If you need some advice on moving across country, don’t worry. This list below will help make your move as seamless as possible. Follow these tips so your cross-country move doesn’t turn into a nightmare.
Start Planning Early
One of the best pieces of advice on moving across country is to start planning your move as early as possible. The earlier you start, the less stressed you’ll be and the more likely everything will go smoothly. It’s best to start planning as soon as you know you’re moving. For instance, if you’re applying for a job in another state, start researching moving companies and gathering quotes. If you decide to accept the job, you’ll already have a head start on your move.
Create a Budget
Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to create a budget and stick to it. Make sure to factor in the cost of hiring a moving company, renting a truck or trailer, gas, lodging, and food. You should also factor in the cost of any storage fees if you need to store your belongings before or after the move. In addition, don’t forget to factor in the cost of changing your address and transferring your utilities. Planning ahead and making space in your budget for these items can help you avoid financial stress during your move.
Get Quotes from Moving Companies
If you’re hiring a moving company, it’s important to get quotes from multiple companies so you can compare prices. Ask about hidden fees and what is included in the quote. For example, some companies charge for fuel, while others include it in the price. Asking about fees is one of the best pieces of advice on moving across country. In addition, ask about the company’s insurance policy in case your belongings are damaged during the move. By getting multiple quotes and asking about fees, you can be sure you’re getting the best deal on your move.
You Don’t Need to Fix Everything Before You Move
If you’re one of the many people that are worried about losing your safety deposit because you didn’t fix that hole in the wall, don’t worry. You don’t need to fix everything before you move. Most landlords are understanding and will work with you to make repairs after you move in. If something needs to be fixed, don’t stress about it, but do make a note of it and plan ahead. For instance, if you’re in need of garage door repairs, you can contact contractors a little before you move. Not stressing about repairs is one of the best pieces of advice on moving across country that can help you stay sane during your move.
Pack an Essentials Box
When you’re packing for your move, it’s important to pack an essentials box. This box should include items that you’ll need during the first few days in your new home. For instance, pack a change of clothes, toiletries, towels, bedding, and dishes. This way, you won’t have to worry about unpacking everything right away and you’ll have the essentials you need. If you’re having trouble wondering what to pack, consider spending a day making a list of everything you use. The minute you wake up, you’ll need an alarm clock and bedding. Then, throughout the day, make a note of everything you use, from your toothbrush to your coffee mug.
Change Your Address
One of the last things you should do before you move is change your address. You can change your address online or by visiting your local post office. Be sure to give yourself enough time to change your address so you don’t miss any important mail. Most post offices will reroute your mail for a few weeks, but it’s still a good idea to change your address as close to your move date as possible. In addition, update your address on any major accounts, such as your bank, credit card, and utilities. Doing so will save you time and hassle after you move.
Get Big Tasks Out of the Way Quickly
If you purchased a new home and have major renovations, it’s best to start them early and not move until they are completed. For instance, if you need to hire a residential roofer, one of the best pieces of advice on moving across country is to hire your roofer and conduct repairs before moving in. Major home issues can be stressful, and you don’t want to worry about them after you move.
Don’t Be Afraid to Personalize Your New Home
From hiring a cabinet painter to add a pop of color to your kitchen to adding family photos to your walls, don’t be afraid to personalize your new home. After all, it is your home and you should feel comfortable in it. By personalizing your space, you’ll start to feel more at home quickly. If you’re moving cross country, one of the best pieces of advice on moving cross country is to make your home feel warm and inviting as soon as you can. With such a big change, it’s important to have a space that feels like your own.
Have Enough Bedrooms
You’d think that people would know to have enough bedrooms for their family before they move, but it happens more often than you’d think. One of the best pieces of advice on moving across country is to make sure you have enough bedrooms for your family. After all, you don’t want your kids sharing a bedroom or worse, sleeping on the couch. In addition, if you plan on having guests, you’ll want to have an extra bedroom for them. A basement construction service can help you turn your basement into an extra bedroom if needed.
Make Sure You’re Insured
When you move, you’ll want to make sure all of your belongings are insured. Your homeowner’s insurance should cover your belongings, but it’s a good idea to check with your agent to be sure. If you’re renting, your landlord’s insurance will likely cover the structure of the home, but not your belongings. In this case, you’ll want to purchase renters insurance. Fortunately, many rental insurance plants are relatively inexpensive.
