Moving to a new home can seem like a great idea for many reasons. A desire for a fresh start, a bigger space, a change of scenery, or a new job can send many of us apartment hunting. But packing up your entire home and making the change is no small task. So if you’re not yet 100% certain that moving is the right choice, it’s a good idea to check your motivations. Here are the questions to ask yourself before moving — to make sure you’re really ready.
Is now the right time to move?
Moving is a big disruption to your day-to-day life. It impacts everything from your finances to your kids’ routines and friendships, not to mention your job and your time! So it is important to step back, take in the big picture, and ask whether the time is right. Of course, sometimes there isn’t much flexibility, but sometimes there is. If you have young kids that just started school, or maybe you’re in a crunch time at work, it might be best to delay the move just a little. Moving is much more enjoyable when it isn’t compounded by general life stress! (Take a look at the blog for tips on talking to your kids about moving!)
What don’t you like about your current home?
If you’re antsy to get out of your new home, make sure you know why! This information will help you choose your new home wisely. Sometimes it’s a straightforward answer: your family is expanding and you need another bedroom, or your job is relocating you to a different office. If it’s not so simple, what is it? Are you craving more space? Do you want easier access to nature or a shorter commute?
If your unhappiness in your current space is more about your job itself or something else in your life, it might be best to address those things first. Finding a new job or making some new friends can be done without uprooting your whole life for a move!
What is my long-term vision for moving?
When you’re in your 20s, moving every six months isn’t such a big deal. You haven’t accumulated much stuff yet, and you’re probably fairly flexible with your work opportunities. But once you have a partner, children, or even just a few large pieces of furniture, moving becomes more complex. So what is your long-term vision? Where do you want to live in five or ten years? What kind of lifestyle do you want to live? Are you planning to have children or grow your family in the near future? The more clear you are about your vision, the more strategic your move can be.
When should I schedule my move?
Movers across the country see a peak moving time between June and September, with the majority of moves taking place during July and August. Families with children take advantage of summer vacation, and parents take advantage of warm weather and rain-free days. But planning your relocation during peak moving season can mean that booking your movers might be tricky. Rates are typically higher during these months due to demand, and the traffic in and out of apartment buildings can bog down the moving process.
If you have the flexibility, aim to move during the shoulder season. You’ll have an easier time scheduling movers on your ideal moving day, and it will probably be easier to reserve the elevator and truck parking. Note: if you live in a luxury building, FlatRate’s Elite Moving Services can navigate your building’s requirements seamlessly!
Do I need to declutter my home?
The answer to this question is almost always yes! Before a move is an ideal time to sell, donate, or get rid of anything in your home that you don’t need or use. Even for the most organized of people, there are usually things hiding in drawers and closets that can go. You’ll save yourself time and energy (and money!) on your move by eliminating these things prior to moving day!
What additional moving services do I need?
Beyond the basic moving package of packing and transport, you may require a few add-on services. If you have a collection of antiques, high-end artwork, or an extensive electronics system, talk to your movers about your needs. A full-service moving company will be able to send a team with the appropriate skills and tools to manage the job well.
Have you decided that it’s the right time to move? We’re here to help! Let FlatRate Moving show you what stress-free moving looks like.