Licence info: CPUC #191536 CA #491814
At Cali Moving & Storage, we've helped countless folks make smooth transitions to their new homes. Our team knows exactly what it takes to make your move hassle-free, and we're ready to be your go-to partner during this exciting change.
Let’s face it – moving to another state can be pretty overwhelming. But with some solid planning, your interstate move doesn’t have to be a headache.
We’ve put together this practical checklist to guide you through your out-of-state move step by step – whether you’re moving for a new job, to be closer to family, or just for a change of scenery.
Before you start packing, get familiar with your new area. Check out the cost of living, job opportunities, and school quality if you have kids. Look up the nearest grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and parks. For detailed info, check out our guide on the best neighborhoods in San Diego. The more you know about your new home, the more comfortable you’ll feel when you arrive.
Moving costs can add up quickly, so create a budget that covers all the bases. Include quotes from moving companies, packing materials, and travel costs. Learn more about how much movers cost in San Diego to plan better. Map out a timeline that works backward from your move-in date, giving yourself plenty of time for each task. Trust us – you’ll want more time than you think!
Make a list of everyone who needs to know about your move. Tell your boss, HR department, your kids’ schools, and your landlord if you’re renting. The earlier you start these conversations, the smoother things will go when moving day arrives.
Moving is the perfect excuse to finally tackle that clutter! Go through your stuff room by room and decide what’s worth taking to your new home. Interstate moves are priced by weight, so the less you take, the more you’ll save. Plus, starting fresh with less stuff feels amazing.
You’ll need sturdy boxes in different sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and packing paper. Don’t skimp on quality here – cheap boxes can collapse and damage your belongings. Your local moving company might sell supplies or include them in your moving package.
Make unpacking easier by labeling everything clearly. Write both the room and a quick summary of what’s inside on each box. Something like “KITCHEN – Pots and Baking Dishes” works great. Consider using colored stickers for each room to make sorting even faster.
Be ruthless about what makes the cut for your move. That couch that barely fit in your current living room? Sell it. Clothes you haven’t worn in a year? Donate them. Broken appliances you’ve been meaning to fix? Time to say goodbye. Selling unwanted items can add some cash to your moving budget too!
Some things need special attention. Grandma’s antique mirror, your guitar collection, and large electronics all require careful handling. Talk to your movers about their experience with similar items. For valuable or sentimental pieces, consider getting custom crating for extra protection.
Book your movers early – at least 8 weeks ahead for an interstate move. Get quotes from several companies and check their reviews and credentials. Once you’ve chosen your mover, stay in touch and confirm all details a week before the big day, including arrival times and contact numbers.
Nobody wants to arrive at their new place to find no electricity or water! Research utility providers in your new area and schedule service start dates for the day before you arrive. This includes electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash service.
Make a list of all your current services and decide whether to cancel or transfer each one. Schedule shut-off dates that align with your move-out, but don’t cut things too close – you still need electricity until the last box is loaded!
Visit the USPS website to fill out a change of address form about two weeks before moving. Then update your address with banks, credit cards, subscription services, and anywhere else that sends you mail or deliveries. This prevents the hassle of missed bills or packages going to your old address.
Call your doctors, dentist, and other healthcare providers to let them know you’re moving. Ask them to transfer your records to your new providers or get copies for yourself. Don’t forget about prescriptions – have your doctor send them to a pharmacy near your new home, or stock up before moving day.
Pack a separate box or suitcase with everything you’ll need right away – toiletries, a few changes of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, phone chargers, medications, and important documents. After a long day of moving, you’ll be grateful to have these essentials easily accessible.
Before you hand over the keys, check every nook and cranny of your old place. Open all cabinets, look under appliances, check the attic, basement, and garage. Take photos of the empty property (especially if you’re a renter hoping to get your deposit back).
On moving day, be available to answer questions and provide direction. Show the movers any items needing special care. Have their contact information handy, and make sure they have yours. Offer water or snacks – happy movers take better care of your stuff!
Don’t try to unpack everything at once – that’s a recipe for burnout! Focus on setting up bedrooms first so everyone has a comfortable place to sleep. Then tackle the bathroom and kitchen basics. Having a functional shower and coffee maker makes everything else more manageable!
Once the boxes are under control, get out and explore! Find your new favorite coffee shop and introduce yourself to neighbors. Check your new state’s requirements for updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration – most states require this within 30-90 days of moving.
A successful out-of-state move comes down to good planning and staying organized. With this checklist as your guide, you can tackle your interstate relocation with confidence instead of chaos. Breaking the process down into manageable steps makes the whole experience less stressful and lets you focus on the exciting adventures ahead.
At Cali Moving & Storage, we’re committed to making your move as smooth as possible. Our experienced team handles interstate moves every day, and we know exactly what it takes to get your belongings safely from Point A to Point B.
Ready to get your move rolling? Reach out to our team at Cali Moving & Storage today for a free quote. Let’s make your next chapter a great one – starting with a stress-free move!
