Moving across the country can be an exciting adventure, but it’s also a highly stressful situation. There are dozens of details that need your attention. By employing some tips and suggestions for seasoned movers, you can eliminate some of the stress and trust that you’ll have a more successful relocation.

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Before You Leave

1. Employ the One Year Rule

This is a good time to trim your belt and get rid of things that are just taking up space. As you sort through your clothes, tools, and personal belongings, set aside anything you haven’t used within the past year. Anything in that pile doesn’t need to make the trip. Throw it away or sell it.

2. No Need to Pack Your Clothes

Moving vans are expensive and the more space you need, the bigger the van you’ll need. You can cut down on the number of boxes you’ll need if you don’t unpack your dressers. Simply wrap them in industrial plastic wrap to keep the drawers from falling open and move the entire dresser into the van. This takes up less space and makes unpacking that much easier. If you’re using an interstate moving company, you can leave it to them to figure out loading the truck.

3. Move with a Plan

If you develop a written plan for your move, you’re less likely to forget to take care of vital concern. By writing all of these details out, you’ll have that visual reminder and, as you include the points, you do remember, other important tasks may also come to mind. It may be helpful to download a checklist app on your mobile device and track these details there.

Once You Get to Your Destination

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1. Expect a Higher Cost of Living

Chances are you already know to expect to pay more since you’ve already arranged for a place to live. While California is the most expensive state on the west coast, places like Seattle and Vancouver are also pricey. This is partly because more people are heading to the west coast. For instance, the Seattle population has grown from 560,000 in 2000 to 660,000 in 2015. The increased demand that puts on resources has driven the cost of living higher.

2. Finding a Home

If you haven’t found a place to live yet, expect your hunt to be long and frustrating. Vacancies are in high demand, and even in neighboring Vancouver, the vacancy rate is just under 1%. Most apartments only stay on the market for a day or less, so be sure to move quickly, when you find something you do like.

3. People are More Relaxed

Most visitors to the area comment that people seem less rushed in the Seattle/Vancouver area and that includes their driving habits. Plan ahead, when you need to make an appointment because traffic is often heavy.

4. Talk to Your Neighbors About Utilities

Be sure to discuss utilities and other services with people in your neighborhood, before you sign up for anything. This may put a crimp in your family’s love of modern living, but it can end up saving you money. Neighbors may point you towards less expensive service providers, or they may offer you money-saving tips.

Making your way to a new city and getting acclimated, once there, can be a complicated adventure. By planning ahead and tackling one challenge at a time, you can make a move easier and more enjoyable.

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