Relocation remains a viable option for individuals, couples and families who are looking for greener pastures in their business and careers, new social experiences and oftentimes just to escape certain negative elements of a particular geographical area, such as poor insecurity or environmental and moral degradation.
Moving to a new territory altogether is not entirely an easy undertaking as there are so many things to consider. The relocation process can however be simplified by implementing the following measures.
10 tips and tricks for less stressful and successful relocation
1. Start a packing timeline
If you are not in a rush, start a few weeks early by writing down a plan of action for what needs to get done, by when.
2. Expenses
Before you decide if you’re ready to pull the trigger on relocating, you need to know what it will cost you. Start by listing all your potential relocation expenses – these are just costs associated with the process of moving. These include transportation costs, cost of security deposit/down payment for a new home, set up and closure fees of utilities, internet and cable, potential costs to fix/upgrade your new home, etc.
3. Stay organised
Start planning as far in advance as possible. Once you have made the decision, start planning out how you will do it. Checklists are a great way of keeping on top of what you need to do. List everything out and tick them off as you go. In addition to gaining a sense of satisfaction from ticking things off, it’ll also help to keep stress levels in check.
4. Hoard packing materials
Every time you visit the grocery store ask customer service for any heavy-duty boxes they have left after restocking their shelves. The liquor store is also a good place to get boxes that are segregated which makes packing glasses and other items much easier. Collect other materials like newspaper and bubble wrap from family and friends to prevent having to spend money on those types of packing materials. Old blankets are a great way to protect the furniture that’s going with you.
5. Label all boxes
It can be really easy to skip this step or to just do it sloppily. Some people would actually rather go out and buy new items instead of searching through yet another box for something they need. Nip unnecessary spending in the bud by marking each box with a permanent marker noting what room it belongs in with a brief list of what’s inside.
6. Get several quotes on moving companies
If you decide to have a moving company move your stuff be sure to get multiple estimates and quotes before making a decision. You want affordability, of course, but you also want reliability.
7. Notice
Notify your utility suppliers and anybody who needs to know that you are moving. But also remember to check out the average prices of utilities in the area you are relocating too, so that you don’t get a nasty shock when the first bill arrives. It will be a bonus if it works out that you will pay less.
8. Seek out sleep over deals
If you have to travel a long distance and plan to drive to your destination, you’ll need to consider stopping somewhere to rest. Look for hotel deals and restaurants along the way online before you leave.
9. Don’t buy until settled in
When you make it to your new home, give yourself time to unwind and unpack. Don’t rush out to the store to buy what you think you need. Give yourself time to sort through your stuff and get set up, keeping a list of ideas along the way.
10. Stay informed
Look out for the local paper, leaflets and community boards, they are full of information about retail developments, local clubs, societies, groups that you can join, and so many other things.
If well applied, the tips and guidelines above will help you relocate successfully.
