Introduction

Moving to a new area can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most crucial aspects of moving is deciding which items to take with you and what to purchase after you arrive. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of determining what to move and what to buy in your new area. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, these insights will help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition.

Items You Should Move vs. What You Should Buy In Your New Area

Moving to a new area involves making strategic choices about what to bring from your current home and what to acquire in your new environment. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide your decision-making:

1. Sentimental Items

When considering what to move, prioritize sentimental items like family heirlooms, photographs, and cherished mementos. These hold emotional value and can make your new space feel like home right away.

2. Essential Furniture

Key furniture pieces such as your bed, sofa, dining table, and essential kitchen appliances should be moved. This ensures you have a comfortable and functional living space from day one.

3. Clothing and Personal Items

Pack clothing and personal items that are suitable for the new climate and lifestyle. Don’t forget essentials like toiletries, medications, and important documents.

4. Electronics

Electronics like laptops, chargers, and entertainment devices should be moved to maintain connectivity and keep you entertained during the settling-in period.

5. Cookware and Kitchenware

Consider moving basic cookware and kitchenware. However, you can explore local markets to buy utensils and ingredients specific to your new area’s cuisine.

6. High-Value Items

Valuables such as jewelry and valuable collections should be transported with care. It’s advisable to carry these items with you rather than entrusting them to the moving process.

7. Local Regulations and Lifestyle

Research local regulations and the lifestyle of your new area. This can influence what you should move (e.g., certain plants or pets might be restricted) and what you should buy (e.g., winter gear for a colder climate).

8. Large Appliances

Consider the cost and practicality of moving large appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Sometimes, it’s more cost-effective to buy new ones upon arrival.

9. Items with High Replacement Cost

Evaluate items with high replacement costs. If it’s more affordable to move them than to buy new ones, transporting them makes sense.

10. Language and Cultural Considerations

If you’re moving to an area with a different language or culture, certain items might not be readily available. Plan to move items that align with your preferences and comfort.

11. Items with Emotional Value

Items that hold emotional significance, such as children’s favorite toys or a beloved pet’s belongings, can provide a sense of continuity and comfort in the new environment.

12. Home Décor

Bring along home décor items that resonate with your personal style. However, explore local markets to infuse your new space with a touch of the local aesthetic.

13. Frequently Used Tools

If you’re handy around the house, consider moving frequently used tools. These can be essential for any minor repairs or adjustments needed in your new home.

14. Outdoor Equipment

If you enjoy outdoor activities, move equipment like bicycles, camping gear, or sports gear to ensure you can continue pursuing your hobbies.

15. Items with Limited Availability

If your new area has limited availability of certain items, such as specialized medical equipment, it’s wise to move them to ensure your needs are met.

16. Home Office Setup

In the age of remote work, moving your home office setup, including your desk, chair, and necessary electronics, can help you settle into your work routine faster.

17. Local Resources

Research local resources before moving. If specific items are hard to find or expensive, consider moving them to avoid inconvenience or extra costs.

18. Transition Period Considerations

Think about the duration of the transition period. If there’s a significant gap between your arrival and your belongings, consider moving items that can make the interim comfortable.

19. Items of Irreplaceable Value

Items that are truly irreplaceable, such as handmade crafts or unique artworks, should be moved to ensure their safety and preservation.

20. Clothing for Different Seasons

Pack clothing suitable for the local climate and seasonal changes. If you’re moving from a warmer to a colder climate (or vice versa), consider moving essential clothing items.

21. Children’s Needs

If you have children, prioritize their comfort by moving their familiar belongings, toys, and items that contribute to a sense of stability.

22. Accessibility in the New Area

Consider the accessibility of items in your new area. If certain items are hard to find or expensive, moving them could be the more practical choice.

23. Local Traditions and Customs

Research local traditions and customs. Moving items that align with the local way of life can help you integrate more seamlessly into your new community.

24. Emergency Supplies

Pack emergency supplies such as first aid kits, flashlights, and batteries. These can be invaluable during the initial adjustment phase.

