The Complete Guide To Moving To A New State
Whether it be due to a career change, family obligation, or you just felt like a change of scenery, there may come a day when you decide to pack up and head off to an entirely new state. While moving, in general, can be stressful and require a lot of thought, moving to an entirely new state brings its own set of challenges.
From making sure your belongings make the distance to your new home to the legal and logistically work, there’s a lot to take care of. However, with a little bit of organization and legwork, you can have a smooth start in your new state and home.
Sort Through Your Belongings
Yes, you should go through your clothes and other belongings in order to sort what you will and won’t be taking to your new home; this is especially important to do when you’re moving to a new state.
One of the main reasons you’ll want to sort, take, toss or donate certain items is to save yourself a little money. Typically, the more stuff you bring with you, the more space you’ll require to transport everything and the more it will cost you. That translates into needing a bigger truck to house everything which will often lead to higher moving costs.
The second reason you want to sort everything out is so you don't start off your new life in a new state with a ton of unneeded clutter. There are plenty of things you can leave behind or get rid of, from clothing to decor to furniture. In fact, some pieces of furniture are better left behind and purchased new once you're in your new home.
Pack Wisely
Aside from sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you don't need to take with you, you also should pack what you are taking wisely. Pack items you're going to want readily available in their own boxes instead of mixing them in with general items. Create a packing list so you can easily identify what’s in each box.
You won’t necessarily know where the closest home store is in your new state, so items like sheets, pillows, blankets, toiletries, and some kitchen items, such as plates and cutlery, should be in their own boxes so you can easily get to them the first few nights you move in. If you’re driving, you’re better off keeping these few boxes in your car so you have them right when you arrive at the house.
Change Your Address
The last thing you want to have happen is to the person moving into your old home to get all of your future mail. Either in person or online, change your mailing address with the post office. You should also notify your credit card companies and insurance providers of your changing residence so that you don't run into any problems in your new state. Lastly, let all your friends and family know your new address so they can send you housewarming gifts.
Take Care of Medical Needs
To make your life more convenient and have information more readily on hand, get copies of all of your medical records from your doctors. Even if it's been a while since you so a particular provider, a podiatrist for example, you should still get a copy of all of your paperwork.
Once you have your records, you should also ask your doctor for a refill on any prescriptions you take so you are not without necessary medications in the near future.
Take Care of Your Pets’ Needs
In the hecticness of it all, don't forget to take care of your furry friend’s needs. Make sure to pack up all of your pet’s belongings — beds, toys, blankets, bowls, etc. — leaving a bed, some food, and a bowl free to use during the trip to your new home.
You should also have your veterinarian print out all of your pet's medical records, especially those concerning vaccinations and medical histories. If your pet takes any recurring medications, have those refilled before you make your move. Lastly, it would be wise to research a 24-hour animal hospital in your new area in case anything goes wrong within your first few days of the move and you haven't found a general vet yet.
Plan How You’ll Make Friends
One of the most intimidating things about moving to a brand new state can be the idea of having to make new friends. The good news is that, in today's digital age, it's extremely easy to find yourself a brand new set of pals.
Besides using online programs like Meetup.com, you can also take a few other routes to meet people in your new state, such as:
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Volunteering at a local charitable organization
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Joining a sports league
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Check out the local nightlife
Drive Properly
Once you’re in your new state, it’s time to take care of some legal items. For starters, make sure you switch your driver’s license over to your new state as well as your car’s registration. Some states require vehicle inspections so it’s important to research your state’s particular laws.
Find New Providers
After you’ve gotten settled in your new state, it’s time to find new service providers. From waxers and hairstylists to doctors and dentists, make sure you have all of your health and beauty needs covered.
Go the Distance with College HUNKS
Moving to an entirely new state can be stressful enough without having to worry if all your belongings will get there in one piece, safe and sound. That’s why you should hire the best moving company possible to care for your things.
College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving® is proud to offer full-service long distance moving and packing services. Whether you’re relocating across the state or across the country, we’ll carefully ship your items to your new home quickly and efficiently to ensure a five-star experience every step of the way. Get started with us today!