Many of us have moved short distances, but sometimes a new job or other opportunity requires us to move to a completely different part of the country, or even to another country entirely. These moves require a little more planning than your typical move across town.
Long-distance moves are generally more costly than shorter moves. If you’re driving, the fuel costs are higher, you may need to stay in hotels for several nights, and you’ll be eating out every day. If you’re traveling overseas, the cost to transport your belongings can be exorbitant. The farther away you’re moving, the more sense it makes to really pare your possessions down to the bare essentials; it will save on packing time as well.
Depending on where you’re going, and for how long, you may not be able to take all of your belongings with you. Chances are there’s a self-storage facility nearby with an inexpensive plan for lengthy storage rental. Ask friends and colleagues for referrals to places with good reputations.
If your move is going to cause you to be separated from loved ones, make the most of the time you have together before you leave. Purchase plenty of prepaid calling cards so that you can stay in touch.
Moving can be hard on children, so be sure to spend lots of time helping them prepare emotionally. Try to help them view the move as an exciting new adventure, but remember that change can be frightening to young children, so be sensitive to their feelings.
If you’re moving to a foreign country, you may want to pick up some travel guides and language learning tapes while you’re at the bookstore. Learning as much as you can about your new home before you get there will make things much easier for you.
Focus on the benefits of your move rather than on the effort involved. Even if you’re moving out of necessity rather than by choice, new opportunities await you, so approach them with a positive attitude and the determination to make the most of them.
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