as few issues as possible. Here’s how I did it.
Sold my furniture
All of my furnishings were courtesy of Ikea, Pier 1, and Craigslist. Because I chose to purposefully purchase inexpensive furnishings, I never had any plan to have these items long-term. This includes furniture, lamps, and other accessories.
Because it costed more to ship items than what they were worth, I sold my items and purchased new (to me) furniture once I moved.
I sold my furniture through:
- Craigslist
- My local apartment complex forum
All of my furniture was in excellent shape. When I was unable to sell an item, I donated it to my local thrift store.
Got rid of unused items on eBay
I had a ridiculous walk-in closet that was bursting with clothes, shoes, and all sorts of accessories. And I can honestly say I never wore more than around 10% of everything in my closet.
I started listing items on eBay. I listed a handful of items each week on eBay until I moved. This gave me plenty of time to get organized!
Sold electronics online
I always have a couple of old electronics that I typically keep tucked away in a box. Usually, there isn’t anything wrong with these items – I would just feel the need to upgrade.
Luckily, electronics are usually easy to sell and ship, and you can get quite a bit of spare change by doing so!
After a quick search on eBay and Craigslist, many of my items had a pretty good shot to sell as-is or for parts, and I was able to get some extra gas money from them. Win!
Started shopping online early
One of the best ways I prepared to move out of state was by starting my research early. Having an Amazon Prime membership made this really convenient.
I was able to purchase a new mattress and other household items through Amazon and had all of it arrive at my new address the day after I moved in. I knew I was going to be tired after the long drive and would not feel like running around to different shops to stock up on supplies. This saved me HOURS and nothing beats free shipping and delivery!
I also used the Ibotta and Fetch apps. You use them after you go grocery shopping, take pictures of your receipts, and earn cash back or points that you can redeem for gift cards.
Gave my car a tune up
If you’re driving a long distance in your daily driver (I added nearly 2,500 miles to my car over the course of three days!) you want to make sure your car is in decent shape.
I took my car in for some major work and she was almost as good as new. Aside from out-of-the-ordinary maintenance, I also checked my tires, got an oil change, and made sure my car was near perfect. The last thing I wanted was for a problem to occur while I was on the road in unfamiliar territory.
Filled my prescriptions
Having all of my medication was essential. If you have a chronic illness or disorder, plan on making sure your refills are filled prior to moving.
I also planned on researching what pharmacies were in my area prior to moving in case of an emergency where I needed another refill or new medicines.
Pre-booked my lodging
I’m a big fan of hotel reward loyalty points, so I booked my hotel stays with a chain that I had a rewards account with. And, since I traveled with pets, I also made sure to look for only pet-friendly lodging.
It’s important to remember that, usually, the earlier the hotel room is booked, the better the savings. I also used sites like Rakuten to maximize my savings.
Rakuten literally pays you cash back when you make a purchase online and then gives you cash back. Sometimes, the site even runs deals where you get larger percentages of cash back depending on where you’re shopping, so keep an eye out.
Made sure my savings account was ready to go
Whether you want to start an emergency fund or a vacation fund or a moving fund, you have to start setting some money aside.
If you’re like most people and struggle with saving, I suggest starting small, and building as you can. Even just a few dollars each week is better than nothing! Also, be sure to use a higher yield savings account so you can earn some money on your money.
Related reading:
Other (Little Things) I Did
Although the 7 to-dos listed up top are the most important tasks that I believe everyone should have on their to-do list, I did some other little things as well.
Saved All the Receipts Related to My Move
It’s never a bad idea to keep receipts. For example, donating a bunch of items (like I did) can mean a tax write-off. And, keeping track of your finances while moving across the country is easier when you know where you’re spending your money and why.
Forwarded My Mail
This is something that I’ve always forgotten to do until the last minute, and it can become a hassle. You don’t want to miss out on anything important!
So make sure your mail is forwarded to your new address asap. If you don’t know what you’ll address will be, get it forwarded to a PO Box, or to someone you trust. Just don’t forget to do it! Luckily, it only costs a few dollars, and is super easy to do online!
A Checklist For You To Help You Move Out Of State
Now that you know how I moved out of state and did it easily (well, easier than I have before), let’s talk about what you need to do before you move out of state.
At Least Two Months Before Moving
This is your time to prepare and get yourself organized! Here’s what you need to start two months before:
- Have a moving binder: This will keep the documents you’ll need in one place. This may include your new place and the rental agreement (or even mortgage paperwork), utility info, insurance info for your car, place, and even yourself, and more!
- Explore the neighborhood: If you can, explore your new neighborhood! What are the closest schools? Grocery shops? Where can you go out to eat? How are the neighbors? All things you’ll want to know before your move, so you can plan accordingly.
- Start getting moving supplies: Plan on moving yourself? Time for some supplies! Think boxes, tape, a dolly, markers, and even these nifty little barcodes.
- Book appointments: This is especially important if you have kids or anything that is important to have an exam for. I’m talking eye exams, mental wellness exams, and even seeing your gynecologist if needed! It may take a while to feel comfortable in a new place, so get it all out of the way now so you’re good for another year.
- Have a moving budget: How much do you want to spend, and what’s your max budget? It’s important to have this in mind and keep it front and center so you don’t overspend.
Six Weeks Before
Now it’s time to really start checking off the items on your checklist!
- Schedule your car shipment: If you’ll need to get your car delivered to your new place, now is the time to get that scheduled. Don’t wait until the last minute!
