Do some research on the state and town you're moving to. Price apartments and homes, depending on whether you're renting or purchasing. Don't leave this until you get there, as you'll want an idea of how much money you need to set aside ahead of time. Rent prices aren't the same in Las Cruces, New Mexico, as they are in San Diego, California, and you need to make sure your new salary or savings will cover everything. Research the rental or purchasing process in your new state. Some places like California put plenty of weight on a decent credit score, and you're lucky to get away with a deposit of one-month's rent, while apartment complexes in Austin might offer zero deposit on approved credit.
Research your town in depth. Look at maps, read local blogs and magazines and search for schools, organizations, churches and events that will make you feel at home when you get there. Study the surrounding area and the state's major metropolitan areas or sites of interest. When you're feeling homesick in your new suburb town, you may just be an hour-drive from a bustling city where you can spend the day and refresh. Diving into the state's local culture can help alleviate culture shock or homesickness as well.
Know exactly which belongings you're taking, which you're selling and if you're putting anything into storage. You can't get accurate estimates on moving services or truck rentals until you have a good idea of how much cargo you're taking with you. Decide if you're driving, having your vehicle towed with the movers, or are selling your vehicle all together, if you're moving to an urban center with mass transit. Consider wear and tear on your vehicle per the mileage, as well as the cost of gas. Also, you can't put a monetary amount on how stressed or relaxed you may be driving your own vehicle or a moving truck to another state. You may not want to deal with any of it, or you might have the patience and driving experience to pull the truck and two your vesicles, as well.
Know in advance what you need to become a resident of your new state. You'll find that getting a credit union membership, health and social service benefits and certain civic programs require proof of residency. Typically, this involves getting a driver's license of state ID. Research the motor vehicle department's website for application instructions and fees. If appointments are available, make one ahead of time to save you from staying in line all morning. Research what the cost for vehicle registration is for a new vehicle just entering the state. If you wait longer than a certain period, you may be penalized for it, and the registration can cost more. Make sure you bring all necessary information with you to your new state, like your car's electronic title number, if you're still making payments on it.
