This spring many college graduates will be relocating to a new city to start their careers. Many families will also be on the move after the school year to start a new adventure.
As someone who has temporarily relocated to Prague, Hawaii, Philadelphia, Houston and Boston, I have a certain understanding of the relocation process, even though in my case it was only temporary.
Finding a place to live is crucial, especially if you have a family. If you can, visit your new city for a weekend and check out different neighborhoods.
Consider renting first before you pull the trigger on a serious financial investment of a condo or house. For example, take a short-term lease, or rent through AirBNB for a few months to seek out the right neighborhood for you and your family.
Variables you want to consider are schools, crime, location, public transportation and traffic. If you are unable to visit, hit the Internet and search neighborhoods using Google Maps.
Understand that moving is stressful, and stowing your belongings into boxes is time-consuming. One of the key things to do before you pack up your stuff is to get organized.
The biggest challenge is packing. What do you take and what do you let go? Packing is a great time to purge emotionally, and also to clear out the clutter.
Create four piles: yes, no, donate and maybe.
The Yes pile is filled with items that you can’t live without and you would grab if your house caught on fire. Those items may include important documents (birth certificate, passport) as well as photos, laptop, medications, jewelry, family heirlooms, and grandma’s china.
The No pile is old files and paperwork, and clothing that you’d use as dust rags or to wax your car.
The Maybe pile is stuff that you could live without. If it fell off the moving truck, you would not be devastated.
The Donate pile should be loaded with items that you have not worn or used in more than two years. This doesn’t necessarily include your wedding dress, unless you want to donate it.
There are several charities which will sell your wedding dress for charity, or reuse your dress for a bride. For example, Brides Across America donates your dress to military brides.
The Donate pile can also include suits to give to an organization like Dress for Success which collects suits and work apparel for women. Remember, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure, and you are passing on some good will.
Shipping can be very expensive. For example, if you are relocating to Hawaii or Europe it can cost as much as $2500 to ship your car.
If your car is paid for and in great shape, it might be worth the investment. But, remember if you locate to another state, you will have to register your car and pay for any increase in sales tax.
While moving can be stressful, you are embarking on a new journey for you and your family. In the days ahead, you will be expanding your horizons and meeting interesting people.
Sources:
"Making the Move to a New City." Making the Move to a New City. Web. 2 Apr. 2015.
http://www.first30days.com/moving-to-a-new-city/articles/making-the-move-to-a-new-city.html
"Making the Move to a New City." Making the Move to a New City. Web. 2 Apr. 2015.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/11/20/8-tips-for-a-successful-job-relocation
Reviewed April 2, 2015
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith