Sometimes we need a change. A drastic change like moving requires a lot of effort. To be sure you truly want this move use the ‘5 Why’s’ technique for some self reflection. Once you know this is what you want, set goals and get into action.
Moving out of state is an even bigger challenge. But the result can be an improved lifestyle that you have been waiting for. Keep that long term plan in mind and it will all be worth it. This article will some guidance on the top 10 things to prepare for when moving out of state.
1. How are you getting you, your family and things down there?
Options include shipping all of your items down using a moving company or storage company, like Pods. Then you can meet your things down there. Whether you fly or drive depends on what you are comfortable with and if you have kids and/or pets, what would be best for them. You could also rent a large U-Haul type of car and drive all of your things down yourself. I highly recommend pricing your options out. There are a lot of different companies and convenience may be worth something here.
2. Set up a place to live.
You’ll have to decide if you are going to rent an apartment or buy a home right away. If you are confident in the location and plan to stay a while, purchasing a home could be a good option. If you are testing the waters and just not ready to make a commitment, then you could get a lease for an apartment. Leases vary from 7-12 months. You will also have to consider if you are comfortable with virtual visits. If not, an extra trip down prior to your move may be necessary to scope out your quarters.
3. Change any professional licenses you may hold.
I’m an RN so this was an item on my checklist. This may not apply to you but if so, I added it to your list!
4. Find a job.
With virtual interviews being common, you may be able to accomplish this prior. I did not have this set up prior to my move. However, I was scoping out the employment opportunity for my field and had initiated the application process.
5. Childcare
If you have younger kids, this will be very necessary. Start to review what facilities are available to you and compare pricing, features and which is the right fit for you.
6. New Doctors
Before you leave, see if you can get medical records onto a disk or thumb drive. This will allow for a smoother transition in care. I did this for my kids because I wanted to be sure their vaccination records were readily available (also something needed for childcare/school).
7. Car Insurance
You will need to update your car insurance company and let them know about the move. Depending on the agency and state, they may or may not cover you in your new location. Also, be mindful of possible cost increase/decrease for budgeting purposes.
8. License and registration (ugh, DMV)
There’s no avoiding it, you will need to look into the state process for getting new tags (license plates) for your vehicles and updating your registration. This will require time & money. But then- it’s official, right!
9. Address change….for everything.
There is the obvious change with the USPS when moving. There are also a lot of other places that you will need to change over as well including: personal bank accounts, Credit Cards, any subscriptions you have and really important-any online shopping accounts that store your address (yes I sent an order to my old house ☹).
10. Register to Vote
The urgency on this one will depend on the time of the year. I of course moved right before a presidential election, so this was a priority. Look up your county’s process for instruction on this.
Bonus – State Quirk’s
Taxes
Check out what the state taxes are for budgeting purposes. Including Sales tax on your purchases and if there are any income taxes held on your pay.
Alcohol Regulation
This is just if you enjoy a beverage or 5 from time to time. Some states only allow sale of wine & spirits at regulated state stores and malt beverages through beer distributors (I see you snooty PA), while others have alcoholic beverages at Walmart for your convenience.
I also could not finish this article without stressing creating a budget. Planning your finances for the move is a critical step to ensure you have the funds to make your move and sustain during the transition.
And there you have it, 10 items to review for your move out of state. If you are thinking about a move like this, remember it can be done. Just take it one step at a time. Different emotions will arise throughout the journey- fear of the unknown in a new location; sadness to be leaving people behind; excitement & joy to accomplish a new goal! That is all normal. Embrace it. Follow your plan. And enjoy the journey!
