Thanks to iMove for the following guest post. Relocation is always on the mind for military families, so take a look at the following and see what you can include as you create your PCS move ‘to-do’ list!
Moving to a new state can be an exciting experience, but it also requires a lot of planning and preparation. It’s easy to miss on important details because there are many things to consider. To help ease the transition, here are some tips to keep in mind for a smooth relocation.
Research Your New State Thoroughly
Before you start packing, take the time to research your new state thoroughly. This will help you better understand the state’s climate, geography, job market, housing availability and affordability, taxes, and overall cost of living. This research will also help you determine if the state fits your lifestyle and career goals.
Create a Realistic Budget
Moving to a new state can be expensive, so creating a realistic budget that covers all aspects of your move is crucial. Consider expenses such as hiring movers, renting a moving vehicle or trailer, packing supplies, and gas, and factor them into your budget. Make sure to stick to your budget throughout the move to avoid overspending.
Research Laws and Regulations
Each state has different regulations and requirements regarding residency, driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, taxes, etc. Research the laws and regulations of your new state before you move to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any unexpected issues.
Create a Moving Checklist
List everything you need to accomplish before leaving your current state. This should include updating your address with the post office, transferring utilities to your new address, and switching your driver’s license. A checklist will help you stay organized and on track during the move.
Get Rid of Unnecessary Items
A move to a new state is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Donate or sell items in good condition or dispose of them if they’re no longer usable. This can save you money on storage and moving costs and make a move less stressful.
Give Yourself Enough Time to Prepare
Moving to a new state requires careful planning, so give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Start planning and packing a few months before the move to ensure a smoother transition.
Hire a Reliable Moving Company
Before choosing a moving company, research and compare several different services to find one that fits your needs and budget. Look for reviews and recommendations from previous customers to ensure a reliable company that will provide good customer service and protects your belongings.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Pack
Packing can be a stressful task, so start immediately. Start packing early with a list of necessary supplies such as boxes, packing tape, markers, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Organize items by room and label boxes to make unpacking easier.
Take Inventory of Your Belongings
Create an inventory of all your belongings, including photos or videos, to keep track of everything during the move. This will also help ensure that everything arrives safely and is accounted for.
Be Cautious with Fragile Items
Fragile items such as glassware, mirrors, and artwork should be packed carefully with appropriate wrapping and labeling. Make sure to inform the moving company of any fragile items and double-check the state of your goods as they are loaded and unloaded.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Moving to a new state can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have contingency plans in place. Get insurance to protect your belongings and prepare for unexpected complications such as lost or damaged items.
Research Healthcare in the New State
Research the healthcare system in your new state, including doctors, hospitals, and health insurance policies. Look for the best health insurance providers in the state and choose one that suits your needs.
Research Schools If You Have Children
If you have children, research schools in the new state to find the best educational options for them. Consider factors such as curriculum, quality of education, after-school programs, and extracurricular activities. Check to see if the new state has different standards from your former state.
Keep Important Documents with You
One of the most critical things to remember when moving to a new state is to keep all your essential documents with you, especially during transport. It’s easy to misplace important documents, so it’s best to keep them close at hand. Documents such as passports, medical records, driver’s licenses, and other sensitive information should be kept from your other belongings.
Conclusion
Moving to a new state can be an exciting new chapter in your life. By considering these things, remember you can make transitioning to your new home and lifestyle more manageable, less stressful, and more enjoyable. Moving is a big step, but it mustn’t be difficult.
By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for iMOVE
