How to Plan a Low-Stress Relocation

Relocating for a new job is a massive undertaking, one that needs to be planned in detail. Putting together checklists, creating timelines, and making sure everyone in the family is on the same page can smooth the process and reduce move-related stressors for everyone.

Create a Plan

When you get a job offer and agree to move, you’ve likely got a million “to do” lists in your head. Start by creating a timetable of what needs to happen and when - working backward from your start date. Everyone’s timeline will be different, but the key things to consider include when you need to secure a place to live when you need to be finished packing when you need movers (or a DIY truck or pod) to arrive, and when you need to have your belongings delivered, or arrive at your new destination. From there you can build in the details associated with each part of the move.

Find a Place to Live

If you already know the new city and are ready to buy a home, that’s great - connect with a realtor who can help. If you’re still learning about various neighborhoods and the quality of local school systems, consider a rental. This will give you time to get settled, get the lay of the land, and make longer-term decisions once you’re more comfortable. You’ll want to factor in access to amenities and the commute distance from your new job. You can narrow your online search using filters that allow you to sort by price, size, and amenities, and even take 3D tours. For example, start by searching, “Seattle rental.”

Plan Your Move

If you’re one of the lucky few whose new employer pays for their move, great! Connect with human resources and make arrangements. If not, you’ll want to get in-person written estimates from several moving companies. Make sure you understand how insurance works and what type of supplies and services they offer. If you have delicate, high-value, or sentimental items, you may want to pack those things yourself and potentially even transport them in your personal vehicle to protect against damage. 

Pack in Organized Fashion

If you’re like most people, you probably have more stuff than you realize. According to Extra Space Storage, moving is a great time to donate or sell excess household items - especially things that are large, heavy, and expensive to move. Once you know what you want to take, label each box with colored stickers per room, and per family member. The last things to pack include personal devices, medications, clothing, and personal items - all of which will ideally be kept with you during the move.

Plan for Emotions

Moving an entire family to a new location can be emotional. According to Bright Horizons, your kids may be sad about leaving friends or have anxiety about starting at a new school. You, too, may be experiencing some anxiety around your new job. Be open and honest with one another, talk about the benefits of your new hometown, and explore it online. Plan for kids to stay connected to friends and family via video chat and visits. Communicate that while it’s a big change, change brings new opportunities for you all to embrace.

Making a big move can be stressful, so take good care of yourself and your family in the process. Eat well, stay organized, and make sure pets are secured and cared for during the move. Take regular breaks and explore points of interest if there’s time. Keep a positive attitude and look at the relocation as a family adventure!

United Country Real Estate is the largest seller of lifestyle, land, and country properties. Headquartered in Kansas City, MO, United Country is the leading, fully integrated network of conventional and auction real estate professionals in the nation. We can be your advocate when it comes to selling your existing home or finding the perfect new home, no matter where you’re going!  Reach out by phone or email for more information.

About the author: 

Natalie Jones enjoys writing about home buying and hopes to inspire homeowners of all stages to enjoy the perks of homeownership. She created homeownerbliss.info to help soon-to-be homeowners in making their decision during house-hunting. Natalie also loves spending time with her husband working on DIY projects for their home.