25. Items You Can Easily Replace

Finally, items that are readily available and affordable in your new area, such as everyday household items, can be left behind and purchased as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Should I move all my furniture to the new area?

A: While moving essential furniture is recommended, assess whether the cost of transporting large furniture items outweighs buying new ones in your new location.

Q: What should I consider when moving to a different climate?

A: Pack clothing suitable for the new climate, and research whether your current home appliances are compatible with the new environment.

Q: How do I decide what sentimental items to move?

A: Prioritize items with strong emotional significance, such as family heirlooms and cherished memories, to make your new space feel like home.

Q: Are there items I shouldn’t move due to local regulations?

A: Yes, certain plants, pets, or items might be restricted by local regulations. Research these beforehand to avoid any complications.

Q: Should I transport high-value items during the move?

A: It’s advisable to carry high-value items, such as jewelry and valuable collections, with you to ensure their safety and security.

Q: Can I buy most of the items after I move?

A: Absolutely. Many everyday items can be easily replaced in your new area, so you can prioritize moving items of sentimental or practical value.

Conclusion

Moving to a new area is a significant life change, and deciding what to move and what to buy can have a profound impact on your transition. By considering factors like sentimental value, practicality, accessibility, and local resources, you can make well-informed choices that facilitate a seamless and enjoyable settling-in process. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—every move is unique, so tailor your decisions to your individual needs and preferences.

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Relocating across the country can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. Whether you’re moving for a new job, better opportunities, or a change of scenery, thorough planning and preparation are key to a successful transition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through 9 essential tips that will help you navigate the process smoothly and make your cross-country move a positive and memorable experience.

1. Begin with a Detailed Moving Plan

Planning is the cornerstone of a successful cross-country move. Start by creating a comprehensive moving checklist that outlines every step of the process, from decluttering and packing to hiring movers and settling into your new home. A well-organized plan will keep you on track and reduce stress as your moving day approaches.

2. Research Your New Location

Before making the move, thoroughly research your new city or town. Familiarize yourself with local amenities, schools, healthcare facilities, and transportation options. This information will help you adjust more quickly and make informed decisions as you settle into your new environment.

3. Declutter and Downsize

Moving across the country is an excellent opportunity to declutter and downsize your belongings. Sort through your items and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. This will not only reduce the cost of moving but also help you start fresh in your new home with only the items you truly need and cherish.

4. Secure Reliable Moving Services

Choose a reputable and experienced moving company that specializes in long-distance moves. Get multiple quotes, read reviews, and inquire about insurance coverage. A reliable moving company will ensure the safety of your belongings and provide peace of mind during the transition.

5. Pack Strategically

Efficient packing is crucial for a smooth move. Use sturdy boxes, packing tape, and protective materials to safeguard fragile items. Label boxes by room to simplify unpacking. Consider creating an “essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.

6. Update Your Address and Utilities

Don’t forget to update your address with the post office, banks, and any relevant institutions. Cancel or transfer your utilities and services, such as electricity, water, and internet, to your new address. Ensuring a seamless transition of services will make settling into your new home much easier.

7. Take Care of Legal and Administrative Tasks

In the excitement of moving, important administrative tasks can be overlooked. Transfer your driver’s license and update your vehicle registration if you’re moving to a new state. Register to vote and update your insurance policies accordingly.

8. Plan for Pet and Family Logistics

If you have pets or family members accompanying you, plan their logistics in advance. Ensure your pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and consider their comfort during the journey. If you’re relocating with family, make sure everyone’s needs are accounted for during the move and transition.

9. Stay Positive and Embrace the Change

Moving across the country can be emotionally challenging, but maintaining a positive outlook can make a significant difference. Embrace the adventure, explore your new surroundings, and focus on the opportunities that lie ahead. Surround yourself with supportive people to help make the transition smoother.

FAQs

How far in advance should I start planning my cross-country move?

It’s recommended to start planning at least 2-3 months before your desired move date. This will give you ample time to research, organize, and make necessary arrangements.

