Michigan Moving FAQs
Moving to Michigan can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience all at once. This is by no means a small task, so it’s important to ask questions before packing up to get a good idea of what to expect. Fortunately, this blog post will answer some of the most commonly asked questions by others who’ve also considered relocating to the Mitten State before. Find out everything from packing tips to the best neighborhoods to live in. So if you’re getting ready to hit the road, make sure to read till the end.
When Should I Move?
Timing is everything when it comes to moving. If cheap is what you seek, the best time to move is during the off-season, which typically occurs during the winter. However, be prepared to encounter challenges, such as harsh weather and slippery roads, especially in Michigan, where winters are notorious for freezing most of the state. It’s also advisable to move out during the
Are Michigan Winters That Cold?
That short answer is yes. The long answer is that Michigan winters are freezing, but the good news is, they’re not nearly as harsh as the winters of other colder states such as Maine or Alaska. Michigan’s overall climate is both humid and continental. For most locations in Michigan, there are four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall.
If you reside in Lower Michigan (the “thumb” area), you will experience more rain and cloudy days than anywhere else in the state. Living along the lakeshore, especially on Lake Superior, gives you a mild and pleasant type of weather. If you’re inland from the lake but still near it (e.g., Grand Rapids), expect warm summers with some humidity and cool winters. Lower Michigan is generally more temperate with four distinct seasons than the Upper Peninsula, which is slightly colder overall – not just in winter – because of its higher elevation.
What Do I Need To Know About Moving My Belongings?
When moving your belongings, you’ll want to plan accordingly so that you can avoid having to pay for additional storage costs. Make sure all of your items are packed before the day of your move so that you don’t have to rent any extra space to keep them in for an extended period of time. Additionally, be sure not to overload your vehicle because this could result in expensive fines or penalties if you’re pulled over by law enforcement while transporting anything that has been deemed overweight or oversized. If you’re planning a long-distance move to Michigan, it may be prudent to consider the benefits of hiring a Michigan moving company to handle all the tricky logistics.
What Is A Utility Shut Off Date?
A vital factor to consider when moving is the date on which your utilities will be shut off. Different companies have different policies and guidelines, so you need to take note of what day your energy, gas, and phone service will no longer be available. Try to schedule your move around this date as much as possible. Contact each company at least one month in advance to notify them that you won’t be living at your residence any longer and request a final reading. Keep in mind that there may also be fees associated with canceling these services early, depending on how long you intend to keep them active before switching over to another provider or getting rid of the service completely by putting the house up for rent.
What is a Binding Estimate?
A binding estimate is a written contract between you and the moving company which states all of the terms and conditions related to your upcoming move. These terms may include such things as how long the move will take, what types of services are included in the price, and how refunds work if you need to cancel due to extenuating circumstances. The term binding refers to the fact that the moving company is legally bound to the terms and conditions of your agreement, so they won’t be able to implement hidden fees.
What About Damage?
An experienced mover should be able to complete your move without damaging any furniture or walls during transit, even though accidents can and do happen. If something does get damaged while under their care, they should cover it with insurance unless otherwise agreed upon prior to the move date. This way, if anything is broken or lost on accident while being moved from one location to another, it will be taken care of at no added cost to you.
Where are The Best Places to Live in Michigan?
Almost everywhere! Michigan has a population of over 9.9 million and spans a vast area, so there is a lot of variety in the different communities and cities that are available to families looking for their next move.
Most people are pretty surprised by how much space there actually is in Michigan. There are luxuries given to the larger metropolitan areas like entertainment venues, sports teams, luxurious shopping malls, etc.;
However, you can find all these things even if your community isn’t extremely populated or urbanized because they are spread out between many different cities/suburbs, making it easy to access at least some form of entertainment no matter where you are in the state.
Some notable towns and cities include:
- Lansing – the state capital, this area is known for its historic architecture and high concentration of bars/restaurants.
- Detroit – the most well-known Michigan town, this metropolitan area is where businesses, entertainment, and most importantly, the opportunities lie.
- Ann Arbor – a peaceful town known for its big football and music scene, along with a bustling downtown area and eye-catching attractions.
- Grand Rapids – this mid-sized town is quickly becoming a popular destination, especially among young professionals and families who adore the elegant waterfronts.
Before You Relocate
Moving is a big decision. Something you might be proud of or end up regretting. That’s why you should take the time to do your research. Reading this guide is a good start. Michigan is excited to have you. Best of luck on your move!