Moving can be one of the most exciting events in your life. New city (or just a new zipcode), new terrain, new people – for many the perfect way to hit reset on life. But that free spirit mentality only lasts so long once confronted with the realities of moving. Then comes the stressors of a new job, finding a place to live, new social circles, not to mention the move itself. Moving is considered one of the top stress activities in life but with this quick guide we hope to help make moving a breeze.

Are you flying, driving, shipping or towing your belongings? As the to-do’s pile up, the dollar signs follow, but armed with the right tips you can avoid some unforeseen hiccups on the road.

Uproot with Ease, Your Guide to Make Moving a Breeze

Location, Location, Location
– Moving on a whim? Do your research. How does the cost of living compare? Job market? Weather? These characteristics will all factor into your overall happiness post-move.
– No car? Check out the new city’s walkability score and how effective their public transit systems are first.
– Yes car? If the climate is different where you are headed you may need to make some adjustments to your vehicle such as all-season or snow tires. It is also worth taking note of parking. While many cities may offer street parking, some may require you pay for a garage.
– Weather change? While your instinct may be to layer up for cold weather or pare down for warmer climates ahead of time, it may be worth it to wait. Unless your are headed from 80 and sunny to 10 and snowy, scope out what residents are actually wearing. That born and bred neighbor will likely be able to give you better advice than a weather forecast.

The Long Haul
– Driving? Plan your route, and a backup, ahead of time. If your travel time amounts to multiple days pinpoint where you would like to stop and stay. Try to avoid big cities during heavy traffic times and trade off drivers if possible. Also remember, it’s a road trip! Maybe you can check out some landmarks or the largest ball of yarn en route!
– Towing? Consider your options. There are many different moving services providers today including U-Haul, Budget, etc. Companies offer multiple sizes in vehicles from minivans to mac trucks, but check to see if your nearest location offers the size you have in mind, and if they allow you to drop off the vehicle at a sister location.
– Shipping? When you consider the cost of a rental, gas, and hotel stays for some moves, shipping your belongings may make more sense. Companies like Pods and U-Haul offer such services which can include storage and the option of them packing the unit for you.

New Digs
– Renting? If Craigslist is your go-to consider additional sources like Trulia, Apartments.com, as well as local realty companies. Many real estate companies include lists of available properties, but call and find out if there are others soon to be available that are not showing on the site. Also inquire as to whether maintenance is performed between tenants, what is expected in terms of personal maintenance, can Fido come, and what may or may not be included in the rent price, i.e. electric, water, etc.
– Brand new? Explore the different neighborhoods, preferably during a trip pre-move. Does the social scene cater to young adults or established families? How convenient are things like laundry, groceries, etc?
– Downsizing? Do a purge before the move. Donate any clothing, kitchenwares, furniture that either won’t fit or won’t belong. Chances are you will be doing another overhaul post-move.

Getting Social
– Exercise? Join a local yoga studio or fitness club. Running and cycling meet ups are not only a great way to meet people, but also to explore your new home. Use the MINDBODY App or head over to the local recreation center to find activities near you.
– Networking? Whether it’s through a social-based platform like Meetup or a local “young professionals” group, there are a number of online sources to network in a social or business setting. Two personal favorites are Meet My Dog and Supper Club.
– Lend a hand? Volunteering will not only give you all those positive feels, but getting out in the community will help you learn more about the city and its residents. Not sure where to go? Volunteer Match can help with that.

Most importantly, keep an open mind. Living in a new place gives us the opportunity to learn more about ourselves and this great, big world we live in. Don’t let the burden of packing and hauling and unpacking cast a shadow over the new people you will meet and experiences you will have. Plan ahead and take the plunge!