Inspect Your New Place For Mold
Mold is hazardous, and you don’t want to move into a home that has it. If you’re concerned about mold, ask your real estate agent to have the home inspected for mold before you move in. A mold removal contractor can help preserve your health and the structural integrity of your new home. They can also inspect your home for signs of mold, such as musty odors and water stains.
Be Prepared for Pests
If you’re moving to a new home, be prepared for pests. Unfortunately, many homes have pests, such as cockroaches, ants, and mice. If you find pests in your new home, call a pest control company right away. Most pest control companies offer free inspections and will be able to get rid of the pests quickly. In addition, if you’re moving far from your hometown, one of the best pieces of advice on moving across country is to familiarize yourself with the local pests. Doing so can help you be prepared and recognize pests before they invade your home.
Research Flora and Fauna Local to the Area
In addition to pests, you’ll also want to research the local flora and fauna. Some areas have poisonous snakes or plants. Others have deer that frequent backyards. By familiarizing yourself with the local wildlife, you can be prepared and take steps to avoid conflicts between wildlife and your garden. If you need help, local arborists are always available to help you identify local plants and animals.
Take Your Time Unpacking
After you move, you may be tempted to unpack everything right away. However, one of the best pieces of advice on moving cross country is to take your time unpacking. You don’t have to unpack everything in one day. It’s better to take your time so that you can properly clean and organize your belongings. In addition, if you hired a moving company, one of the best pieces of advice on moving across country is to inspect your belongings before you unpack them. Inspecting your objects will ensure everything arrived safely and in one piece.
Hire a Cleaning Service
After you move, you’ll likely want to hire a cleaning service. A professional cleaning service will be able to clean your home quickly and efficiently. They’ll also be able to get rid of any dirt or dust that may have been left behind by the movers. Chances are you’ll be too tired to clean after a long day of moving, so it’s best to hire a professional.
Make Your Home Cool and Comfortable
A heating and cooling company can help you make your new home cool and comfortable. They can also help you choose the right type of air conditioner for your home. If you’re moving to a new climate, it’s important to research the best type of air conditioning unit for your area. For instance, if you live in a humid area, you’ll want an air conditioner that can remove humidity from the air. Many people aren’t aware of how important it is to have the right type of air conditioner for their home until it’s too late. Don’t be stuck in the humidity or harsh cold, and hire an HVAC company as soon as possible. Doing so is the best advice on moving across country and into a new climate.
Research Transportation Options
You should start by investigating different ways to get from your old home to your new one. For example, if you’re moving a long distance, you may want to consider taking a train or bus. Or, if you’re moving within the same city, you might want to take a taxi or Uber. Regardless of how you plan on getting there, it’s important to research your options in advance so that you can plan ahead and pack an overnight bag, or book your tickets in advance. For instance, if you’re planning on traveling by airplane, don’t wait until the last minute to book your flight. You can always book a flight ahead of time around the window of your moving date and cancel if necessary.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
If you’re moving to a new neighborhood, one of the best pieces of advice on moving cross country is to get to know your neighbors. Introduce yourself and get their contact information. That way, if you ever need anything, you’ll know who to call. In addition, getting to know your neighbors is a great way to make new friends and feel less homesick. Your neighbors are also a great way to introduce you to local businesses.
Look Up Local Services
It’s best to research local services ahead of time, such as a nearby dental service, auto repair shop, and other critical services. Researching ahead of time can save you the headache of needing to find a service last minute and not knowing where to turn. Consider online reviews, ask your neighbors, or look up the business’s website to learn more.
Fix Issues Immediately After They Arise
Hire local plumbers, contractors, or other services as soon as you notice any issues in your new home. The sooner you address the issue, the less damage it will cause. For example, if you have a plumbing leak, hiring a plumber right away can prevent any water damage to your home.
Adjust Your Expectations
One of the best pieces of advice on moving cross country is to adjust your expectations. Things will likely not go as planned, and that’s okay. Don’t expect everything to be perfect because chances are it won’t be. Instead, focus on enjoying the most of your journey. Whether you’re taking a road trip or flying, there will be plenty of opportunities for adventure during your move.
Moving to a new home is an exciting time. However, it’s important to be prepared for the move. Following these pieces of advice on moving cross country can help you have a successful move and so you can remain stress-free!