Freight truck on highway. California, USA

At some point, most of you’ll experience relocating and moving out of state. 

Perhaps you recently got hired at a new job that requires you to relocate. Or, maybe your current state has a very high cost of living, and you need to move somewhere that fits your budget. Regardless of your reason for moving interstate, the entire moving process can be tedious and overwhelming process for anyone.  

Moving interstate is much more complex than a local move. Aside from the huge difference in terms of geography, moving interstate also means you need to consider other things like finding new schools, checking out their available establishments, and getting used to the new neighborhood. But through organization and careful planning, you can simplify your interstate move, reduce the stress, and eventually, make the whole moving experience smoother and easier. 

This post will present you with a nine-item checklist on how to plan your upcoming interstate move. Keep on reading to learn more. 

1. Set A Realistic Budget 

An interstate move won’t be cheap. Thus, before you start packing and moving boxes, the first thing you need to do is create a realistic budget. Everything you do for your interstate move should be budgeted carefully to avoid overspending and possibly paying charges beyond your capability. 

Thus, determine your budget and see how much you’re willing to spend on this move. After you’ve written down your fixed budget, list all possible moving expenses. Don’t forget to budget extra money for unexpected expenses.  

2. Choose Your Interstate Moving Company 

Now that you have a budget, you may start searching for a moving company that’ll help you during the entire moving process. 

Although some of you may be tempted to opt for a do-it-yourself (DIY) move to cut down on some costs, it can be risky, especially for an interstate move. Moving all your belongings alone without professional assistance can put your valuables at risk of damage and breakage during transit. Plus, lifting and moving boxes without the proper equipment can be physically demanding and put you at risk of injuries.  

Hence, the moment you decide to move interstate, you need to choose your interstate moving company at the earliest time possible. Hiring your moving company too late might mean you wouldn’t be able to move to your desired date due to unavailable schedules or fully-booked appointments.  

Meanwhile, searching for a moving company early will give you plenty of time to compare different companies, their rates, services, and packages. Some companies like Big Boy Movers and other moving services also provide additional services such as packing. Preferably, opt for a moving company that offers a complete interstate move package with insurance coverage.  

3. Take Inventory Of Everything 

Before you get ahead into packing, you must first take inventory of all the items and furniture pieces you’re planning to move with you. You can take inventory of your items according to your house’s rooms. For example, you can list down first all the items in your bedroom. Once done, you may move to your kitchen, bathroom, and living room. You may create an inventory digitally or traditionally (pen and paper). Creating an inventory will make it easier to keep track of your items during packing, unpacking, and moving.  

4. Declutter And Downsize 

While you go through your stuff for inventory, you may use this as an opportunity to assess your items and get rid of the things you won’t need for your new home. Decluttering will not only downsize your moving load, but it can also help you save money on moving costs. So, try reorganizing your stuff and letting go of the things you won’t need anymore. You may either dispose of them properly through a rubbish remover, donate them to charity, or host a yard/garage sale of your used and preloved items. 

5. Gather And Check Your Packing Materials 

You won’t have any problem gathering your packing materials since your chosen moving company will probably supply them for you. Once you’ve gathered them together, check each one for any possible damage or tear. Using damaged, worn, or defective packing boxes may put your belongings at risk of damage during transit. 

Furthermore, it’s also recommended to use high-quality packing materials, such as: 

  • Thick packing tapes;
  • Tape guns;
  • Packing papers;
  • Bubble wraps;
  • Furniture pads; 
  • Soft towels; 
  • Pillows or cushions (to cushion your valuables);
  • Multi-color permanent markers; and the like.   

Van full of moving boxes and furniture near house

6. Know the Dos And Don’ts of Packing 

Before you start packing, it’s also a good idea to know the dos and don’ts of packing. 

Check with your moving company about their rules about what you can and cannot pack with you for the move. Generally, flammable items like matches, lighters, cleaning fluids, aerosol cans, and fireworks aren’t allowed to be packed and moved in a container, moving truck, or even by your personal vehicle. 

Other items you’re not allowed to pack and bring with you for the interstate move may include: 

  • Fuel and motor oils;
  • Plants and potted flowers; 
  • Fire extinguishers;
  • Cleaning solvents;
  • Paints;
  • Pool chemicals;
  • Nail polish remover and nail paints;
  • Fertilizers and weed killer;
  • Pesticides; and others. 

7. Arrange for Storage 

An interstate move can take a day or more, depending on the distance of your move. This means that your items and furniture pieces may not arrive with you in your new home at the same time. Thus, before the actual moving day, make arrangements and reservations for long-term storage options. That way, you’ll have safe and proper storage space for your belongings and other possessions. You can keep them there until such a time when you’re ready to unpack.  

8. Update And Cancel Your Current Services And Subscriptions 

Now that your moving day is set and the other factors along with it, you may start updating your services and canceling your current subscriptions. You don’t want to keep paying your bills and subscriptions only to realize you’re paying them for your current home. 

At least four to eight weeks before your move, list all the services and utilities you’ve used for your current home and contact them to inform them about your move. This way, they can take note of your new address, transfer your mailing address, or cancel your subscriptions.  

9. Plan Your Travel Schedule And Itinerary 

Before the actual move, create the itinerary and travel schedule for the moving day. This way, you, your movers, and the rest of your family moving with you will agree and know the exact date, time, and flow of the moving process. If your interstate move requires you to travel by plane, ensure to book everyone’s plane tickets in advance.  

The Bottom Line 

There’s a lot to manage and deal with when you’re moving interstate. But with the right checklist, you can ensure that the whole moving process will go smoothly without missing anything. So, are you ready to move? Good luck, and don’t forget to take this checklist with you.