Moving to another state checklist: everything to do, week by week

8 weeks before: plan and book

• Set a budget. Interstate moves are priced by weight and distance, so check typical costs for your route on our state to state pages.
• Get at least three written estimates after an in-home or video survey.
• Check every mover’s USDOT number on the FMCSA website. Any mover that crosses a state line must have one.
• Decide how you will move: full-service movers, a moving container or a rental truck.
• Start researching your new state: income tax, car insurance rates, schools and neighborhoods.

• Cost of moving to another state, by route
• How to choose a long-distance moving company

6 weeks before: book and declutter

• Book your mover and get the estimate, order for service and delivery window in writing.
• Ask for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate so the price can’t rise at delivery.
• Declutter. Every pound you don’t move saves money on an interstate move.
• Decide how your car gets there: drive it, ship it with an auto transporter, or sell it.
• If you rent, give notice to your landlord according to your lease.

4 weeks before: records and services

• Request copies of medical, dental, vet and school records, or ask for them to be sent to new providers.
• Schedule utilities to stop at your old home and start at the new one, including internet.
• Forward your mail with USPS.
• Refill prescriptions, and check whether your pharmacy chain operates in your new state.
• Check your health insurance. A permanent move to a new state can change your plan’s network, and usually qualifies you to pick a new Marketplace plan.
• Start packing rooms you use least.

2 weeks before: confirm everything

• Confirm the moving date, pickup window, delivery window and final price with your mover.
• Update your address with your bank, employer, credit cards and subscriptions.
• Plan the trip: route, hotels and where pets will ride.
• Use up food and cleaning supplies. Movers won’t carry flammables, paint or propane.

Moving week and moving day

• Pack an essentials bag: documents, medication, chargers, clothes and toiletries for the days before delivery.
• Keep important documents, cash and jewelry with you, not on the truck.
• Check the inventory list and read the bill of lading before you sign. Never sign a blank one.
• Interstate movers must give you the FMCSA booklet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”.
• Do a final walk-through of every room and closet.

Sources: FMCSA: Protect Your Move

After you arrive in your new state

1. Driver’s license. Most states require new residents to get a local license within 30 to 90 days. Check your new state’s DMV for the exact deadline and documents.
2. Car registration and title. Register your car in the new state, usually within the same window, and update your car insurance to a policy for that state.
3. Voter registration. Register at your new address so you can vote in the next election.
4. Taxes. You may need to file part-year resident returns in both your old and new state for the year you move.
5. Homeowners or renters insurance. Start a policy for the new home before your belongings arrive.
6. Check the delivery. Note any damage on the delivery receipt, and file claims with your mover in writing. You have 9 months to file a claim for an interstate move.

Sources: USA.gov: Moving checklist · HealthCare.gov: Special Enrollment Period

Frequently asked questions

Get a free moving quote

Takes about 60 seconds. We match you with a licensed moving partner, so you don’t get calls from a dozen companies.

Moving cost calculator · Costs by route