Tips for Couples Planning a Big Move to Start a New Chapter

Moving to a new city with your partner is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can embark on together.

A new beginning. The start of a new chapter in your lives. An opportunity to build something special from scratch.

But it also comes with tons of planning…

Moving is incredibly stressful. In fact, research has shown that unmarried couples tend to fight 46% more during the moving process than those who are married. That’s huge.

Luckily for you.

Planning ahead with your partner and a good vehicle transport timeline can simplify things exponentially. From researching logistics to shipping both your cars across the country…everything is easier when you’re prepared.

In this article, we cover:

• Why You Need a Moving Plan As a Couple
• How to Perfect Your Vehicle Transport Timeline
• How Couples Should Budget For Moving
• How to Keep Your Relationship Healthy When Moving Stress Hits

Why You Need a Moving Plan As a Couple

Here’s the thing…

Most couples fly by the seat of their pants when it comes to moving. They don’t have a game plan. Boxes get packed. Arguments start. The plan changes week by week.

Avoid this.

Having a well-oiled game plan keeps both partners involved every step of the way and prevents nasty arguments from sidetracking the moving process.

Grab some paper and write down a detailed moving plan. Include timelines, budgets, responsibilities and more. Figure out who’s doing what and when. One partner can tackle setting up utilities and filling out change of address paperwork while the other handles vehicle shipping deadlines and researching moving companies.

Communication is key here. Couples that plan together stay together… when moving.

Your vehicles also need a plan. Remember, you have TWO cars that need to end up at your new place safely. Researching and booking with premium car transport companies should be done as early in the moving process as possible.

Booking your vehicle shipping four to six weeks out is ideal for most couples. You’ll lock in better availability for preferred dates and avoid the stress of last-minute bookings.

How to Perfect Your Vehicle Transport Timeline

Moving vehicles across the country is often overlooked by couples during the planning stage.

Here’s why it matters.

Imagine landing in your new city with no car and no means of transportation. It’s not fun.

Total transit time for most cross country vehicle moves ranges from 7-14 days depending on distance. Moves of under 500 miles can be completed in as little as 3-5 business days. However…

The pickup window can take up to 5 business days before your vehicle actually starts its journey to your new city.

Plan for not having access to your vehicles during this period. Budget for a rental car one day prior to arrival in your new city and one day after. Your vehicles should arrive just in time to kick those rental cars to the curb.

Easy tips to make sure your vehicle transport timeline runs smoothly:

• Always book transport at least 4-6 weeks in advance
• Use an open vehicle transport carrier to get vehicles moved faster at a cheaper rate
• Flexibility with your pickup/drop-off times will allow for better rates
• Take before photos of your car prior to drop off for liability

How Couples Should Budget For Moving

Money is the root of all moving stresses.

Research has indicated that 38% of all movers ended up spending more money than they originally budgeted for.

Who wants that kind of stress?

Planning for everything that “might” happen during your big move is the way to go. Create a budget that has at least 10-15% of your total funds allotted for unforeseen moving costs. Packing materials, temporary storage units, pet transportation, and vehicle transport costs all add up quickly.

Here’s a quick list to use as a budget starting point:

• Price out professional movers or a truck rental
• Get quotes for both vehicle transports
• Deposit on new apartment including first month and last month
• Travel costs to get you and your partner to your new city
• Unanticipated home setup fees such as utilities

Keep in mind most couples will not have an immediate stream of income coming in as soon as they move. If you and your partner are changing jobs, it’s a good idea to have 3-6 months worth of expenses saved up just in case.

How to Keep Your Relationship Healthy When Moving Stress Hits

Moving is hard on even the strongest relationships.

Expect increased stress, less sleep, and more frustrations. Two people in love are going to start yelling about silly things like how to pack a kitchen.

Don’t let it happen to you.

Use these simple techniques to keep your relationship healthy during moving week.

Split responsibilities evenly between each partner and check-in with each other. Not about who’s doing what… but how each person is feeling emotionally.

Make time for one another. Sure, you’re both busy packing boxes but make time to sit down for 30 minutes together. Grab coffee or take a walk outside. You’d be surprised how helpful this simple task is.

Celebrate after the move is over. Live in your new city for a week and make the most of it. Go on a date night, check out local restaurants, and simply explore your new neighbourhood.

Remember why you’re doing this together.

Settling Into Your First Week in a New City

Congrats on making it through moving week! Now it’s time to settle into your new life.

There are some things you can do to make that first week smoother.

Take care of the necessities first. Sleep should be your number one priority. Find your comfortable sleeping arrangement and get plenty of rest. Next, you’ll want to have everything you need to store and prepare food. Fill your fridge with groceries and keep snacks on hand at all times.

Figure out your vehicles.

Bringing Everything Together

Moving as a couple is difficult but with good planning, it can be one of the best times of your lives.

Take away tips:

• Always overestimate when planning your move
• Book your vehicle shipping timeline as soon as possible
• Split the responsibilities and communicate with one another
• Plan, plan, and plan some more

Remember these tips and you and your partner will be just fine!

Starting fresh is scary but your new lives await you.

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