Although job relocations aren’t as common as they were several years ago, thousands of Americans still go through this process each year. If you’ve taken on a new opportunity and will be moving for a job soon, then it’s important to prepare your household. Even if your company is footing the bill for packing and moving, you still need to do work ahead of time to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. If you’re not sure where to get started, the best tips can be found below.
1. Group Items in Zipper Bags
Stock up on zipper bags because you’re going to need them. These are some of the best tools you can have for moving, whether a company is packing for you or you’re doing the work yourself. Each bag can be filled with small items from around your house, so things stay together rather than floating around in a box. While the gallon size bags will be the most useful, quart and two-gallon are also important to have on-hand.
To use these, all you have to do is group things together and place them inside. For example, if you have cotton balls, cotton swabs, and bandages in your bathroom, you can place them inside of a gallon bag for easy storage. These will also come in handy for small screws and bolts in the garage, small toys, cosmetics, socks, silverware, small “junk drawer” items, and more. Just make sure to label each bag, so you easily know what’s inside.
2. Get Rid of What You Don’t Need
Getting rid of things you don’t need will streamline the moving process and help you avoid moving unwanted items. Try to do this about a month before moving day by going through your belongings. Make a pile for things you’ll donate, things you’ll sell, and things you will throw away. Plan to have bulk items picked up long before the moving truck arrives.
3. Plan Your Moving and Working Schedule
If you’re relocating for a company you’re already working for, then you’ll have a little bit more flexibility in terms of scheduling. Your main priority is to move quickly so you can arrive at your new job without taking too many days in-between. The same goes for moving to a different company, although you’ll have to plan for when you’ll quit your current job before leaving. With so many details to figure out, it’s easy to see why a clear cut schedule is crucial.
4. Plan a Car Pickup
When it comes to moving a vehicle, it’s recommended to have it picked up closest to the move date as is possible. If you have it taken too soon, you’ll have to take cabs or rent a car, which can be expensive for an extended length of time.
5. Create a Box for Immediate Needs
Since most of your belongings will be in storage or transit (or just sitting around) when you have to go back to work, you must pack accordingly. To avoid having to buy new clothes, keep a few pairs of work clothes and shoes with you.
Looking Forward to Your New Job
By preparing your household before your job relocation, you can make the moving process a little bit easier. Always remember, the details are the most important in the grand scheme of things. Make a schedule, pack ahead of time, and plan as much as you can to avoid bumps in the road.
