What You Need to Know When Relocating for a Job

You may have an opportunity on the table to expand your career, snag a better title, and make more money. There’s just one catch. You have to move to do it.

If you’re relocating for work, it’s exciting and stressful at the same time. Here are some things to be prepared to handle during the process.

Closely Review Your Relocation Package

If you’re already employed by the company you’re relocating for (instead of moving for a new job), ask about a relocation package. Some packages cover all moving and temporary housing expenses, which add up to a bundle. If items aren’t covered, get quotes as soon as possible, so you can budget how much of your own money you’ll be spending.

A Schedule Makes Everything Better

Set the moving day first, then work backwards to fit in everything you must do for the move. Add deadlines within the schedule as milestones to keep you focused and on track. Using a calendar is essential to ensure you aren’t pulling your hair out trying to finish everything up the week before moving day.

Don’t Take Things You Don’t Need

A fresh start with a new position can mean starting fresh in other parts of your life, too. Use this move to clear out the clutter. Donate things you don’t use or that won’t fit into your new lifestyle, and toss items that are out of style or broken.

Set Up Services Beforehand

Call or go online and set up your utilities and internet at your new residence. Find a new doctor, dentist, yard person, insurance agent, and other professional services while you’re at it. Handling these tasks before you move gets them off your plate and helps you settle into your new town faster.

Hire Movers Way in Advance

Movers book up, especially during the busy summer months. Start reaching out to moving companies as soon as you have your moving date nailed down. Get two to three quotes, and check references before making your decision. You should also require a written contract to avoid mishaps or costly misunderstandings.

Work With a Reputable Real Estate Agent

If you’re selling your current residence and/or buying a new home one in your new location, it’s no time to go it alone. You have a hundred other things to handle — trying to show your home and find a new one shouldn’t be on the list. Hire experienced real estate agents in both places. They can do much of the legwork for you while keeping the selling and buying process moving forward.

Keep a Must-Have Bag Nearby

Sometimes it can take several days to find things after a move, which isn’t ideal if you must report to the office within a couple of days. Pack a big suitcase and/or box of essential you’ll need access to right away. This includes clothing, toiletries, and documents you may need for your job. Keep them close to you during the move to avoid desperately searching for them on the first day in your new office.

After Moving, Let Everyone Know

You shouldn’t rely on the post office honoring your mail forwarding plan forever. Once you’re in your new place, send out change of address notes to your contact list. Get your driver’s license and tags changed, and inform your creditors of the address change. Report your new address to the IRS and register to vote.

Start Connecting Before the Move

You may dread feeling alone for the first few months in your new place until you make friends. Don’t wait until you’ve relocated to start building a network. Reach out to friends and acquaintances living in your new area and see if they can introduce you around. Join a gym, church, and a hobby or activity group to get to know people. Go online and join your neighborhood’s Facebook page to start mingling with your neighbors.

Relocating for a job can be a stressful time, as it’s much different from moving for other reasons. With proper planning and sticking to a schedule, you can get everything done and be moved into your place without too much angst or out-of-pocket costs.