When moving out-of-state, it is likely you have a checklist for the moving company, your boxes sit packed and ready, and you probably plan to hop in your vehicle to drive to your destination.
Sometimes, a checklist for preparing and packing your vehicle can be just as useful as the checklist for the movers. Here are a few details to keep in mind when you plan to drive your vehicle during your out-of-state move.
1. Get Your Vehicle Serviced and Ready for the Road
Plan on taking your vehicle in for routine servicing at least six weeks before you plan to move. Tell the technician if your move includes towing a small trailer, traversing extremely steep grades and other details so they can check for things that commonly go wrong in those situations.
Ask your technician for a referral to a reputable and honest service technician in the city where you plan to live. Make sure to take care of all repairs that may be necessary well in advance of your trip. Filters and oil are typically changed or replaced before an out-of-state trip. If necessary, get estimates for recommended repair work and get a second opinion on the necessity of any repairs.
2. Include an Essentials Bag
There will always be items you should carry with you when traveling for any purpose. On a road trip to your new destination, however, your essentials bag will include some items you do not normally carry with you.
Prescription medication should be at or near the top of your list for items going in your essentials kit. Do not forget to talk with your current medical provider and notify them of your plan to move. They can provide helpful referrals, medical records and enough prescription medicine to last until you get established with a new doctor. Given the headaches caused by a move, you might want to make sure to pack an over-the-counter pain reliever in that kit as well.
Extra clothes and small containers with toiletries will come in handy and save you from making an extra stop because you forgot your toothbrush or toothpaste.
3. Plan for Food Along the Way
Snacks, water, and non-perishable food will save your budget during your road trip. Depending on the time of year, if you are moving to a cold weather state, pack emergency rations in case you get stranded. Do not forget disposable utensils.
4. Pack Your Plants
Do not forget to pack the plants you plan to take with you to your new place. Most moving companies do not deal with plants. Plants are fragile so pack them carefully or check with your local nursery for tips on packing the plants you want to transport.
5. Anticipate Your Arrival
A basic set of tools can prove to be quite helpful along the way as well as when you arrive at your new place. A hammer, screwdrivers, duct tape, a wrench and measuring tape should cover your needs.
6. Reserve all Hotel Accommodations
Do not plan on finding a place to stay when you get tired from driving. You never know if you stopped in a small town whose local rodeo coincides with your need for a room. It is unpleasant to find out there are no vacancies late at night when you are worn out.
Plan to the best of your ability, stay organized and remain flexible during your move. Little things might not go according to plan, and that is okay. Leave some time to stop and see landmarks or parks that you may not have the chance to visit again. The most important thing is that you arrive safely at your destination.
