I’ve lived in three different cities in the past two years. Before that, I had moved constantly from place to place in various cities and towns. I can pretty much say that I have become somewhat of an expert when it comes to starting over in a new city. It sucks to pack up your life into cardboard boxes and start anew somewhere else, but it does not have to always be so terrible.

Preparation is the key. I assume you know where you are moving to and that you already have a place to live (whether rent or own) in the new city. If you do not, I suggest doing that first, and as soon as possible. After you have that settled, it is time to start planning.

You need to figure out how you are going to transport your things. There are a few options, depending on how far away the new city is. One option is renting a van or truck from UHaul. Another similar option is hiring a moving service to move your things for you instead of renting a truck to move things yourself. There is also using your own vehicle to transport whatever you can while shipping the rest through UPS or FedEx.

What also needs to be planned is how you will get there. Usually that means some sort of GPS unit or map directions through your phone (if it has that capability). Do not forget to put aside money for pit stops like gas and food, and perhaps a motel for the night. If you have bad luck like I do, also save aside money for some sort of car troubles.

You will also need to figure out if any of your friends are helping you move and in what ways. While my best friend did not help me pack my things into boxes, she kept me company on the trip when I moved, and this was something we both had decided on before my move began.

Before all of this can begin though, you need to ask yourself if moving is the right answer. I know one of my moves, if I had to start over, I wouldn’t have done it. The move cost me nearly all that I had in my savings account and I ended up moving once more a few months later.

Are you moving because of a new job or because you are feeling adventurous? Either way, make sure that the new city you are moving to has what you need, whether that is a support system of family and friends, or if it has the food you enjoy eating and the places you like to go to. Just make certain that where you are moving and the apartment/house you are moving to are where you will be happy and content in. These are all big decisions and none of them are to be taken lightly.