10 Crucial Tips for Relocating to a New City

Regardless of whether you are moving to a new city in state or to an altogether different part of the country, the moving process can be extremely stressful.  On top of arranging moving your physical things, you also have to get yourself acclimated to the new city, a new neighborhood, as well as potentially a new job.  To offer you some assistance as you go through the moving process, here are 10 tips to help make the transition to your new city as seamless as possible.

1. Get Your Finances in Order

Before your move, you must have your finances in order so that you’ll be able to meet all of your responsibilities.  The first few months of relocating will rapidly expend your finances, so be extra cognizant of your finances so as to avoid risk of going into debt or possibly being broke within a few months of moving.

2. Update Your Records

As you prepare to move, you’ll need to update your accounts.  Make sure that all of the information concerning your medical records, bank accounts, insurance, and driver’s license are up to date.

3. Do Research on the New Neighborhood

Before you select your new neighborhood, make sure that you have done your due diligence and research it thoroughly.  Look up the different prices for renting an apartment.  Research the crime rates in the area.  Look into the surrounding areas and see if there are places you need to be close to nearby.

4. Network

If you have friends and family in the city where you are moving to, speak with them.  They can give you helpful advice and information about the city.  Use social media and other avenues to help you establish social and professional connections throughout the city as early on as possible.

5. Research Different Transportation Methods

Depending on the city that you are moving to, you may have to make a decision concerning whether you would like to drive a car or rely on public transportation to get around the city.  If you have a vehicle, research the different parking and storage options in the city.  If you will be using public transportation, research which bus or train lines in your area are reliable.  Factor these transportation options into your home search.

6. Find Important Places

Once you arrive in your new city, explore the neighborhood(s) to establish your go-to stores.  For the essentials find yourself a good gas station and grocery store nearby. For food and entertainment options you can stroll around and see what catches your eye.

7. Check Your Appliances

As you prepare to move, make sure that all of your appliances such as your stove, washer, and dryer are functioning properly.  In the event that one of your appliances is damaged during the move, make sure that your items are insured.

8. Set Goals

Take some time to sit down and think about why you are moving.  Consider writing down some short term and long term goals that you would like to accomplish in your new city.

9. Look Over Your Boxes and Furniture

Check all of your boxes and furniture to ensure that nothing was damaged during the move.  While you are conducting your home inventory, if you have noticed any damage to your items, speak with your insurance company to start the process of filing a claim.

10. Gather Your Receipts

Keep all of your receipts and documentation involving your move in a safe and secure place.  Find your Bill of Lading and payment receipt.  You may be able to claim your move on your next tax return, so keep all of your receipts nearby.

These tips should help your transition to a new city go as smoothly as possible. The quicker it takes for you to get settled into your new surroundings, the more you’ll feel at home.


About the Author

Hayden Stewart is a contributing writer and media specialist for the Allied Van Lines Moving Blog. He regularly produces content for a variety of lifestyle and home blogs, based around the transitional obstacles that come with moving, settling into a new home, and more.