5 common questions about relocating

Moving house is one of the most stressful life events you can go through. There’s packing, organising payment on a new house, enrolling the kids in a new school and juggling a new job. It all takes its toll, and it’s magnified 100% if you’re moving across country, or even across oceans.

If you’re planning to relocate, no doubt you have a lot of questions. You’re not alone. Here are just a few of the most common queries people have about relocating, with answers that will hopefully make the whole process go much more smoothly.

What are some commonly forgotten items?

There’s nothing worse than moving hundreds of miles to your new home, only to realise you’ve left something vital behind.

People rarely forget the big things, like furniture or appliances; it’s the little things that get overlooked, and the most commonly forgotten items are usually documents. The important pieces of paper that sit in a drawer for years and years, and then get left behind precisely when you need them.

Before you move, make sure to go through all your papers with a fine-toothed comb, so you don’t forget something essential.

How do you help children adjust?

If you’re a parent, your children have probably been one of the most important factors in your decision to relocate. Taking them out of school and away from their friends, extended family and routines can be hugely stressful for them, but there are plenty of things you can do to win them over to the idea . . . if, indeed, you are moving over greater distances.

The main thing is to make them feel involved. Let them pick out their room in the new house and imagine how they’d like it decorated. Talk to them about the area, including all the activities they can do there. Buy them postcards they can send to their old friends. In conclusion, frame it as an adventure and opportunity, while accepting and addressing their concerns.

Any tips for moving overseas?

International relocation comes with its own set of challenges, though none of them are insurmountable.

It’s important to do your research. You may need to get a visa, bearing in mind how long it will last once you’re out there. There may be tax implications, and unfamiliar foreign laws you’ll need to adhere to. You should also research factors such as gas prices, the local economy, problems at ports, and whether there’s any civil unrest.

What about car transport?

It may be that you’ll be able to drive to your new location, but if not, it’s time to hire a professional auto transport company.

Companies like A1 Auto Transport can move your car, van or motorcycle over state lines, international borders and oceans. Fill out the form on their website with the make, model and year of your vehicle and the details of your move to receive a free cost estimate.

If you’re in need of vehicle transport services, visit A1autotransport.com/auto-transport-near-me/ to find out more.

What should I bargain for in my job relocation package?

Every job relocation situation is unique, but there are certain things your employer should take into consideration when offering to move you to a new office or department.

The first is the cost of shipping household goods. Moving your whole life can cost thousands. Secondly there’s the cost of selling a house, which is always the most expensive part of the relocation process. Hopefully your boss will offer to cover the percentage taken by real estate agents. Next is obviously the cost of purchasing a new home at your new location. Also, you may need temporary accommodation between leaving your current home and being able to access your new one. Lastly, you may require tax assistance. Some areas of particular countries have a higher tax rate than others, and your employer should take this into account.

Relocating is never easy, but by being prepared, you’ll soon be able to begin your new life.