Relocating is hard. And in many ways, the longer the distance, the harder the move. Moving across state lines presents a unique set of challenges. If you're wondering how to move to another state, we have you covered with this moving out of state checklist.
Click to download moving out of state checklist PDF
This is perhaps the most essential element to pulling off a move to another state. Moving isn't cheap, especially when you're crossing state lines.
The American Moving and Storage Association estimates that an inter-state move by hired professionals costs about $4,300. Even if you move yourself, you'll need the appropriate budget for truck and storage rental, gas and any interim accommodations.
You'll also need to plan for any cost of living changes in your new state. Make sure you understand if major expenditures like rent, groceries, and insurance costs. You should also do research on taxes in the state you're interested in moving to.
Make sure there are career opportunities for you in the area or surrounding areas and consider what the commute might look like. Check average salary ranges in your industry to assure that they are adequate for your cost of living.
While it's not necessary to find a job before you move, if you do your company may provide relocation benefits, easing the cost of the move. If you don't have a job lined up, make sure that you have 3-6 months worth of living expenses saved.
You may also want to consider a remote role, so you can move around with ease.
You can only learn so much from researching a city online. If you've never visited before, plan a short trip to the city so you can explore different neighborhoods and talk to locals.
Consider what each neighborhood has to offer including school ratings and recreational activities. If you're moving somewhere with a climate you're not used to, take that into account as well.
If possible, determine a place to live before you move or have a short-term living situation figured out. Visiting the city you're interested in is the perfect time to view apartments.
If you're nervous about signing a year-long lease before you truly know the area, try Airbnb or see if you can negotiate a six month or month-to-month lease as you settle in.
Moving always comes with risks. But, moving to a new state has an even higher risk level. When relocating that far, be sure that your moving company is equipped to make your move easy and safe.
You should be able to find the following information for reputable moving companies:
Most businesses will have this information readily available — probably on their website. If a moving company is unable to provide you with any of these, that should raise some red flags for you. You can also check Yelp or a similar site for consumer reviews to help you determine the quality of various moving companies. If you go the DIY route and use a moving pod, make sure you do your research on that company as well.
Contact your utility companies and cancel your services. These include internet, electricity, and cable. You may not have to worry about this if your landlord takes care of these things.
When relocating to a new state, you need to make arrangements to activate utilities at your new home. Some apartments will make these arrangements for you, but in some cases, you'll be left on your own.
Consult with your realtor if you're using one, your landlord or search the internet to find local information for setting up utilities like water, gas, electric and telecommunication services.
One of the most important parts of moving is thoroughly changing your address for all of your important information.
With the USPS, you can change your address online. You'll also need to let your friends and family know, as well as banks, government institutions (like the IRS and DMV) and any other interested parties.
Medical records are probably the last thing on your mind when relocating to a new state but if you prepare ahead of time to transfer your records to a new state, the whole process will go by a lot smoother.
Instead of scrambling to get copies sent when you inevitably need your medical records in your new town, pay a visit to your dentist and general practitioner before leaving your town. If you request a printed copy to take with you, you can simply provide them to your new doctor when the time comes.
If your move is thousands of miles away, you may not want to put that kind of stress on your vehicle.
You'll need to think through your options. Maybe a friend can drive it for you, or you can always hire a professional to do the job. There are a few alternative methods for moving your vehicle to your new home.
You'll need to go through the formal process of claiming residency in your new state. Doing so is primarily for tax purposes. If you don't do it, you could end up owing taxes in more than one state, and if you don't do it legally, you'll owe a hefty fine.
Each state has different guidelines, so it's best to consult the state's official website for information on establishing domicile.
Most states require you to get a new driver's license within a certain window of moving. Make sure to check state laws.
You'll also need to register your vehicle in your new state. First, update your car insurance policy. When you register your vehicle you'll need proof of insurance, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
Pet laws vary from one state to the other. Check out the pet registration and ownership laws in the state you're moving to.
You should also keep your pet's information on you throughout the move. In some states, police officers can actually require that you present pet vaccination or registration info and you can be fined for not having it.
Moving to a new state means starting a fresh chapter of your life. Now that you know everything that needs to be done when moving out of state, you'll be able to complete this journey with ease. Whether you are transitioning to a big bustling city like New York City or looking to retire in sunny and calm San Diego, this checklist will ensure you are ready to go.
Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.