So you’re moving to a new state. Congratulations! Whether you’re relocating for a new job, to be closer to family, or just for a change of scenery, this is an exciting time. Moving to another place is like a whole new beginning. But as incredible and refreshing as it is, there are still some things that you need to take care of before finally saying goodbye to your old home.
There are so many things to think about and organize—where will you live, how will you get your furniture, and what about your pets? And let’s not forget about your car. Moving your vehicle to a new state can seem daunting, but fret not. Read everything you need to know about getting your vehicle from Point A to Point B.
Hiring a Shipping Company
Technically, there are two ways to move your vehicle cross-country—you can either drive it yourself or hire a shipping company to do it for you. But in many cases, hiring a cross-country car shipping service provider is much more practical, especially if you’re pressed for time or are not up for a long road trip. Here are some of the advantages of using a car shipping company:
- Less expensive than driving yourself—If you’re on a budget, this is probably the best option. Hiring a professional to handle your car’s transport will cost you less than if you were to do it yourself.
- You don’t have to drive—This is ideal if you’re not comfortable driving long distances or don’t have the time to do it. Remember that moving cross-country can be pretty tiring, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
- Your car will be delivered right to your doorstep—When you use a shipping company, you can sit back and relax while your car is delivered to your new home. No need to worry about driving it there yourself or finding a place to store it while settling in.
There are plenty of companies that offer cross-country car shipping services. But as with anything else, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable one. Be sure to get quotes from at least three different companies so you can compare rates. And when you finally settle on a provider, be sure to ask about their insurance policy in case something happens to your car while in transit.
Driving Your Car Yourself
The first thing you’ll need to do is ensure your car is in good shape for the move. This means getting it serviced and ensuring that all required maintenance is up to date. You should also check your tires and brakes before undertaking a long journey. Making sure your car is in tip-top shape will help reduce the risk of breakdowns or accidents during the move. Plus, it’ll give you peace of mind knowing that your car is ready for anything the road throws.
Once you’ve taken care of the mechanical stuff, it’s time to start packing your belongings. If you’re driving cross-country, you’ll probably want to pack lightly—after all, the less stuff you have in your car, the better gas mileage you’ll get. But even if you’re driving a few hundred miles, it’s always a good idea to pack an overnight bag with some clothes and essentials, just in case you run into any delays along the way. You should also ensure you have all the necessary paperwork for your car—registration, proof of insurance, etc.—in an easily accessible place. That way, you’ll be prepared if you run into any trouble on the road.
On the Road
When it comes time to hit the open road, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First of all, take breaks often! Driving for long periods can be taxing on both your body and your mind, so it’s important to take regular breaks to stretch your legs and give yourself a break from behind the wheel. If possible, try to plan your route so that you can stop for the night at a hotel or campground—that way, you won’t have to worry about finding somewhere safe to pull over and sleep in your car. And speaking of sleeping in your car, if that’s something you’re planning on doing during your move (not recommended!), make sure you park in well-lit areas and lock all your doors and windows before settling in for the night. Safety first!
Final thoughts
Moving can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be! By following these simple tips, you can ensure that moving your car to a new state is as smooth and easy as possible. Just relax, take your time, and enjoy the ride—before long, you’ll be settled into your new home sweet home. Safe travels!
