What to Expect When Moving Across State Lines: A Step-by-Step Guide

Interstate Moving For Dummies 

Moving across state lines is a complex process, and sometimes partnering with a drayage company can help streamline the logistics. You don’t have to know it all. Brushing up on the basics here will help you save money and stress as you go. The rules and costs involved differ from moving within the same state, so you’ll need to approach things differently when planning the move. Don’t worry—we break things down step by step for you.

Step 1: Create a Moving Timeline

An interstate moving involves more coordination than a local one, so starting early is important. It is recommended to start the planning and prep at least 8 to 12 weeks before your actual move date. This gives you plenty of time to plan, book your mover, and pack everything without feeling rushed.

    • Create a Moving Timeline: List all the tasks you need to accomplish by date and owner responsible and assign realistic deadlines for everything. Break the tasks into manageable smaller tasks. You need to have on there: finding a moving company, purging the excess things you own, organizing utilities, and travel arrangements.

  • Budget: Moving state to state is expensive, especially if using movers to get things done right. Estimate your moving costs and set a realistic budget after checking a few quotes with your real data. Don’t forget to budget for packing materials, insurance, travel expenses, and more.
 

Step 2: Book Your Movers

Hiring the pro movers or doing the move DIY is your call. Here’s a list to give you a breakdown of each option.

    • Hiring Professional Movers:
        • Pros: Full-service movers handle all aspects of the move, including packing (if chosen), loading, transporting, and unloading. This option is less physically demanding and more convenient and professional. It’s simple and worry free. 

        • Cons: It’s more expensive, it’s that simple.

        • What to Expect: You will receive binding quotes based on the weight of your goods, the distance, and any extra services you choose.

        • Research Moving Companies: Read real customer reviews, get recommendations, and check the company’s credentials to make sure they are licensed by the Department of Transportation for interstate moves. Make sure they provide insurance coverage for your things.

    • DIY Move with a Rental Truck:
      • Pros: This is a cheaper option if you have less items and are willing to work hard to save. You control the timeline and the budget.

      • Cons: Driving a large moving truck across state lines is stressful. You’ll also have to pack, load, and unload yourself. You will need at least one more pair of helping hands. 

    • What Else:. Be sure to factor in the rental cost, fuel, insurance, and any additional fees like mileage limits,  moving dollies, or extra insurance.
 

Step 3: Downsize ASAP

Everyone knows that the best way to save money and stress during a move is to declutter your home. The more you have to move, the higher your costs will be.

    • Sort Through: Go room by room and decide what you really want to take. Sell, donate, or trash anything you don’t use.

  • Host a Garage Sale: Selling items before the move can help offset some of your expenses.
 

Step 4: Handle Logistics

Before you leave your old home, you’ll need to complete a few things, and 3rd party logistics can help simplify the process:

    • Utilities: Contact your utility providers for gas, water, electric, internet, and whatever other services you have and schedule a disconnection date. At the same time, set up services for your new home in advance so you’re not without anything.

  • Notify Your Post Office: Change your address with the USPS so your mail is forwarded to your new address. 
 

Step 5: Pack Smart

Careful packing means less damage to your things during the long journey. 

    • Use Quality Packing Materials: Invest in solid boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, bubble wrap and tape. Use what you already have like suitcases, laundry baskets, or containers to save on packing materials. Get creative to save. 

    • Go Room by Room: Label each box with the contents and the room it belongs in. This will make the unpacking process easier later on.

    • Packing Plan: Plan out a schedule for when you can pack up certain rooms. Start with the garage and basement to finish up the lesser used items. 

  • Pack for the Road: Pack a “travel bag” of essentials like a change of clothing, toiletries, important documents and more so that you don’t have to unpack immediately upon arrival. Don’t forget a clean sheet set so you can sink into your bed and rest when you arrive.
 

Step 6: Travel Plans For The Family

You’ll need to plan how you’re getting to your new home not just plan for your things to arrive without owners.

    • If You’re Driving: Plan out your route, plan for fun stops, and book hotels if the trip takes more than a day and there is a need. Make sure your car is road-trip ready.

  • If You’re Flying: Book flights in advance and figure out how you’ll get from the airport to your new home. 
 

Step 7: Unpack

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, the real work begins. It’s helpful to pace yourself for the unpack.

    • Inspect Your New Home: Before you start unpacking, check everything is in good condition. If you’re renting, take photos before moving your things in of the condition of the home.

    • Unpack Essentials: Start with the basics and unpack first your, bedding, clothes of the season, and kitchen essentials. This will make your first night or two in your new home more comfortable. The coffee maker should come out first. 

  • Get Settled In: Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood and new local spots. Meet your neighbors and start building your community.
 
 

Step 8: Update Your Registration

When moving across state to state, you need to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration:

    • Driver’s License: Each state has different rules, but most require updating your driver’s license within 30 to 60 days of moving so it will stay valid. This might involve taking a written or driving test if you are unlucky.

    • Car Registration and Insurance: You’ll need to update your car registration and car insurance. 

  • Voter Registration: Don’t forget to register to vote in your new state. You can often do it all online.
 
 

Closing Up That Chapter of Life

Moving across state lines is a big deal. Follow these steps to give yourself a little clarity of what you need to do and when to do it. Be sure to start the process as ahead of time as you can, work organized, give an owner to each task and stay calm. By following these tips, you’ll be sure that you’re prepared for everything from planning and packing to settling into your new home.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How can I safely move fragile objects?

You can wrap these items with extra bubble wrap and put them in a plastic bin with many layers of pillows, towels and more soft items and write “fragile” on top. Let your moving team know what is inside.

 

Is tipping my movers a must?

Yes, even critical. Your moving team are hard workers helping you get from A to B. Tipping between 15-20% is expected by movers and drivers alike is common. Think of it as if you’ve gone to a nice place and left without tipping- not ok. Plan ahead for these costs so you aren’t surprised. Trust me.

 

Why would using a packing service be smart?

Professional packers are not a must, but will work at lightspeed to get all your items packed up safely. While you might get stuck sorting through old junk, they will have your entire home packed up and bubble wrapped in no time. If you are in a time crunch, in the midst of important work projects, or just want to feel like a pro, consider using a packing full service moving option. If you have many expensive and fragile items their service could be a must for you as well.

 

What should I look for in my moving company?

There are many green flags such as transparency and honesty you will find in reputable moving companies. Even if a mover isn’t perfect, what matters most is that they are clear and honest with you that they won’t meet your expectations. Honesty over price is always important. Use trusted and vetted movers for your home.

 

What do I do if there is a gap in time between moving out of my old place and into my new place?

Book a mover with full storage options just made for your situation. Maybe you found the perfect new home, but have a month in between, or maybe you just crave that Mexico vacation you never took. No matter the reason, just let us know and we will help you figure out a moving plan that makes sense.