Is hiring professional movers worth the cost?

Yes, hiring professional movers for a cross-country move is advisable. They have the experience, equipment, and expertise to handle the logistics and ensure the safety of your belongings during the long journey.

What’s the best way to find a new healthcare provider in my new location?

Research local healthcare providers, read reviews, and consider seeking recommendations from your current healthcare professionals. Schedule appointments before your move to ensure a seamless transition of care.

How can I help my children adjust to the cross-country move?

Involve your children in the moving process by letting them pack their belongings and explore their new surroundings. Maintain open communication and address any concerns they may have about the move.

How do I manage the stress of a cross-country move?

Stress is common during a move, but you can manage it by staying organized, taking breaks, and practicing self-care. Lean on friends, family, and online resources for support and guidance.

What should I include in my “essentials” box for the move?

Your essentials box should include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents (passports, IDs, lease agreements), basic kitchen utensils, and any medications you may need.

Conclusion

Relocating across the country is an opportunity for growth, exploration, and new beginnings. By following these 9 expert tips, you can navigate the journey with confidence and ensure a smooth transition into your new chapter. Remember, thorough planning, a positive mindset, and a well-organized approach are the keys to a successful cross-country move.

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Then life happens and things change. The newlywed couple has a baby or plans to have children — they need more space. While living in an apartment you may want to own a dog— he requires a yard to play in and sidewalks for daily walks. Young people who are well on their way to successful careers may be ready to invest in property. These are just a few of the reasons that cause people to move from a multifamily complex into a single-family home of their own.

Once somebody makes the decision to move from an apartment or condo to a house, how do they decide where this home should be? Buying a home is the biggest investment most people will ever make, so careful consideration of the area is of the utmost importance. What should you look for when deciding where to live?

Go Big AND Go Home

The below infographic, Go Big AND Go Home … Deciding When to Move and Where to Live, presents a list of the top five reasons people move from apartments and condominiums into single-family homes. It also offers tips for what you should look for in a new neighborhood based on your unique situation. Review this infographic if you think you’re ready to make your move.

Graphic created by New City Moving.

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Considering the size, weight and the value of furniture items, moving them by yourself is not the best thing to try if you don’t have enough experience, equipment and resources. Handling heavy furniture without following precautions can be difficult, stressful and extremely dangerous. Mentioned herewith are some of the tips you should know before starting your moving process.

Assess your furniture items

The most important thing is to assess the items before starting any Home or Office furniture removals. Assess the space available in the new building and see if your existing furniture items can fit there. If you don’t have enough space, plant how to get rid of the extra furniture items.

You can arrange a yard sale to get rid of old, unnecessary furniture items. If you the new place is larger than the existing one and require more furniture, you should plan it at this point. Meanwhile, you need to make sure that your furniture mover provides furniture assembly facility too.

Getting rid of the additional furniture

The easiest approach is to throw away the old furniture items. However, as mentioned earlier you can have a yard sale and sell some of the usable items and earn some dollars to help your moving budget.

You can contact a disposal company to get rid of the rest of the unusable, old furniture. If you are generous enough to donate furniture items, just do it; there are plenty of charity organizations to accept such donations.

Find a furniture mover if you are not comfortable

Once the assessment is done, you will have a clear idea about the items that are left to be moved to the new location. If you have just couple of light weight items, you may not need the help of a cheap furniture removal company. However, if you are not 100% confident about handling the moving process by yourself, call a moving company. There are plenty of such companies in the industry whose rates differ from each other.

Make sure you select a well experienced, professional mover who is equipped with all the equipment and qualifications to move your furniture safely. To find a moving company, you can search in internet, ask from your friends, family members or colleagues who have recently moved or refer to newspaper ads.

Dismantle the items carefully

Modern furniture items are manufactured to be easy to dismantle. Take your time and start to dismantle items one by one. Most of these items are fastened with screws or some other technology that is easy to attach and detach when you need.

