Check out these tips if you’re relocating for a job

Relocating can be a considerable undertaking, no matter what the reason for the move. In a recent Job Relocation Survey, the moving company Allied Van Lines found that people move for a variety of reasons.

Fifty percent of the 3,500 respondents indicated that they relocated for career advancement or money. Others indicated that they relocated because of a job transfer (12 percent), their companies moved (9 percent) or to be closer to family/relationships (8 percent).

Whether or not you are relocating by yourself or uprooting your entire family — there are strategies that can make moving because of a job go more smoothly.

Inquire about relocation assistance.

The Allied survey found that 63 percent of companies offered relocation packages for employees. That’s a considerable perk, as moving can be expensive — especially for adults who are moving to different parts of the country. Asking about relocation expenses before being offered a job can be tricky, but some companies may mention such packages in their job ads or in their initial meetings with out-of-town candidates.

Ask what relocation packages cover.

Relocation packages vary from company to company. The Allied Survey found that 54 percent of companies that offered such packages covered moving expenses, while 21 percent gave new hires a lump sum of money to use as they deemed necessary. One in five companies even sponsored trips to search for homes. Workers who are offered relocation packages should ask for the specifics so they can start creating a moving budget as soon as possible.

Emphasize organization.

Much of the stress associated with relocating can be traced to the logistics of uprooting oneself and one’s family. Anyone who is unaccustomed to making lists may want to start now, as doing so can help keep track of all the tasks that need to be completed before hitting the road. Various tasks, from canceling utilities to changing insurance policies, must be completed before moving, and it’s easy to lose track of what’s been done and what hasn’t. Maintaining a to-do list and checking off tasks as they’re completed can simplify the relocation process.

Rent your first home.

The Allied survey found that 31 percent of respondents indicated that the most challenging part of relocating for a job was finding a home, while 29 percent felt that acclimating to their new community was the most challenging aspect of their relocation.

Adults who rent their first homes upon relocating can remove some of the pressure to find the perfect home, knowing full well their first home in their new community will be temporary. If possible, rent in a location that makes it easy to immerse yourself in your new community, which should make the adjustment easier. In addition, place items that are unnecessary for day-to-day life in storage. Having some of your possessions already packed should make your next move less stressful.