List of Things to Do Before Moving Out of State

Moving out of state is a big step. You might decide to move out of state for work purposes, school purposes, or for cheaper living. Whatever the reason, the moving process is grueling. You not only have to make sure that your personal items make it to their destination but you have to make sure all your legal paperwork and documents are in order. This is a big step that takes careful planning. Below is a list of things that you should do before moving out of state.

1. Save up enough money for at least three months of rent and living expenses. Doing this will provide you security in case you have a difficult time finding a job. Ideally, you would want to have a job all lined up for you when you move into your new state, but this is not always possible.

2. Check with the courts- If you have partial custody of your children or if the other parent has visitation with the children you might need to go in front of the judge to gain permission to move out of state with them.

3. Set a deadline for moving and settling in- this will allow you to complete things on your list in a timely fashion.

4. Before moving anywhere you should go and visit the area where you would like to move. Check out the atmosphere and the people. Walk around the neighborhood, visit the stores and library, and talk to the people. After visiting the area just once you might find it helpful to visit the neighborhood multiple times or maybe even stay a weekend.

If you find that you like the area you should start compiling a list of schools in the area for your children (if you have children) and a list of companies (for possible employment.) If you are relocating due to a job then you needn't worry about compiling a list of possible employers. When checking out the area, take notice of public transportation. Is it available and s easily accessible? If you depend on public transportation, you don't want to live in an area where transportation is 45 minutes away from your home.

5. Secure an Apartment -If you have not purchased a home you should begin to look for apartment openings to rent r near the area you would like to live. You cannot move without the apartment so be sure to secure the apartment.

6. Visit the schools and companies- visit the potential schools for your children and find out the necessary forms you will need to enter your child into the school. While you are at the school see if you can get a feel of the environment. Is it a place you feel comfortable sending your child? Pick up school and employment applications to take back with you to fill out.

7. Start packing and throwing stuff away- you should start this process when you are certain that you will be moving.

8. Research moving companies - find the companies that offer the best rates and if you plan to move yourself you will need to find places where you can rent a truck.

9. Make pet traveling arrangements- moving out of state requires traveling for a distance. How will you travel with your pets to ensure that they arrive in their new home? You don't want your pets to arrive at the new home before you. If you plan to have your pet travel by air, you will most likely need a health certificate issued by the vet. These health certificates usually need to be dated within 30 days of the travel date. So time is of essence.

Somewhere in between be sure to drop off and mail those applications for school and employment. Be sure that your contact information is correct; you might have to use a cell phone for a contact number. It is also a good idea to attach your resume to your employment application. You should start doing this 3-5 months before you actually move. Be prepared to travel back to that state for job interviews.

10. Obtain copies of your health and legal documents- for your children you will most likely need a copy of their immunizations, birth certificate, social security cards and dental records. If you plan on attending school yourself you will need copies of your personal information as well. If you have custody of your children you want to be sure to obtain copies of the order. All important documents should be copied and stored in a safe folder or container. If you have pets you will also need to obtain copies of their vaccinations and certificates for the new vet.

11. Disconnect utility service Notify utility companies, of your move so that you can disconnect your service. Discontinue any services such as paper subscriptions, and mail. You will need to notify the post office and proper people of your new address so that your mail does not get sent to your old address in your old state. If you have prescriptions mailed to you, you should be sure to cancel them and notify company of your new address.

12. Update your contact information- be sure to let the proper persons know of your new address and phone number , this goes for credit card companies, friends, and relatives etc....

13. Contact utility companies- in your new state so that you can have the proper services turned on before moving in to your new place. You'll need to contact the electric, heat, and Cable Company and other services that you might need. You should have this done at least a week before moving in.

Lastly, take a deep breath. You can do it.