You might be planning a move to another state, or maybe you just found out it’s happening. Either way, your mind is already racing with details: Where will you live? How will you get everything there? What about jobs, schools, or simply adjusting to a brand-new place?
Whether you’re relocating solo, moving with a partner, raising a family, or traveling with pets, the process can feel huge. At National Van Lines, we’ve helped thousands of people make successful long-distance moves for nearly a century. This guide will give you handy visuals and tips so you can break the process down into clear, manageable steps.
What Factors Should I Consider Before My Move?
Before you start filling boxes, take a step back and picture your day-to-day life in your new state. The logistics of a move matter, but so does how you’ll live once you arrive. A little research now can save you from surprises later (from unexpected taxes to a climate you’re not ready for) and can help you make choices that fit your lifestyle and long-term goals.
- Cost of living and housing prices: Compare both city averages and specific neighborhoods. Prices for rent, groceries, and utilities can vary dramatically.
- Job market and career opportunities: If one partner is moving for work, the other may need to job hunt. Research local industries and look for networking groups you can join before arriving.
- Taxes, weather, and climate: State income taxes, property taxes, and sales tax can affect your budget. Factor in weather-related costs, from heating in snowy states to hurricane prep along the coast.
- Schools, healthcare, and community resources: Families with children may focus on school quality. Others may prioritize healthcare providers, internet access, or hobby-friendly facilities.
Pro tip: Apps like Facebook Groups, Meetup, LinkedIn, and Reddit can help you get a feel for your new community before you move.
Once you’ve weighed these factors, you’ll have a clearer sense of what to expect and how to prioritize the rest of your move. Think of it as building the blueprint for your relocation: The stronger the foundation, the smoother every step that follows.
What Are My Legal and Administrative Must-Dos?
Every move comes with official tasks. Completing them early keeps your transition smooth.
- If moving internationally: Check your passport’s expiration date, research visa requirements, and confirm documentation rules with the embassy. Review customs regulations for household goods, pets, and vehicles. Arrange vaccinations or quarantine for animals, and consider international health insurance.
- Review legal agreements and insurance: Renters should notify landlords and request move-out instructions in writing. Homeowners should set up new property coverage. Update auto and health insurance to meet state requirements.
- Change your address: File a change of address with USPS about a week before the move so mail forwarding starts on time. Then update banks, subscriptions, insurance, licenses, and— if applicable— your business records.
- Transfer voter registration and memberships: Some states let you update your voter registration with your driver’s license, while others require a separate form. Transfer or cancel gym, warehouse club, or professional memberships.
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration: Most states require updates within 10–30 days. Check your new state’s DMV website for required documents and make appointments early.
Completing these steps ahead of time frees you to focus on settling in and exploring your new home.
An Example Pre-Move Prep Timeline
A clear, realistic plan keeps stress low and prevents last-minute chaos. Here’s a sample countdown you can adapt to your own schedule. Feel free to save this handy graphic or take a screenshot for your convenience:
Special Considerations for Different Households
No move is one-size-fits-all. A long distance move for a family of four will look a lot different from a single person’s move. Here are some common moving situations, and some recommendations for how to close the chapter on your old home:
Families with kids: Request school records early, schedule goodbyes, and pack a “comfort kit” with familiar items.
Couples without kids: Choose a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Think about what kind of walkability, dining, nightlife, and commute times will be available for both partners.
Single movers: Research safety and transportation. Plan for help on moving day and look for classes or meetups to make friends.
Pet owners: Update vaccinations, gather vet records, and arrange comfortable transport. Create a quiet space for them in your new home.
Multi-generational households: Ensure the home has enough bedrooms, accessibility, and privacy. Consider spaces for shared meals and cultural traditions.
Day of Move and Arrival Checklist
Moving day can feel like the finish line, but it’s really the start of a new chapter. Having the right questions prepared in advance can prevent any unexpected stress in your first days:
- Have I checked my house? Social media is full of horror stories about skipping inspections. A thorough check now helps avoid surprise repairs later on.
- Are my utilities running? Confirm power, water, and internet are ready so you’re not unpacking in the dark.
- Do I know where my essentials are? Keep must-haves (like chargers, coffee makers, and clothes) easy to access, especially if your truck arrives later than you do.
- Have I confirmed with movers? Verify delivery dates, payment details, and contact info.
- Have I met my neighbors? Even a quick hello can help you get local tips.
- Is my security in place? Change locks, update codes, and check windows.
- Do I have a plan for pets? Provide a calm space before letting them roam.
- Have I documented the property? Photos protect you in case of insurance or rental disputes.
- Do I know emergency contacts and locations? Identify the nearest hospital, pharmacy, and vet.
Once these essentials are handled, you can take a breath and start enjoying your new surroundings. Whether that means ordering takeout from the nearest pizza place, exploring the local park, or simply collapsing on the couch, you’ll know the important tasks are done. From here, it’s about unpacking at your own pace and letting your new life take shape.
Planning for Success
Moving to another state is a major life shift. In the past, you may have approached a move without much of a plan and learned the hard way what you forgot. Now you have a guide that walks you through every stage so you can feel more prepared and less overwhelmed. At National Van Lines, we’ve helped countless families move— and we’re confident this checklist will help you turn a big challenge into a series of manageable steps.
As you plan with these steps in mind, your move will likely feel less like a scramble and more like the exciting opportunity it is. Every step you take now is one less thing to worry about when you arrive at your new home— wherever that may end up being.
You’ve got a basic guide to help you plan the logistics for your big upcoming move. But, what about getting an accurate long distance moving quote? Read our blog to learn more about what to expect when you get quoted by a moving company.
