Relocating from your current residence may seem an uphill task due to the numerous logistics plans involved. On the other hand, cross-country relocation can be a fun experience depending on how you prepare for the same. Below are some tips that will be handy when undertaking your cross-country move.
1. Calculate Costs Involved
As an American, you are likely to relocate 11 times in your lifetime, and during the relocation period, calculating costs is necessary to keep you within your budget. Ensure you budget for your moving expenses, from the professional packers’ hiring costs to the unloading costs. When budgeting, set aside some amount for any unforeseen predicaments.
2. Choose a Moving Company
The worst nightmare when relocating is getting your items damaged while in transit. Hiring a reputable moving company will come in handy in ensuring your items safely arrive at your destination. Moving companies have modified vehicles that can accommodate all your belongings. Before settling for a moving company, ensure it is licensed in case anything happens to your goods while in transit; you will be compensated for the same.
It is necessary to check the prices of different moving companies before settling for your ideal moving company. Avoid using your car to carry your household items while relocating as it will cause unnecessary damage, and it will cost you an average of $356 to repair your car.
3. Hire Professionals to Aid in Packing
Depending on your house size, it may take weeks or months to pack your household items without proper assistance. Hiring professionals to aid you in packing will hasten this process and eliminate any stress associated with the process. Some moving companies offer packing services while others don’t. Professional packers come with boxes that will aid in the organization while packing. In addition, you will enjoy the safe wrapping of your items and loading them onto your moving track. The packaging costs may vary depending on the items in your house.
4. Plan for Your Pet Travel
If you are planning to relocate with your pet, avoid the last-minute rush and plan for its travel in advance. Suppose you spend a few days on the road researching the best pet-friendly hotels. If you are flying, you must inform your airline in advance that you will fly with your pet. When flying with your pet, you need to get your pet’s medical records in order and ensure it is licensed. To mitigate any stress on your pet while traveling, ensure its cage is spacious and safe. Ensure your pet enjoys some breaks in between your travels.
5. Change Your Address
When relocating to a new place, ensure you change your postal address before your travel date. You can change your postal address online, via a phone call to your post office, by sending mail to the post office, or by physically visiting the post office. Over 55 million Americans in 12 industries send mail via the post office. Failure to change your postal address can make you miss out on important emails and notifications.
6. Create an Unpacking Plan
Since you have made a pre-visit to your new destination, you need to have an unpacking plan. With a proper and effective plan, you don’t need to unpack all the items at once. You can start by unpacking the beds and bedding you will require for the night and probably some of your kitchenware. Once you have taken a shower and freshened up, you can focus on unpacking the other items. Ensure you unpack all your items before hosting a housewarming party.
7. Change Your Home Utilities
when relocating, you need to communicate with your utility service providers to facilitate the disconnection of the utilities in your current residence. This can be done two weeks before the relocation. Once you settle in your new residence, you can arrange for reconnection of the utility services such as the Internet, telephone, and gas, among others.
If possible, communicate with all the service providers before your relocation date to mitigate any inconveniences. Ensure you stick within your relocation budget to avoid financial crises.