- Buy your plane ticket: Plan on flying to your new place? Stats show it’s cheaper to book between 6-8 weeks ahead, so now is the time to do it.
- Rent/Purchase: If you haven’t found a place to stay yet, you’ll want to do that now. Get your security deposit and first month’s rent in order if you’re renting, or put in an offer on a home and get that mortgage approved.
- Research moving companies: Unless you plan to DIY your move (which is totally okay if you are!), now is the time to also research moving companies. Don’t be afraid to get multiple quotes!
- Rent a truck: DIYing your move? That’s cool too. Go ahead and schedule a truck rental.
- Declutter: Don’t wait to do this! The less you have to move, the better. Get rid of old clothes, furniture, and things you really don’t plan on keeping.
- Schedule meetings/hangouts: If your family, friends, or colleagues want to see you before you move, they can’t wait until the last minute (you’ll be too laser-focused on the move, and they’ll want your attention). Now is the time to schedule that 1:1 time.
One Month Before
Alright, you’ve got the big to-do’s out of the way. Now let’s focus on some other action items that you may have forgotten.
- Rent a storage unit: But only if you need one! If you don’t have a place yet, or plan on traveling for a while before settling down, it may be a good idea to put important items in a storage unit.
- Contact your new utility companies: Once you have your new home picked out, call around to the utility companies in that area and set appointments to get your items like internet, water, and electricity turned on.
- Get all your records: You’ll want to have all birth certificates, passports, Social Security cards, deeds, titles, medical records, insurance cards, pet documents, and other important documents in one place and secured for your move. And if you don’t have these items, now is the time to get them!
- Plan your route: If you plan on driving to your new place (or getting there by train or multiple transport modes), you’ll want to plan your route. Don’t forget to book hotels or Airbnbs at each stopping point, and know where gas and food are going to be nearby.
- Get a professional cleaner: Trust me, it’s worth it, especially if you’re not single or moving with multiple people. If you want to DIY this, now is the time to make a cleaning list and get working on it (but I really suggest a cleaner).
- Cancel old utilities: Call your current utility companies to tell them your shut-off date. Also, if you’ll owe them any money, ask them to send your final bill to the new place.
Two Weeks Before
You’re so close! Now it’s time to:
- Update your information with companies: Give your financial institutions, mailbox, phone service provider, insurance, and other important companies your new address.
- Transfer your renter’s insurance: If you’re renting, you’ll need to call your insurance company and give them your new location and move-in date.
- Confirm with your moving company: And note when they’ll start that day!
- Start Packing: If you haven’t yet, it’s time to start filling boxes. You’ll want to be finished with packing a few days before you actually leave.
- Declutter Your Fridge: Start eating those perishable items and freezer goods, and don’t buy more than you need. It’s much easier to clean out an almost empty fridge/freezer and pantry than it is to clear out a full one (and waste food).
One Week Before
Almost there! Next, you’ll want to:
- Set up mail forwarding: Contact your local post office and forward your mail to your new address. You can also do this with your rental company or landlord (if renting) and set up a forwarding address online.
- Have a “Move in Box”: You’ll want to pack essentials for your first night at your new home, like a first aid kit, food (or a gift card/cash for food and tip), a change of clothes, toothbrush and othe hygiene items, and anything else that will make you comfy on your first night. And don’t forget an air mattress, just in case!
- Get cash: Emergencies and tolls happen to everyone. Have cash on hand. I suggest at least $100-$200 in smaller bills.
- Clean and pack your car: If you’re driving, clean your car. Also, pack it with necessities like jumper cables, road flares, a first aid kit, a spare tire, and other items that will keep you safe and warm should you get stranded or need help.
- Finish packing: You’ll want to have the tape on your final boxes two days before the moving truck arrives.
The Day Before
This is mostly worrying about the finishing touches, as most of the big things should be finished! The day before you move out of state, you’ll want to:
- Pack snacks: This is especially important if you plan on road-tripping. And don’t forget drinks and a cooler!
- Have documents/sentimental items: Remember those important documents you were supposed to get? Keep them with you. And don’t forget family jewelry, comfort items, or sentimental items that you don’t want to lose.
Moving Out Day
Congratulations! You’re on to your new place! Here’s what you should do the day you move out:
- Do a final check: Is everything cleaned and moved out? Did you get your security deposit back? Are you leaving the keys? Did you forget anything in the shed or garage? Now is the time to make sure!
- Take a moment: Moving can be emotionally draining. And even if you’re proud of yourself, it can be bittersweet to move out of where you called home. Take a moment to cry if you need to, or look around the space one more time.
Moving In Day
Now that you’ve made it to your new home, you’ll want to:
- Bring in your “Move In Box”: See, that can really come in handy.
- Update your voter registration: You can do this any time in the first few months of moving, and don’t forget if you’re registered in a different state!
- Update car and insurance documents: You’ll need new tags, registration, updated insurance documents, a new ID, and much more. Now is the time to get that done, or at least make a plan to do it in 30 days.
- Notify the government and other companies: You’ll want to make sure that you change your address with the IRS, your job (if keeping your job), social security, the VA, and other government entities if needed.
Moving Out Of State: Making It All Work
While moving is always stressful, having priorities and knowing what to do makes it all easier.
Have you ever moved out of state? If so, how did you manage? Was it stressful or did you plan ahead to make sure it wasn’t?
