Your Must-Have Moving to a New State Checklist

Moving to a new state is a bit like setting out on a road trip with no GPS—you’ve got a general idea of where you're headed, but there are a lot of detours and decisions along the way. 

It's exciting, sure, but also a bit challenging.

But here's the thing: more people are hitting the road, packing up, and relocating to new states than ever before. 

In fact, nearly 44% of companies reported an increase in permanent voluntary relocations, indicating a growing trend of individuals choosing to move without a secure job.

That's why moving to a new state is more than just changing addresses—it's about adjusting to a whole new lifestyle.

However, no matter your reason, there’s one thing for sure: planning is key. 

We’ll share practical tips to help you move with confidence, whether it’s sorting your finances, researching your new city, or avoiding common mistakes.

Step 1: Essential Pre-Move Checklist

Use this state-to-state moving checklist to guide you through the essential steps leading up to the big move.

• Research Your New State and City: Look into housing prices, utilities, job opportunities, climate, and transportation options in your new location.
• Create a Moving Budget:  Moving costs can vary, ranging from local moves ($800-$2,500) to  long-distance moves ($2,200-$10,500), full-service moves ($2,300-$9,000), and DIY moves ($600-$5,300).
• Declutter and Organize: Sort through your belongings and decide what to sell, donate, or discard to make your move easier.
• Choose a Reputable Moving Company: Gather quotes from movers, check reviews, and verify their credentials and insurance coverage.
• Create a Moving File: Keep all essential moving documents in one place to stay organized.
• Transfer Professional Licenses and Notify Schools: Ensure any professional licenses are transferred and your children's school records are updated.
• Plan Your Commute: Research local routes, public transportation options, and make sure your car registration is up to date.
• Order Moving Supplies: Stock up on boxes, packing materials, and the necessary tools for furniture disassembly.
• Research Employer Relocation Assistance: See if your employer helps with moving costs, housing, or relocation resources.

Step 2: Legal & Administrative Checklist

Now that you’ve prepared for the logistics of your move, it’s time to focus on the legal and administrative tasks.

These steps will help you settle in smoothly once you arrive in your new state.

• Establishing Residency: Settle legal residency for tax purposes, voting, and accessing services in your new state.
• Tax Implications: Understand your new state’s tax rules to avoid surprises with income, property, and sales tax.
• Change of Address: Submit a change of address with USPS and update your details with banks and services.
• IRS Notification: Notify the IRS of your address change and review your new state’s tax rules.
• Pet Regulations: Ensure your pets meet any state-specific vaccination or licensing requirements.
• Notifying Your Landlord (For Renters): Inform your landlord as required and arrange for your security deposit.

Step 3: Health & Medical Checklist

Your health and medical care should be a top priority during a move. These steps will ensure you're covered in your new state.

• Transfer Medical Records: Request your medical records and transfer them to your new healthcare providers.
• Update Health Insurance Coverage: Notify your health insurance provider to ensure continuous coverage in your new state.
• Find New Healthcare Providers: Research and choose new doctors, dentists, and specialists who accept your insurance.

Step 4: Packing and Moving Checklist

Packing can feel like the most overwhelming part of the move. But with some preparation, you’ll be organized and ready for moving day. Use this checklist for a long-distance move to help you stay on track.

• Declutter Before Packing: Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use.
• Label Boxes Clearly: Label each box with its contents and the room to which it belongs. This makes unpacking easier.
• Save Moving Receipts: Keep track of all moving-related expenses for potential deductions or reimbursements.

Step 5: Three Days Before Moving Checklist

As the move approaches, focus on finalizing preparations to ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Follow these moving tips  for out-of-state to make your move as stress-free as possible.

• Conduct a Final Walk-Through: Double-check your old home to ensure everything is packed and nothing is left behind.
• Prepare Essentials Bag: Pack important items like medications, toiletries, and clothes for the first few days.
• Confirm with Movers: Double-check the moving details with your movers to ensure everything is on track.
• Charge Devices: Ensure all devices are fully charged for the moving day.
• Prep the New Place: Start preparing your new home by cleaning and setting up utilities.

Step 6: The Day Before Moving Checklist

The day before your move is a busy one, but completing these tasks will make moving day much easier. Follow these out-of-state moving guide tips to stay organized.

• Complete Packing: Finish packing up everything, including last-minute essentials.
• Defrost the Fridge: Clean and defrost your fridge to prevent messes and bad smells.
• Prepare Snacks and Drinks: Stock up on snacks and drinks to keep you energized on a moving day.
• Lay Out Clothes for Moving Day: Set aside comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for the big day.
• Final Check of Utilities: Confirm that utilities have been turned off at your old place and set up at your new one.
• Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Rest up—moving day is just around the corner!

Step 7: Moving Day Tasks Checklist

Moving day can be hectic, but these tasks will help ensure that everything goes smoothly. Here’s your final relocation checklist to stay on track.

• Wake Up and Prepare: Start your day early and make sure everything is in order before the movers arrive.
• Final Check of Rooms: Walk through your old home one last time to ensure nothing is left behind.
• Load the Moving Truck: Help load your items and ensure everything is securely packed.
• Secure Items in the Truck: Double-check that everything is packed securely to prevent shifting during transport.
• Double-Check the Old Place: Verify that everything is packed and locked up before you leave.
• Depart for the New State: Begin your journey to your new home, either with the moving team or on your own.
• Unload at New Home: Once you arrive, direct the movers to unload your items into the right rooms for easy unpacking.

Step 8: Post-Move Tasks Checklist

After your move, these post-move tasks will help you settle into your new state and feel at home. Follow these steps to make the moving process to a new state smooth.

• Set up Internet and Utilities: Ensure your internet and utilities are set up before you move in.
• Find New Healthcare Providers: Research and establish new healthcare providers in your new area.
• Enroll Your Children in School: Contact your local school district and enroll them.
• Register Your Car and Update Plates: After establishing residency in your new state, you must update your car registration and get new plates.
• Voter Registration: Register to vote in your new state to participate in local and national elections.
• Review State Tax Laws: Familiarize yourself with state tax laws, as they may differ significantly from your previous state.
• Meet Your Neighbors and Join Community Groups: Get to know your new neighbors and explore local clubs and activities.
• Explore Your New Area: Familiarize yourself with local grocery stores, restaurants, and attractions.
• Establish Emergency Contacts: Save important emergency numbers and contacts in your phone.
• Hire Local Service Providers: Find reliable professionals for home repairs or services you may need.