Moving to a new apartment that is just a few blocks away from the house you grew up in is one thing. You were probably excited when you took this step. After all, it was the first time you got the chance to experience complete independence. But still, the move took some time, and surely you had a lot of things to take care of.
However, relocating to a completely new state is something totally different. Job hunting is one of the most popular reasons people decide to do this. Still, can you imagine what this process includes, especially when compared to the previously described move? Yes, it is a considerable undertaking, the one that requires a lot of planning and organizing, so, in the following article, we will present you with five things you have to think about and prepare.
1. Plan everything in advance
Without a doubt, this is the best thing you can do. The sooner you begin planning everything, the better. If you are moving alone, then the process shouldn’t be too complicated. Nevertheless, if you are relocating with a spouse and young kids, you will need a lot of patience.
First things first, you have to decide when you will move. Obviously, if you are about to start a new job, you probably already have a target date. However, if this is not the case, our advice is to choose an off-season. Yes, it really exists. Basically, most people move during July and August, so you should avoid these if possible. It might seem odd, but most moving companies have special price rates for an off-season, which means that this is a great way to save some extra cash.
Next, you have to hire a long-distance moving company. Yes, you have to find professionals who specialize in this because it is the only way to rest assured that all your possession will be delivered to your new address on time. According to gpsmoving.com, you can book the move up to six months beforehand, and what’s more, it is recommended you do it.
2. Pack, Sell, or Toss?
The next question you have to answer is regarding all your stuff. As you know, you have three options – toss it away, sell it or donate it, and take it with you. Generally speaking, this is the part of the process most people struggle with. How can you throw away something you have used for so many years, and that holds beautiful memories?
Yes, we understand, but this is when one year rule applies. If you haven’t used a certain in the last year, then you don’t need it, meaning that it definitely shouldn’t go into the packing box. Believe us – following this rule is the best way to pack all your belongings quickly. When it comes to those you won’t be taking with you, you can gift them to someone in need, donate to a local charity, or organize a garage sale, whatever works for you.
Nevertheless, don’t forget to take your time and soak in all the memories. Think of the first steps your child took in that living room, or reminisce about all those gatherings you hosted for your friends. Yes, this can be quite emotional, but you shouldn’t observe the move as something that forces you to leave all those memories behind, but instead, as an opportunity to create new ones.
3. Create a schedule
Theoretically, this process might appear to be simple. You find a new place, hire a moving company, and pack all your stuff. Still, don’t forget that you have to pack everything, literally everything. You have to go through the stuff you haven’t touched in years. Yes, this is true, even if you won’t take it with you, you still have to organize everything.
Due to this reason, our advice is to create a schedule and stick to it. When going through all those boxes, time can slip away easily, so you should follow this timetable to ensure you stay on the right track. In addition, some things can be packed almost immediately, while you will need the others until the very last day in that home. Don’t forget to think about this, as well.
4. Label all the boxes properly
Since we are on the subject of packing, we have to mention something that will significantly facilitate this entire process. Not only do you have to organize all the stuff in different categories, but you also have to plan how you will pack them. Another thing, you probably think that you will remember where each item is, but believe us – you won’t.
Because of this, you should create another plan, and don’t forget to label all the boxes correctly. Of course, you won’t mix the things from the bedroom and kitchen, but don’t forget to write all the necessary details to the boxes!
Why is this important? Well, first of all, you have to label the boxes that carry the fragile items since the movers need to be extra careful with them. Secondly, if you think that packing is a lengthy process, just wait until the time comes to unpack all of those things. By the time you get to your new home, have your possessions delivered, clean everything, you will be exhausted. Still, this is when you will have to unpack at least some of those boxes, so by having them marked correctly, you will be able to find items you need within minutes.
5. Don’t forget about the paperwork
Finally, another important thing you have to do before moving to another state is to get all your documents in order. Obviously, there could be many papers you have to get done, depending on multiple factors, such as your new state, profession, and so on.
However, let’s discuss some essential ones. Firstly, you have to get your address changed. This might seem like a complex process, but the truth is that it doesn’t have to be if you fill out the forms well in advance. The same thing goes for your driving license, DMV registration, etc. Just make sure to initiate this process beforehand because, otherwise, it would be another thing on your never-ending to-do list.
