Starting over in a new city is one of life’s grand adventures, but it can feel overwhelming when your moving timeline is short. Whether it’s a new job or family situation that has you scrambling to get settled, if you have only a few weeks to get to your new city, every second counts. Here are some guidelines on how to fast-track your move.
Before the Move
Don’t get caught up in over-planning. When you have to move quickly, you need to be in action mode. Start by setting aside one morning to make phone calls. Schedule movers, contact your utility and Internet companies, and reach out to friends for help with packing. Impartial eyes can speed packing along by helping you decide what to take and what you should donate.
Get referrals to doctors, dentists, veterinarians and a new trainer or hairstylist to help make your transition quick and painless. Ask your current practitioners if they have connections in your new city. If you currently rent, you’ll need to contact your property manager about the details of terminating your contract.
Online rental sites are the best resource for finding housing in a new city on short notice. As soon as you know your new address, change it with the post office, your bank and credit card companies, and insurance companies. That will be one less thing to remember when you reach your new digs.
If you have time to squeeze in a quick trip to your new city, book tickets immediately. When you’re there, check out neighborhoods, familiarize yourself with the new office, figure out your commute and set up services like Internet and other utilities.
Find out if your new job has a concierge service and get to know them immediately. Let them know when you’ll arrive and ask for their help so you can hit the ground running.
The First Day in Your New City
Get down to business right away by confirming delivery details with your moving company. If you purchased new furniture, coordinate delivery for those items. Verify that utilities are set up and ready to go, and schedule installation for Internet and/or cable.
Set yourself up for success by locating the nearest places to pick up essentials like coffee, wine, toiletries and household necessities like toilet paper.
A house full of boxes can be overwhelming, so don’t attack them all at once; set up your bedroom first. Make the bed and put away clothing and shoes. An orderly sanctuary will give you the rejuvenation you need to power through the rest of your move.
Identify places that deliver — groceries, dinner, dry cleaning and anything else that will make your new life as simple as possible. Put these resources to use immediately by ordering takeout and catching your breath at the end of this hectic moving day.
After the Move
Once the dust of moving day has settled, it’s time to get acquainted with your new home. Get to know the neighbors by waving hello and introducing yourself on the way to the mailbox. You’ll feel safer and more at home when everyone you run into isn’t a stranger.
Quickly get back to your usual routine by finding a new gym or running trail. If you do yoga or attend a church, start checking out studios and services. Use Meetup and LinkedIn to build a new social circle of people who share your profession, interests and hobbies.
Consult local event calendars and start experiencing the culture of your new city. Ask people at the office or in your neighborhood for their recommendations for live music, farmers markets or the best spots for a happy hour drink.
Keep in touch with friends and family. Let everyone know your new address. Send out “I moved!” announcements via snail mail or email. Set up Skype or another video chat service so you can catch up with loved ones face-to-face.
Moving your life is daunting, especially when you don’t have much time. These fast-tracking tips will help you maintain your sanity and start off on the right foot in your new city.