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Moving and Transferring Utilities

A move can test even the most organized person’s skills.  There are many “moving pieces” to keep track of nearing the top of the list is managing utilities.  Ending your current utilities and beginning your new utilities require careful thought and planning.

Here are some tips to make the transition as smooth as possible:

Get Organized

List all of your current utilities in a google doc or on a pad of paper.  It is best to give your current utility companies a two-week notice, and plan for your disconnect date to be a few days after your move to provide a buffer. Start another list of your future utilities and begin researching which utility companies are available at your new home.  You will want to record price quotes and comparison shop if possible.  Internet providers vary from town to town, which will allow a possible comparison pricing opportunity.

Set Up Your New Utilities

Water and sewage services are very important and will most likely be handled through your new city or town if you are buying a home. Arrange for the service to begin on your moving day by contacting your city’s public utility office a few weeks prior to the move.  You will need to have documentation if signing up in person. To prove your identity, you will need: a valid driver’s license, passport, alien registration card, or state-issued photo ID. Proof of residence at your new address will require a Lease/rental agreement or mortgage/proof of homeownership.  Setting up electricity, internet, garbage service and gas should be set up for the moving day as well. Call each provider a few days before your move to confirm that they have you all set up and ready to go. Be sure to have your list of names and account numbers nearby for reference, just in case.

All moves come with a certain amount of stress. But stress levels usually increase along with the distance. An interstate move is inevitably more stressful than a local move. However, like any other type of relocation, an interstate move can be pulled off successfully with a plan and guide.

Here are some tips to ease the burden of an interstate move:

Create a Packing Plan

Strategically plan by using the move-out date in your current home as the starting point. Then create a schedule and work your way backwards. One important thing to remember in an interstate move (unlike a local move), is that you don’t have the luxury to make multiple trips between your old and new homes.  For this reason, it’s vital to make sure everything is packed by the move-out date, and that anything you don’t intend to transport has been sold, discarded, or donated.  Try to pack items that are the least used ahead of time, and save kitchen and other “daily use” items for the last few days before your deadline.

Determine Transportation Logistics

How will you move your belongings across state lines?  The three major options are:

  • Do it yourself by packing and renting a moving truck. This is a cheaper option, but puts all the responsibility on your shoulders.
  • Pack a moving POD and arrange transportation of your POD. This is middle-of-the-ground price wise, but still requires coordinating how to move your POD across state lines.
  • Hire an experienced moving company. Moving across state lines is as natural as breathing for moving companies.  While this is the most expensive option, it is the least stressful as you hand over the responsibility to expert interstate movers.

Prepare an overnight bag

Make sure each family member sets aside a travel bag for the days you’ll be relocating from your old home to your new one. Some items that should be included are: changes of clothing, dental hygiene products, medicines, grooming products, and anything else you may need for spending multiple nights on the road.  You might also want to pack plenty of non-perishable food items and bottled water. This can help cut down on money spent dining out, especially if you’re traveling with children.