How easy is it moving to a new state? Some will say not at all. Moving to a new state can be easy if you prepare and plan ahead. Don’t let the overwhelming thought of moving keep you from getting excited about your new home. Here are 6 six tips that will make your next move go smoother.

I moved to Florida and then back up to North Carolina and moving the second time was not as stressful as the first because I kept the following in mind and made a plan of action.

 

DO YOUR RESEARCH:

I know you spend most of your day on your smartphone anyway so this one should be easy. Research neighborhoods. This will save you so much time for when you actually start looking for places to live. Don’t forget to research restaurants, bars, and local businesses as well. My favorite way of doing this is following online publications or bloggers/influencers from the new city you’re moving to.

This can be easily done by searching hashtags on Instagram relevant to your new city. Websites like Eater and Thrillist also provide guides and restaurants to any city you search for.

Maybe your favorite neighborhood doesn’t have a grocery store in walking distance but the neighborhood next to it does. When it comes to looking for apartments websites like Zillow and Hotpads will become your best friend in mapping out what will be nearby. Cities like New York also have websites like Naked Apartment and Street Easy.

FIND A JOB:

Unless you’re prepared to be unemployed for a while of course. Start looking for jobs up to 2 months in advance. When I first moved to Miami I lied on my resume and put a Florida address on it so when they called me for an interview I got on the next flight out to be there that same week (It worked for me, may not work for you). It may also work to be honest with employers and let them know of your plans to move and potentially showing proof that you actually are moving to their city. Websites like Indeed, Linkedin, Craigslist will be helpful in finding a job.

If you don’t have a job lined up be prepared to….

HAVE MONEY:

Unfortunately, you can’t move without money. When I moved to Miami I had to have first months rent, last months rent, AND deposit (same amount as rent) before moving into my apartment. When your dealing with Miami (or any major city) rent you could be paying anywhere from $5000 to $10,000 to move in depending on the apartment you decide to rent.

I highly recommend using U-Box containers to move. When I moved back to North Carolina – I had a whole apartment full of stuff. We packed everything up in two boxes that U-haul dropped off and it was sent right back out when we were done. From Miami to Charlotte our things took about 2 weeks to arrive. The costs for the U-Box were about $1,600. If you have the time and money, I would recommend doing this as it saves you the headache of driving long hours, driving a truck, and being responsible for anything other than suitcases.

LABEL THE IMPORTANT STUFF SEPARATELY: 

Things like your birth certificate, social security card, passport, etc should be put together in a safe place and a place that you will remember. You should also make them easily accessible so that you’re not searching for them once you have officially moved. I actually lost my passport when I moved back to North Carolina and it was my fault for not putting it in my purse or backpack.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS:

What I mean is, have your power, cable, wifi, etc all set up for your move-in date or before. Find out who your service providers are in the area before moving and call around and get quotes. Also, remember to change your address BEFORE moving. It may take the post office a couple of weeks to officially change your address so you want to make sure that all of your mail is forwarded. Also, it’s best to start packing as soon as possible! Moving is a stressful process so the sooner you start packing the more prepared you will start to feel.

SELL YOUR THINGS IN ADVANCE:

When dealing with moving, there’s a lot of money involved. You want to make sure you have exhausted all of your income options. If you’re moving by plane – selling your belongings may make your life easier while putting a little extra in your pocket. Websites like Craigslist and eBay will help you sell that old couch or random lamp you won’t need anymore. Alternatively, you can also post things up on Facebook or if you don’t need the money or need to get rid of something just donate it to GoodWill.

Needless to say, moving is a tough job for anyone but with these six tips I hope that your moving transition goes a little smoother than before.

Until next time! 

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