Moving, in general, tends to be a stressful event. Moving long-distance with a family sounds is even worse! The good news is that there are many resources available to families who are relocating. With some basic research and support from people and moving companies who are your dedicated advocates, the stress of moving can be greatly alleviated. Here are some items that should be on your moving to-do checklist:
Explore Compensation Packages
If your move is work-related, check to see if your employer offers company relocation assistance. Many companies have different relocation benefits depending on your position in the company. These benefits can include a number of perks including moving van assistance, packing assistance, paid moving expenses, a personal relocation assistant and more.
Even if you are not in a position where these benefits are granted, you may be connected to the group of relocation experts that work with your company and who can point you in the right direction.
Set a Budget
If you are not able to secure relocation assistance through work, the first thing will be to put together a soft budget. Even if you’re receiving help from work, this isn’t a bad idea! It should cover the approximate costs of packing, moving, and any traveling that you will have to do to and from the new home before you are truly settled.
Getting this out of the way first will help guide the rest of your move and ensure it is – somewhat – manageable.
Pack and Map Out a Floorplan
As you prepare to move into your new home one of the first and foremost things is going to be packing. Now is also a good time to go through your things and donate or ditch the things that are not really wanted anymore. Long-distance movers sometimes charge by weight so the fewer ‘unnecessary’ things, the better. Even if they don’t charge by weight, it won’t do you much good if you need a larger truck just because you packed everything.
Take this time to pare down your belongings and focus on what you will want in your new home. While you go through your things, note if the furniture will fit in the new home or if it will need to be replaced. If you’re looking to replace the furniture, there is no reason to try and take it with you.
Plan the Logistics
Before you go and rent your first U-Haul, look around for professional moving companies who specialize in long-distance moves. While they may cost more than your neighborhood rental truck, they often offer extra services such as loading.
Some companies even have teams that you can hire to pack your home up – if not all of it, the furniture and delicate pieces at least. Professional movers can also offer moving insurance in case some of your things don’t make the trip.
There are myriad pieces that must be organized, planned, and anticipated when you are moving long-distance with your family. However, with timing and a little extra planning things don’t have to be too stressful.
There are companies who specialize in relocation, and they are just a phone call away. Whether you choose to use a full relocation package or use some services and do some on your own, moving long-distance can turn into a stress-free new start for you and your family.