Are you dreaming of a fresh start in a new city? Moving to another part of the country can be exciting and liberating, but it’s important to take some time to consider what’s involved in such a big geographic change and all the things you have to think about before committing to a cross-country move. From housing costs to job opportunities, there are many things you should keep in mind before taking this major step.
If you’re thinking about moving to Wichita from another U.S. city, you’ll be pleased to know that the cost of living is 9% lower than the national average. Not only that, but housing is a whopping 29% cheaper compared to the U.S. average. This means you’ll not only save money on rent or mortgage payments but also on everyday expenses like groceries and utilities.
So, let’s dive into some key factors you should consider before moving across the country.
1. Make a Moving Checklist:
Before you move across the country, it’s crucial to make a detailed moving checklist. This will help you stay organized and on top of all the tasks that need to be completed before the big move. Your checklist should include items such as decluttering your belongings, researching moving companies, setting up utilities at your new home, and notifying important contacts about your change of address.
Having a moving checklist will ensure that you don’t forget anything important and will help reduce the stress of moving.
2. Call in the Professionals:
Moving across the country is a huge task, and you definitely can’t do it alone. So, why not let the experts handle all the hassle for you? Hire professional Wichita movers who will take good care of your items and make sure they safely reach your new home.
The best part? These professional movers can even help you with packing and unpacking, saving you a ton of time and energy. With their skills and experience, they’ll make sure your items are packed efficiently and securely to withstand a long-distance move. They might even offer insurance options for some extra peace of mind.
So, say goodbye to all the stress and just take a deep breath, knowing that your precious items will be delivered securely and on time.
3. Get your Pet Ready to Travel:
Pets are an important part of our families, and it’s crucial to make sure they’re well taken care of when moving across the country. Whether you have a dog, cat, or any other furry friend, there are certain preparations that need to be made before traveling long distances with them.
First and foremost, make sure your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations and has any necessary travel documents or health certificates. You may also want to talk to your veterinarian about potential anxiety medications for your pet if they tend to get nervous during car rides or flights.
During the actual move, it’s important to keep your pet as comfortable and stress-free as possible. This may mean setting up a cozy spot for them in the car or booking a pet-friendly hotel if you’re making multiple stops along the way. And don’t forget to pack enough food, water, and their favorite toys to keep them happy during the journey.
4. Manage Utilities, Mail, and Essential Records:
Before moving across the country, it’s important to make sure your utilities are set up at your new home and that you’ve taken care of any outstanding bills or fees. This includes things like electricity, water, internet, and cable services.
Additionally, don’t forget to update your address with all necessary contacts, such as banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and the post office. You don’t want any important mail or packages being sent to your old address after you’ve already moved.
It’s also a good idea to make copies of important documents like birth certificates, passports, and insurance papers before the move. This way, you’ll have backup records in case anything gets lost during the process.
5. Pack a Moving Day Essentials Bag:
Moving day can be chaotic, and it’s easy to lose track of essential items in the midst of all the chaos. That’s why it’s essential to pack a moving day essentials bag that includes all your must-have items like toiletries, medications, important documents, and a change of clothes.
Having this bag easily accessible will save you from having to dig through boxes seeking these items on the first day in your new home. It’s also a good idea to have a separate bag or box for any valuables or sentimental items that you want to personally transport with you during the move.
6. Pamper Yourself:
Moving is a physically and emotionally taxing process, so don’t forget to take care of yourself amidst all the chaos. Make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and treat yourself with self-care activities like a spa day or a relaxing night in.
It’s also important to remember that adjusting to a new city may take some time, so be patient with yourself. Take the time to explore your new surroundings, meet new people, and try out new things.
7. Say Goodbye to Family and Friends:
If you’re moving across the country, chances are you’ll be leaving behind family and friends. It’s important to take some time to say goodbye and have proper farewells before embarking on your new journey. Consider hosting a going-away party or organizing individual meetups with loved ones.
Don’t forget to exchange contact details so you can stay in touch even though you’ll be living in different places. Moving to a new city doesn’t mean you have to completely leave behind the relationships you’ve built over the years.
Conclusion
Moving across the country can be a challenging and daunting task, but with the right research, preparation, and communication skills, it can make for a fun and manageable experience. Whether you’re relocating or simply want to explore new cultures, taking the leap to move across the country is definitely worth it. Even though there will be obstacles along the way, it’s important to remember that this experience is a testament to your personal strength and resilience. Now that you’ve considered all of these things, take the initiative today and start making plans towards starting your new journey.