Be careful when you dismantle items that contains fragile (glass) parts. Wrap those glasses with papers or some other appropriate wrapping immediately after dismantling to prevent potential scratches and damages.

Pack your furniture is possible

If you can handle packing the furniture items, that would be great. No matter if you rely on a moving company to move your furniture away; it is better if you can pack the items by yourself. When you are directly involved with the process, the safety of the furniture is perfectly guaranteed. However, it is always important to do it leisurely without hurrying the process

Packing is completed only when they are sealed perfectly. Be sure to put a unique identification mark on all the items. It will be easy for you when unpacking. Also, you need to mark fragile items with another unique symbol, so the professional house movers will do their job perfectly.

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1. Start Organizing Early

Before you start packing it is a sure thing that you have got more possessions and things to pack than you think. Make sure that you allow yourself enough time to pack all your possessions and furniture, you don’t want to be rushing to the finish, stuffing boxes when the movers are there at your doorstep.

• Create lists of your items per room and inventory everything you have. Planning the date of the move is critical for a number of reasons.
• Try and schedule your move during the week, when more services like banks, utilities, government offices, mechanics and towing services are open in the event that you might need one or all of the above during your move.
• Check on the weather statistics for the day you move as well, moving in the rain is not much fun.
• Once you have decided on a move day then you are ready to schedule your move. This schedule is a plan of what you need to do and when you need to do it.
• Make a list of who needs to do what on the move day. Many moving companies will have a checklist for you to follow but there is no harm to start your own list and getting off to a very good start with planning your move.
• Checklists provided by moving companies usually schedule 8 weeks in advance, but if you don’t have the luxury of the two month time gap until your move day there are checklists and plans for 4 weeks and 2 weeks and so on. Just ask them, it will make your life much easier.

2. Get a Quote

If you have decided to get the professionals in to do the move for you then it is time to a) find the right moving company and b) get a quote you are happy with. It is now time to do your homework and research the right moving company. Ask friends, neighbors, your Realtor, and family member who they would use if they had to move home.

Reputable moving companies’ schedules will fill up very quickly so be sure to make your booking well in advance as you can. Be careful to make sure that your movers are licensed and bonded. Take pictures and videos of your valuables and possessions before the move and put it on a disk or pen drive marked ‘household move file’. Take this file with you for insurance and replacement purposes.

• There are scams out there and by choosing a good moving company, and one which has been referred to you by someone who cares about you, you will ensure that you are covered for all the possible outcomes of the move.
• Check out the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints about the moving company you have chosen. Never sign a blank check for a moving company.
• Get a quote and be aware that you are likely to have underestimated your amount of possessions, sizes and bulk! Getting the quotes from the moving companies will likely focus your attention on which possession you want to take with you and which you will want to sell or donate.
• One great tip is to take each item into a room and decide if it is worth taking or leaving. If you are downsizing this decision is quite often a very hard one to make as there may be so many emotional attachments to your possessions.
• This de-cluttering process is quite cathartic as well so you may also feel a weight has been taken off your shoulders when you do pare down your possessions pre move.
• When you are budgeting for your move make sure you take into account other expenses such as storage of items, the packing materials, temporary boarding for pets, permits for loading and unloading vehicles, food and lodging costs for you and your family if needs be.

3. Packing

If you are moving in 2 months, start packing now. If you are moving in two weeks, start the packing now! Essentially the earlier you pack the better. It will seem like a never ending task otherwise and the worst thing that can happen is for movers to be waiting outside the door on your move day whilst you are still getting organized.

• The earlier you pack the less stressed you will be. Mark all the moving containers with the contents and the desired location in your new home.
• Be sure to mark all sides of the box with a magic marker, and make sure that the top of the box is marked as such.
• Movers have no idea otherwise which way up your tea set should go! Use different coloured post-it notes for different rooms, and write which room each box belongs to. This will save you so much time at the other end of the move and make the process much more efficient.
• Use plenty of tissue paper for valuables and breakables and bubble wrap everything as much as you can. Styrofoam peanuts will cushion your possessions as much as possible when they are in transit and these are very cheap to purchase and may save you from anything getting broken during the move.
• As you are packing try and delegate some of this task to your family members. Kids love to get involved in this and it is important for them to know where their treasured possessions are stored, such as ‘teddy’.
• Identify items which you need to have easily at hand and make sure that they are packed separately from the rest of your items. Have your emergency numbers at hand, clothes, school books, glasses, dog’s leash and food at hand etc.
• If you have hidden any valuables around the house be sure to find them before you go! Valuables should travel with you rather than being transported by a moving company in their van.

