Wanderlust World Wanderlust World If you decide to move yourself, you need to start planning as soon as you have a moving date. Budget, U-Haul and Penske are the three big rental companies that specialize in do-it-yourself moves with a variety of truck sizes and options to best suit your needs. These companies also sell moving accessories and rent helpful tools, such as furniture pads and dollies. According to the professionals at Penske, the best rates and highest availability can be found Sunday through Thursday, and you should make reservations far in advance.
Packing needs to be done correctly to protect all of your valuable belongings. Wardrobe boxes are a very good investment, and provide storage for all of your hanging clothes without wrinkling them. Dishes and other breakables should be wrapped in bubble packaging or blank newsprint and placed in boxes designed for heavy items. Special boxes are also available for electronics, books, and light, bulky items. Label all boxes with a description of the contents and room they are to go in.
Once the truck is loaded, practice turning, parking and backing up in an empty parking lot.
Hiring professionals to pack and move your belongings can be less stressful than moving yourself, although it is usually more costly. Research the moving company thoroughly, and make sure company is bonded and insured. Carefully review all of the paperwork and contracts, especially once unloading is complete, noting any damage to your goods. You should not allow movers to pack or move very expensive or irreplaceable items.
A move to another state is an opportunity to take a road trip and see the sights between your old home and your new home. Take advantage of the time spent traveling, and plan to take breaks at interesting places along the way. Mark rest stops on the map, and take a few minutes to stretch your legs every 100 miles or so.
If you are traveling to your new state by air, plan ahead to make sure your transportation needs are taken care of once you arrive.
Arrange to have the utilities turned on in your home the day you arrive. Obtain a local map so you can find your way around town. Local libraries are helpful resources for finding activities, groups and events in your new community.
Check with the state's Department of Motor Vehicles to see when and how you need to switch your car title, registration and driver's license. Every state has different requirements, so check to see what you will need.
In no time, your new state will feel like home, and the upheaval of the move will be a distant memory.