If you’re planning on moving cross-country for a new life, there are a few things you need to do before packing up and hitting the road. It’s important to plan ahead of time so that the move goes smoothly. Let’s take a look at the important things that you should be doing.
1. Take Care of Legal Issues
If you have any legal issues, such as being on probation or dealing with non-payment issues, you’ll need to take care of them before moving. Depending on the type of legal issue, it’s vital to check with a lawyer or even a probation officer.
For instance, if you turn down an offer of six months in jail and accept probation, you might get a sentence of longer than six months if you violate your probation. Violating probation can be as simple as traveling to another state, so you’ll need to check with a probation officer before your move.
2. Organize Your Financial Affairs
Before moving cross-country, it’s important to make sure you have your finances in order. This includes making sure all of your bills are paid on time, and any outstanding debts are taken care of. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure you have enough money saved up for moving expenses and to cover your needs during the transition into your next stage of life.
For help with budgeting and saving, you may want to consider working with a financial planner or accountant. They can help you plan your budget, so you don’t face financial distress.
3. Gather Important Documents
Before your move, collect all your important documents, including birth certificates, Social Security cards, driver’s licenses, proof of insurance, and other important paperwork. Not only will these documents be necessary once you arrive at your new home, but they can also help you speed up the process of getting settled in your new location.
If you’ve lost any of these documents, make sure to get replacements before you move. This way, you won’t have any trouble getting your new life off the ground in your new city.
4. Pack Smartly
One of the most important aspects of a successful cross-country move is packing smartly. Make sure you pack items that you’ll need right away, such as tools, toiletries, and kitchen items. You should also plan to bring clothing for any season that could hit your new city.
By packing smartly and only bringing what you need, you can save yourself significant amounts of money on moving costs. Additionally, ensure you’ve stored away any items you won’t be using for your move. According to IBIS World, the mobile storage service market in the U.S. in 2022 was worth $10 billion. With mobile storage services easily available, you can rent a unit for your items without worrying about them during your move.
5. Schedule Moving Services
According to OnCue, professional moving services help with 650,000 moves every year in the United States. Professional movers can handle the packing, loading, and transporting of your belongings to your new home.
Not only will they ensure everything is transported safely, but they can also help you save time and money. Plus, most moving services offer insurance for your belongings in case something unexpected happens during the move.
6. Prepare for Your Pets
Your move will also require special preparation for any pets you have. This includes ensuring your pet has all necessary shots and check-ups before traveling with you. Additionally, speak with their vet about sedation medications that can help keep your pet calm during the move.
Lastly, purchase ID tags for them with your new address and contact information in case they get lost along the way. By taking care of these key tasks before moving cross-country, you can make the transition smoother and less stressful for you and your pets.
Once you’ve completed all these essential tasks, you’ll be ready to start your new life across the country! With proper planning and preparation, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into your new home. Best of luck!