4. Notify Everyone

When moving home it is important that everyone and his dog knows! Send out a moving announcement to friends and family. Makes sure your utility companies, credit cards, satellite provider, banks, stocks and bonds companies, insurance companies, lawyer, phone companies, all know that you are moving and when you are moving.

• A change of address has many legal considerations so be sure to be straight with all these companies and institutions. Contact a lawyer if legal matters are involved.
• Change your address with the Post Office and schedule your utility companies for the new address. You might want to set up a checking account in your new town or city and getting this arranged before-hand is a good idea.
• If you have library books out on loan be sure to give them back. Set up appointments with the local doctors and dentist in your new area, if needs be.
• Get copies of family members medical and dental records before the move. Make sure you transfer any prescriptions at the local drug store.
• Get veterinary records for your pets. School records for your kids if they are moving schools.
• Be careful to update your utility bills and pay them before you leave. They can dent your credit records if you leave and don’t pay the outstanding bills from your old address.

5. Pets and Kids

If you have pets make plans well ahead to ensure that they will be looked after during the move, and how you will transport them to your new home. Cats often need a couple of weeks inside a new address before they are let out of the house. Sometimes cats that have been moved from one address to another will go missing as they want to go back to the last home they were familiar with.

• Make sure that you purchase pet carriers in advance. Moving companies can’t transport pets or plants (or kids) so have these arrangements made well in advance. You may want to leave your pets with a friend or family during the move.
• Perhaps if the kids are young then this might be a good idea too. If the children are a littler older and understand what is going on then getting them involved in the move, the packing and the planning is a great way of helping them make the transition to their new address.
• Make the kids feel special by having their own boxes to pack with their own possessions. If the children are actively involved in the local community events then find out what is similarly on offer in the new location. This way they will settle in better once you have moved.
• Find out about registration at the new school and be mindful that it is much easier on the kids to move at the beginning of the school year than half way through. They are far more likely to make new friends this way and settle in to the new school quicker.
• Try and resist the urge to throw out young children’s toys and clothes when you are packing. This can make them feel insecure about the move and often can cause behavior problems further down the line.
• Assure kids that they can keep in touch with their friends by email. Give older children a disposable camera and ask them to photograph your move. Once they have moved in it is time to create a ‘moving house’ chapter in the family photo album.
• Get the children excited about their new rooms in the new house and ask for their input on decorating ideas for their rooms.

6. Furniture

Moving house is really hard on your furniture. Furniture is the bulkiest and heaviest of all your possession and these are the most likely to be the possessions that get damaged in transit.

• Be sure to wrap the legs of furniture in bubble wrap, and wrap the large pieces in plastic wrapping. Mattresses have special bags for moving house.
• Disassemble as much of the furniture as you can. This reduces the bulk and makes better use of the storage space in the back of the moving vehicle.
• Place pads under the legs of items of furniture when they are being moved around the home. This will stop any scratches on the floor or strain on the furniture legs.
• If you can get any of the furniture onto wheels then this is the best way of moving these items around.
• If you disassemble the furniture be sure to tape the screws, nuts and bolts in a bag to the items with instructions on where each nut and bolt goes when it comes to putting the furniture back together again at the new home.
• Don’t clean upholstered furniture before the move as the moisture can cause mold if the furniture is being placed into any form of storage.
• Photograph all your furniture before the move and note any scratches and dings that may be present. This is wise for insurance purposes.
• Label where each piece of furniture is to be carried to so the movers know exactly where to place the items when they are carried in to your new home.

