Helpful advice for a smooth transition into your new city
We’ve heard it said that moving is the third most stressful event in life, topped only by death and divorce. Between the process of simultaneously securing a new home, finding your way in a new city and building a new support network, relocating for a job only adds to the burden.
That’s where Leaders comes in. Call us crazy, but we love moving—and we love making your transition as stress-free as possible. Our moving and storage company has mastered the relocation process over two decades of successful moves. Take a page out of our book to face your job-related move head on.
Packing it up
Take this opportunity to go through all of your belongings. Trash or donate any non-essentials, and sort through all your long overdue paperwork. There’s no use in carting years’ worth of papers, mail and old school work across state lines, only to stash it away at your destination.
When you start packing your items that made the cut, make sure to label each box on the top and sides. When boxes are stacked, you won’t be able to read your scrawl on the lids. Or, you can just have your moving company handle all of the packing for you.
If you haven’t secured a lease in your new city, put your things into storage until you find a permanent place.
Inquire with your employer on moving expenses
Ted Stimpson, president and CEO of MyMove.com, tells Forbes, “As with any move, relocating for a job can be a complicated and stressful process. But the good news is that you’ve been recognized as a valuable asset to your new company or office, and employers are typically more than willing to help make your transition a smooth one.”
Many companies are glad to offer monetary and logistical help with your relocation. Ryan Kahn, a career coach and author of Hired! The Guide for the Recent Grad, says it’s up to you to learn what your company offers. Some employers will front costs such as house hunting trips, transporting your cars, assistance in selling or buying your home, help figuring out how to rent out a property, and professionals to settle you into your new home.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate
If you discover that your employer doesn’t typically assist with relocation, you can still make your case. Stimson advises researching moving costs like quotes from professional movers and storage so that you can approach your employer with a detailed estimate of what your move could cost you. Choose a moving company with guaranteed pricing for a full-proof case.
Deduct moving expenses
Even if your employer doesn’t offer compensation for your move, you could still be eligible for tax deductions. General tax deduction requirements you need to meet when relocating include: the move must be a result of a new job; your new home must be at least 50 miles from your old home and your old job; and you must work full-time for at least 39 weeks during the first year of your move. If you’re self-employed, you must work full time for at least 39 weeks during the first year, and for a total of at least 78 weeks during the first two years immediately following your arrival.
The IRS even allows you to deduct transportation and lodging expenses for yourself and household members while moving from your old home to your new home, as well as the cost of packing, crating and shipping your things. You might also be able to include the cost of storing and insuring these items while in transit.
Research reliable moving and storage companies
Need to present moving options to your employer? Ready to finally get moving? Find a trustworthy moving and storage company that offers guaranteed pricing.
At Leaders, our unique pricing model means that you don’t have to worry about any surprise charges.The price you pay won’t go up, regardless of how long the move takes.
Our professional, efficient, expertly-trained master movers will carefully transport all of your belongings to your new home. Give us a call at 1-800-481-6843 or get started on your guaranteed quote online today.
