So, you packed up your whole life, found a new job, and moved to a new place? We’ve been there. iStorage has helped countless families move to a new state with our accessible storage facilities. Helping all those people is why we know the common complaints about moving. A big complaint on that list is not properly planning for AFTER the move. Wherever it is that you are moving, there are a few things to do after you move to a new state.
Get Utilities Set Up In Your New State
This is something you probably should have handled prior to the move, but be sure that all your services are up and running. The last thing you want is to arrive in your new home, and finding that there is no hot water when you go to take a shower or no water at all! When you move to a new state, make sure to set up the following utilities in your name:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Sewer
- Internet
- Cable TV
- Security systems
- Tash collection
Check Your Expensive Items After the Big Move
If you had to move something like a stove, dishwasher, washer or dryer make sure it was not damaged in the move. Run a test cycle on them if you can to make sure that they all work. This is especially important if the mover prepared your appliances for your move, and if you got moving insurance there might be a time limit on claims. These being the big-ticket items makes them the first things that you should check.
Register for School or Daycare in Your New State
This probably should have set up prior to moving, but sometimes these things happen fast. Be sure to find a school for your kids, whether it be online or in-person. The earlier you can register them, the better. The same goes for sports, theatre, and other after-school activities. If you’re moving for a new job, you might also consider daycare or babysitting service in case you have to work often in the beginning.
Visit the DMV After Moving to a New State
On top of the list of things to do when moving to a new state is to visit the DMV. At the DMV, you can register your vehicle, get an in-state license and make sure your car passes emissions tests. If you moved out of state, be sure to get new plates, tags, and update your insurance. Cover all your bases, and be sure that you can roll around legally!
Register to Vote After Moving to a New State
On top of the list of things to do when moving to a new state is to register to vote. It is important to remain engaged with the community, and taking an active role in the local levels of politics is a good way to start. Besides, how can you manage to someday be elected President of Earth without first being elected to the lofty position of County Treasurer? Even if that isn’t your goal, it is still good to get out and vote on the issues that matter to you, especially at the local level.
Get Connected with New Friends In Your State
Get a subscription to community newsletters or magazines, this will allow you to stay up-to date on major community events and will pay dividends for finding new friends in your new home. You can also meet people who share your interests with websites like MeetUp. Even if you already have a few friends in the area, what harm comes from making a couple more?
Furnish and Decorate Your Home
Now for the fun part. Decide how you want to decorate your new digs. Maybe you want some cozy minimal bedroom decor or maybe you finally got that game room you’ve always wanted? Whatever your style, iStorage can help. Our storage units are affordable, safe, and clean. Many families store their items in our facilities while moving into their new homes to help minimize clutter. Talk to an iStorage expert today to learn how we can help!
What To Do After Moving to a New State
Moving is hard and does come with a lot of challenges, both before and after you manage to make it to your destination. Be sure that you have prepared everything that you need to so your move can go as smoothly as possible.
Check out more moving tips & tricks on our blog:
Originally published on 07/09/2018. Updated on 3/16/2021.