Are you preparing to make the move from the Buckeye State to the Sunshine State? If so, you aren’t alone. Each year thousands of newcomers flock to Florida to take advantage of the state’s warm weather, abundant sunshine, and beautiful coastline. From it’s year-round warm temperatures to it’s white sandy beaches, there is plenty to love about living in Florida. Florida offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors as well as a diverse culture and incredible cuisine. What’s more, Florida is actually quite affordable compared to many other states. In addition, jobs are plentiful in many areas and housing is affordable, which makes Florida an ideal place to live for both young families and retirees. Get ready to leave the snowy, cold winters of Ohio behind as you head for the beautiful Sunshine State!

Moving from Ohio to Florida will certainly be an exciting adventure, but it is also quite a big undertaking. Whether you have made an interstate move before or this is your first time, you must be adequately prepared so your transition is as seamless as possible. To help you prepare for your move, let’s take a look at what Florida has to offer as well as tips for a long-distance move.

What to Love About Living in Florida

Florida is one of the most popular states for newcomers and it’s easy to see why. For starters, Florida boasts some of the most desirable weather in the country. With average temperatures around 75 degrees and more than 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s easy to get out and explore all that Florida has to offer. Florida is packed with stunning sights and incredible attractions including  hundreds of miles of world-class beaches, diverse wildlife, delectable food options, theme parks, and so much more. Popular activities in the state include swimming, boating, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding, golfing, biking, and tennis. The state also boasts a number of museums and world-famous attractions such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and a host of professional sports teams.

Another reason many people choose to live in Florida is the low cost of living. With so much to offer, you might be surprised to know that Florida is actually quite affordable. While big cities like Miami can be a bit pricey, the majority of the state is below the national average for cost of living. Goods and services, healthcare, and housing in Florida all fall below the national average. Florida is also one of only seven states that does not collect a state income tax. This is just one more way Florida residents get to save a little money!

The Cost of Moving from Ohio to Florida

There are a number of factors that will determine the cost of your move from Ohio to Florida. These include things like the number of items you are moving, the exact distance of your move, and whether or not you choose to hire professional movers. There are several options when it comes to moving out of state and each can affect the total cost of your move.

Hiring Professional Movers: You can hire a professional moving company to handle all of the logistics of your long-distance move from packing and loading to transporting and unpacking. While this is certainly among the most convenient options, it also comes with the heftiest price tag. The average cost of an interstate move with a professional moving company is anywhere from $3000-$6000 depending on how many items you are moving.

Renting a Truck: This might be a suitable option if you aren’t moving a lot of items. For instance, if you are moving from a small apartment, you might be able to handle the move on your own. You will have to factor in the cost of renting a moving truck, purchasing insurance for the truck, as well as food, gas, and lodging expenses.

Renting a Portable Storage Container: Another popular and convenient option is to rent a portable storage container. This is a great alternative for those who want the convenience of a moving company but don’t want to pay the expensive price. Portable storage containers are conveniently delivered to your home, allowing you the flexibility to pack at your convenience. You can then arrange to have them delivered to your new home in Florida. You can rent the storage container for as long as you like and you pay a fee for transport.

Tips for a Long-Distance Move from Ohio to Florida

Moving from one state to another is a big task, so it’s important to take the right steps to ensure you are prepared. Unlike a local move, you won’t have the luxury of making multiple trips back and forth so you need to make sure you do everything you can to simplify the process. Here are a few tips for a successful long-distance move:

Purge and Declutter: Moving to a new state is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of unwanted items. The less you have to pack, the faster and cheaper it will be to move.

Pack in Advance: As soon as you know you are moving, it’s time to begin packing. Don’t wait until the last minute, as this can exacerbate stress and complicate the process.

Create a Moving Checklist: There is so much to do, especially when you are moving to a new state. Keep a moving checklist to help you stay organized along the way and ensure you don’t forget anything.

Enlist Help: Moving is a major undertaking so it’s important to get help. Start by having family or friends help with the packing process. You should also consider getting professional help to ease the process. Renting a portable storage unit or hiring movers can be helpful in many situations.

Moving from Ohio to Florida is a big job but Smartbox Moving and Storage has everything you need to make your long distance move easy and affordable. We are your one-stop-shop for everything you need for a successful move. Whether you prefer to rent a moving truck or portable storage containers, we have you covered. We even offer loading and unloading services to make your move even easier.. We also have boxes, packing supplies, and everything you will need to prepare for your move. Contact us today and let us help you find a solution that fits your budget and your needs.