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How to Move to Another State, From The Seasoned Professionals

So, you're thinking about moving to a new state? That's pretty exciting stuff! We’ve been there a thousand times and back, moving neighbors and businesses all across Maryland, Virginia, DC, and beyond. While it can be quite an adventure that might be overwhelming at times, with the right planning and research, you can make the experience memorable.

Research Your New Home

Before you start boxing up your belongings, we recommend taking some time to get familiar with your future neighborhood. A bit of homework now can prevent headaches later.

Cost of Living: First, let's talk money. Living costs can differ significantly between states, so it's smart to look into the cost of living, including housing, utilities, taxes, and even what you'll pay at the gas pump. If you're moving somewhere near the city, your everyday expenses might go up more than you expect. You can use online resources like Numbeo or check out local government websites to compare costs.
Research Local Neighborhoods: Next, think about what kind of area suits you best. Do you want to be in the city close to restaurants and nightlife? Or are you after a quieter, family-friendly suburb? It's worth looking into crime stats, school ratings, local amenities, and public transport options. If you can, try to visit in person before moving to get a real feel for the place.
Get to Know the Community: Once you've settled on the area you want to move to, scope out what’s nearby. Where's the closest grocery store? Pharmacy? Shopping center? Doctor's office? This can help you settle down faster, knowing where everything is. We've found that joining local Facebook groups or Nextdoor communities can be great for getting insider tips from people who already live there.

Set A Moving Budget

Just like everything in life, moving costs can add up quickly. Before you jump right into it, do your research to understand how much you need to make your move happen.

Start by Estimating Moving Costs: Do your homework on out-of-state movers. Reach out to at least three different companies for quotes. And remember, not all companies work the same way. Some will charge a flat rate, and others will provide an all-inclusive hourly rate. You might find that your quotes are different amongst each company you reach out to, so it’s always important to ask about fees for packing, stairs, long carries, or temporary storage. If you plan on doing the move yourself, you need to factor in your truck rental, gas, insurance, and mileage. Not to mention potential damages if things are packed improperly.
Housing Costs: Beyond your monthly rent or mortgage payment, be prepared to cover other housing costs like your security deposit, home inspection, or closing costs. At times, landlords require renters to pay the last month’s rent in advance, so that’s another thing you should consider.
Packing Supplies: People often don’t consider the cost of packing supplies (unless you have 50+ boxes lying around). Packing supplies can cost you anywhere from $200-400 for a two-bedroom home to over $2,000 for a 4+ bedroom home. Some moving companies will provide packing materials for free, so make sure you ask before you go out and buy your own.

Choosing an Out-of-State Mover

Do Your Homework: Before reaching out to the first mover you find online, take time to research the company. After making sure that the mover does do out-of-state moves, check if they're properly licensed. See what customers are saying about them online, and look them up on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) websites.
Get an In-Person Quote: While it may be more convenient to get a moving quote over the phone, it’s not foolproof. Over the phone, it’s harder for your mover to assess the volume of items you plan on moving, especially if you’re in a bigger home. It’s always better to have someone come out and look at your belongings so they have a better idea of what you’re working with. This way, you can get the most accurate moving quote.
Shop Around: Prices can be all over the place depending on the movers you reach out to, so get at least three quotes. If one comes back significantly higher or lower than the others, don’t hesitate to ask why. We’ve seen cases where a client gets a very low estimate for their move but ends up paying double by the end of it because of hidden fees they weren’t aware of. Just be cautious with the quotes you're receiving, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Ask About Storage: If your new place isn't ready when you arrive, you might need somewhere to keep your stuff temporarily. Some moving companies even offer storage options of their own.

Stock up on Packing Supplies

Packing is a big job, no doubt about it. It's probably the most time-consuming part of moving, so give yourself plenty of time to get organized and pack smart.

Do your movers provide packing supplies? Some moving companies can do the packing for you and provide all the boxes, tape, and materials you need. If you're more of a DIY person, see if they let you pick up packing supplies to do the packing yourself. Home Depot, Lowes, and Uhaul, amongst a few others, let you purchase packing materials, but this can get pretty pricey…
For a 2-bedroom home, think about 40 boxes (that'll cost you around $200-$400)
For a 3-bedroom place, you're looking at about 85 boxes ($550-$750)
Got 4 or more bedrooms? You might need 125+ boxes (which could run you $2,000+)

When doing your research on movers, this is an important piece not to leave out. You can potentially save hundreds on packing supplies by choosing a mover that provides them for free.

Now’s the Time to Declutter: Before you start throwing everything in boxes, take a minute to declutter. The less stuff you move, the easier (and cheaper) your move will be. Why not donate or sell things you don't use anymore? You could even have a garage sale or list some items on Facebook Marketplace. It's a great way to lighten your load and maybe make a few bucks too!
Start Packing Early: We can never say this loud enough! Start packing as soon as you can. Trust me, it always takes longer than you think! Begin with stuff you don't use every day, like off-season clothes, books, and decorations. Save your everyday essentials for last.

Update Important Documents

Change Your Address: This one's easy to forget but super important. Let the post office know you've moved, update your driver's license, and don't forget to tell your bank, credit card companies, and insurance.
Update Your Driver's License and Car Registration: States can be pretty strict about this one. For example, if you move to Maryland, you've got 60 days to register your car. But in Virginia? They only give you 30 days! Check your new state's DMV website to see what their deal is.
Set Up Your Utilities" Nobody wants to arrive at their new place to find there's no electricity! Make sure to disconnect your old utilities and set up new ones for your new home. Think about electricity, water, gas, internet, and even trash collection.
Register to Vote: If you want to have your say in local elections (and you should!), make sure to update your voter registration in your new state.

Making Your New Place Feel Like Home

Get to Know Your Neighborhood: Take a stroll around the block, check out that cute park down the street, or grab a bite at the local diner. It's amazing how quickly you'll start to feel connected when you explore your new surroundings.
Say Hi to Your Neighbors: Don't be shy, introduce yourself! Maybe you'll spot someone watering their plants or walking their dog. A simple "hello" can go a long way. If there's a block party or community event coming up, why not drop by? You might just make some new friends!
Find Your Go-To Spots: Figure out where you'll grab your groceries, pick up prescriptions, or mail packages. It's also smart to know where the nearest hospital is – just in case. Having these basics sorted out will make life so much easier.

Wrapping Up

In short, your out-of-state moving checklist should look something like this:

Research Your New Home
Set A Moving Budget
Choose an Out-of-State Mover
- Secure Storage (if needed)
Stock up on Packing Supplies
- Ask if your mover provides them!
- Now's the time to declutter
Update Your Important Documents
- Update Your Address, Driver's License and Care Registration
- Set up Your Utilities
- Register to Vote