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A new home doesn’t feel like home until your favorite couch and your personal items are there for you to use. Since packing and moving furniture isn’t really something most people consider exciting, here are eight tips that will help you make the process easier.

Packing Delicate Items

• Electronics are among the most expensive items you own, which makes them some of the most valuable materials when it comes to moving. To ensure that they are packed safely before your move place them in their original boxes. If you save them, it makes packing them and moving them much easier.
• You can pick up specialty boxes at packing stores that you can place your glassware and china in to keep it safe during a move. These boxes are specially designed to help the contents stay safe during any move.
• Mirrors are difficult to pack because they are so large. To prevent glass from shattering you can place masking tape on the glass in a starburst design. This helps prevent shattering if a mirror is dropped or pushed up against something stronger than itself.
• Always label boxes very clearly. If a box contains fragile items, mark the box with the word fragile. This helps to prevent the contents of the box from being handled roughly. Use a red marker to write on fragile boxes to ensure that the warning label is not missed.

• Take furniture apart. Disassembling items means taking out drawers and removing as many pieces as possible to make the furniture as light and safe as possible. Additionally, this gives you the opportunity to wrap drawers and other pieces of furniture in protective layers to prevent them from becoming scratched, dented, or destroyed.

Moving Delicate Items

• Never try to move heavy items such as antique furniture and mirrors alone. Always have assistance when it comes to moving heavy items so that you don’t hurt yourself or your items in the move. Hiring movers in advance is a great solution. Professional movers know the best ways to move heavy and fragile furniture.
• Store items in the moving truck in safe places. Mirrors are easily damaged in a move. This means they should be stored in moving trucks between protective items such as mattresses and their box springs. Heavy furniture should be wrapped in protective wrap and loaded into the truck first. Small electronics and other delicate items do better in the trunk of your car or in the backseat of your car when you are moving.
• Use assistance moving furniture whenever possible. A dolly is a great source of help because it allows you to easily push heavy furniture from the house to the moving truck and into the new house without damaging it, dropping it, or accidentally injuring someone. Most moving companies provide dollies, but if you plan on moving without assistance you can usually rent one to assist you with the move. It is wise to have people help you load things onto it, however.

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Although there is no way to make the moving process completely quick and easy, there are certain things you can do to simplify the process, especially when packing.

If you want to help make it a cinch to pack your important items, here are 5 tips that will contribute to easier packing.

1. Pack Similar Items Together

If you want to make it easy to unpack at your new house, it is a good idea for you to pack similar items together. For example, pack all items according to the room in the house they will go in. Have boxes for kitchen items, bedroom items, living room items and so on and it will be very easy to unpack your items in the correct room of your new home.

2. Wrap Breakables

If you have items that can break easily, you must make sure that you wrap them so they stay safe. Use bubble wrap and newspaper to wrap those special breakable items and you will not have the awful surprise of finding these items broken when it comes time to unpack.

3. Label Boxes

If you truly want to keep organized while moving, be sure to label all of your boxes. If you do not label your boxes, it will be quite time consuming to figure out where everything is once you have moved the boxes into your new home. Get a marker and write down on each box the items inside so you will have an easier time unpacking your items.

4. Professional Help

If it fits your budget, you may want to consider hiring a professional moving company to help you pack. Not only will this speed up your packing time, but these professionals have techniques they use to make packing as simple as possible. If you can afford to do so, hire the help of a professional moving company to help you pack your belongings.

5. Allow Plenty Of Time

When packing for the big move, you want to be sure you allow yourself plenty of time to pack. If you leave everything to the last minute, you may find that you won’t be as organized as you would be if you had begun the process earlier. When you allow yourself ample packing time, you can be sure you will pack more carefully without the risk of forgetting to pack any important items.

Moving is a big deal that can cause plenty of stress, especially when packing. Packing for your big move does not have to be stressful, though, if you just follow the 5 above listed packing tips. Not only will these tips help ensure the safety of important items, but it will help keep your move more easy and organized.

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