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State Move Guide: Costs & Preparation

Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Last – Minute Moving, | 11/01/2024 |

The Cost of Moving Out of State

The cost of moving out of state can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the distance you're moving, the size of your home, and whether you hire professional movers. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of a long-distance move is $4,300. However, it's not uncommon for costs to exceed $10,000, especially if you're moving across the country.

Here are some of the biggest expenses to factor in:

Transportation:This will be your biggest expense. If you're hiring professional movers, be sure to get quotes from several different companies before making a decision. If you're doing it yourself, you'll need to factor in the cost of renting a truck or trailer, gas, and insurance.
Packing supplies:Boxes, tape, packing peanuts, and bubble wrap can add up quickly. You can save money by buying used boxes or renting plastic bins from a moving company.
Temporary housing:If you need to stay in a hotel or rental property while you're looking for a permanent home, this can add to your moving costs.
Transferring utilities and closing costs:Don't forget to factor in the cost of transferring your utilities and closing costs on your old and new homes.

How to Prepare for a Move Out of State

Once you've got a handle on the costs, it's time to start planning the logistics of your move. Here are a few tips:

Start early:The earlier you start planning, the better. Give yourself plenty of time to get organized, pack your belongings, and find a new place to live.
Create a budget:Be realistic about how much you can afford to spend on your move. Once you have a budget, you can start making decisions about how to allocate your resources.
Declutter and purge:Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of unwanted belongings. Sell, donate, or recycle anything you don't need or use anymore.
Pack smart:Pack your belongings by room and label everything clearly. This will make it easier to unpack and organize your new home.
Get insurance:Moving insurance can help protect your belongings from damage or loss during the move.
Transfer your records: Don't forget to transfer your driver's license, voter registration, and other important records to your new state.
Update your address:Make sure to update your address with the post office, your bank, and any other creditors.
Say goodbye:Make time to say goodbye to friends and family before you move.

Making the Most of Your Move

Moving out of state can be a stressful experience, but it can also be an exciting opportunity for a fresh start. By planning ahead and being prepared, you can make your move go as smoothly as possible. And who knows, you might just love your new home state!

Additional Tips

Visit your new city:If possible, try to visit your new city before you move. This will give you a chance to get acquainted with the area and find a neighborhood that you like.
Connect with locals:Once you've moved in, start connecting with locals. Join a club or group, or volunteer in your community. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Explore your new surroundings:Take some time to explore your new city and state. There are bound to be new things to see and do.

Happy moving!