Moving is challenging enough, but moving away from your state to a different one can amplify all the challenges by ten times. It’s a whole different ball game. People move for many reasons, including budget contraints, a better lifestyle, or job opportunities. For instance, you might move to Tampa, FL, to manage your finances better since the cost of living is 5% lower than in Colorado Springs!
However, although moving across the state is a grand adventure to embark upon, it can get pretty daunting to even begin the process.
There are so many details to take care of before finally boarding a plane – residency, job, taxes, and the frightening experience of packing your whole life in cardboard boxes. But you can make the situation easier by making a to-do list ahead of time.
You can jot down your day-to-day tasks and then refer to this list to ensure you are right on track. So grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Pick a Professional Moving Company
When it comes to moving out of state, especially from Colorado Springs, hiring an experienced, reliable moving company can make a significant difference in your moving experience.
Why? Because that state is swarming with an influx of tourists all year. Sure, it has a growing cultural diversity and art scene, but it gets tiring for residents when they have no peace. Then comes the scorching summers with sticky humidity, which worsens when it rains.
Moreover, the growing population has increased traffic congestion and living costs. So, there are a lot of factors to consider when you plan to move. Hiring experienced cross-state movers who know about the city’s situation can help you to navigate moving challenges better.
We suggest hiring long distance movers in Colorado Springs, as it can quickly get overwhelming and tiring if you try doing it on your own. These companies can streamline the process, saving you time and effort.
2. Research Your New State:
Before packing your things, take out time to thoroughly search about the new state you will be moving to. Consider the costs of living, job prospects, educational practices, weather and climate, and many other factors that may influence your new life. Knowing about the good and bad sides of your new city will determine if it is a good decision for you to move.
If you have the time and money, visit the place beforehand. Visit the local restaurants, shops, and communities, and strike up a conversation with the locals to see if the town is a good fit for your interests, lifestyle, and personality.
Talking to residents of the city helps a great deal in making the right decision. Use social media to connect with locals on groups and forums to learn. You can ask questions, get feedback on properties, and even make friends before you make the big move. Look for people with similar interests in your area. If you are an avid reader, search for any reading clubs you can join. There are plentiful opportunities to find like-minded people one way or another.
3. Plan Your Budget:
When you decide on moving, not only should you factor in the new life expenditure, but you should also consider the moving expenses. Other than the moving company expenses, there are packing supplies to take care of; you’ll need to order moving boxes, foam pouches, bubble wraps, and loads of packing tape. However, you can source them from people who don’t need them or get discounts from stores on bulk-buying.
Also, consider the storage costs, which entirely depend on your location, size of goods, time, and whether it’s climate controlled. Also, factor in costs such as gas, meals, and accommodation while moving, with frequent, unplanned trips to the hardware store.
4. Think about your pets
We often forget how stressful it is for pets to change their locations. Even as you start packing, your pet will get the gist that something is changing, and they might get anxious. Schedule a vet appointment if you see them getting frantic. The pet can prescribe medication or calming aids to soothe your pets through the moving process.
When moving, keep your pet’s favorite toy or blanket nearby. If you plan on boarding your pets, prepare their necessary vaccinations and paperwork beforehand.
5. Find a New Home:
Research different neighborhoods and consider factors like safety, amenities, and proximity to schools or work. After deciding on the neighborhood, you want to settle in, search for empty apartments in the area.
It’s better to do it before moving out of state. Read customer reviews, take tours of different apartments, and ask about amenities, such as electrical appliances or dishwashers.
Bring the requirements for the moving application if you end up liking a house. This may include a driver’s permit, income proof, a reference from a previous landlord, and employment details.
6. Notify Relevant Parties
Inform your current landlord about your move and follow the necessary procedures. Update your address with the post office, banks, credit card companies, and other important institutions. Transfer or cancel utilities, internet, cable, and other services.
7. Take Care of Legal Matters
Register your vehicle in the new state and obtain a new driver’s license and plates. Update your voter registration and research the process for registering to vote in your new state. Research and understand any state-specific laws or regulations that may differ from your current state.
8. Check in With your Mental Health
Moving can be emotionally challenging, so make time for self-care and stress relief. Stay connected with loved ones through calls, video chats, or visits. Embrace the adventure and look forward to the new experiences and opportunities that await you.
Conclusion
An inclusive to-do list and detailed budget can structure the chaos of a cross-country move. The process is stressful, but with a solid plan, you can make your transition smoother. Remember to take breaks and ask for help from family and friends.
The week ahead, when you settle into your new house, will be uncomfortable initially, but slowly you will meet new people and feel like a local in a regular coffee shop in town.