Relocating across the country brings a lot of changes, and climate is likely to be one of them. Moving to a different climate implies more necessary steps need to be completed before the move, but there is no reason to worry – we got you covered. With our simple guide, you’ll be ready to face all weather-related changes and make your transition as smooth as possible.
If you wish to know how to make a move to a different climate successful, just read on
Research the Climate of the Place That Will Become Your New Home
Alongside exploring the cost of living in the new city, safest neighborhoods, and nearby amenities, once you decide where to live, you’ll also need to learn more about predominant weather. It can determine the types of clothing you will keep when relocating, the activities you can participate in, and even how much electric energy you will use in your house. Here are some relocation tips for researching and understanding your area’s climate:
Understand your new climate zone
The United States has been divided into nine climate regions, each with its own weather patterns and seasonal fluctuations. Knowing which zone your new home lies in can help you prepare for what kind of weather to expect throughout the year and plan accordingly. For example, you should prepare for continental climate when relocating to Chicago or Des Moines. On the other hand, you’ll have to adjust to the hot, subtropical temperatures once you move to Dallas, for example.
Research average temperature ranges
Even though two places may be part of the same climate zone, they may still have drastically different temperatures depending on their location within that zone. Researching average temperature ranges for your specific area can help give you a better idea of what kinds of temperatures (and humidity levels) to expect.
Analyze precipitation patterns
Just as important as temperature is precipitation – the amount and when it tends to occur throughout the year. Some areas have heavy snowfall during winter months, while others experience more rain during spring or summer. When relocating to a new state, knowing what kind of precipitation patterns exist can help you decide which outdoor activities to participate in. Also, analyzing precipitation patterns will give insight into where flooding may occur so that you know which properties are less likely to suffer water damage.
Learn How to Get Used to Different Temperatures
It can take some time to adjust to new temperatures and weather patterns. It’s best not to jump right into the extreme temperatures when you first move. If you’re coming from a cold area, start by getting used to milder temperatures. The same goes if you’re relocating to a cold climate from a much warmer zone – ease into colder weather so your body can adjust properly. It means dressing up warmly, avoiding spending too much time outside, and so on.
Note that adjusting to changes in temperature can take its toll on your body, so it’s important that you stay hydrated and get plenty of rest while adjusting. Staying well-hydrated helps keep your body cool if it gets too hot. Getting enough sleep, on the other hand, helps regulate your internal thermostat and allows your body time to recover after exposure to extreme temperatures.
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Your Pets Will Need Adjusting, as Well
If you’re relocating with pets, don’t forget that they will need to adjust to the change in weather as well! It is crucial to plan ahead and make sure your furry friends are properly cared for during the transition. The first step in preparing your pets for a change is understanding their individual needs. Some animals may have greater difficulty adjusting than others.
For example, breeds like huskies and malamutes are better suited for colder climates due to their thick fur coats and larger bodies, whereas small breeds like chihuahuas may do better in warmer climates due to their smaller size and thin fur coats. The better you understand your pets’ needs, the more you’ll be able to help them adapt to the different weather.
Finally, it is important to get prepared ahead of time by purchasing all necessary relocation essentials for your pet. This may include items such as jackets (for cold climates) or cooling mats (for extremely hot temperatures). The last thing you want is for your pet(s) to be uncomfortable once arriving at the new home – so plan accordingly!
The whole family will need to adjust to the new and different surroundings - including the pets
Dress for the Weather
When first adjusting to new temperatures, it’s important that you dress accordingly. Dressing too warmly or too lightly can make adjusting even more difficult. Whether you’re transitioning to a cold or warm region, note that layers are a great solution since they provide flexibility – you can add or remove them depending on how hot or cold you feel at any given moment.
You’ll Likely Have to Buy New Clothes
Think about items that are both practical and stylish, like sweaters and rain boots if it rains often or light cardigans if the days tend to be warm but not too humid. Invest in good-quality pieces that are versatile enough to transition from season to season. Remember, even if it’s cold now doesn’t mean it won’t get hot later.
Additionally, make sure any clothes purchased have room for layers. This way, they will still work if temperatures suddenly drop or rise during different times of the year. On the other hand, it might be better to leave shopping sprees for after the move in order to reduce your relocation expenses checklist.
Donate and Sell Clothes That Don’t Suit New Temperatures
Donating and selling are two great options you can use to make sure those clothes that no longer suit your climate don’t go to waste. Donating your clothes is an excellent way to give back to your community. Not only does your donation help someone else in need, but it also helps keep clothing from going into landfills. Plus, donating unwanted items is free and easy – just check out local thrift stores or charities. Most places accept donations during normal business hours, and some even offer pickup services or drop-off boxes if you can’t make it during store hours.
If donating isn’t quite what you had in mind, then consider selling your clothes online or through a consignment store. Selling online is especially convenient since most platforms let you post photos of the items and list them for sale quickly and easily – all from the comfort of your home. And if there are consignment shops in your area, they may be willing to buy or accept items from you on a commission basis.
Clothes you won't be needing anymore can still serve their purpose
Ease the Transition by Hiring Cross-Country Movers
Professional movers can offer a range of long-distance moving services designed with moves between different climates in mind. They can help you pack and transport your items safely, making sure that everything is properly protected for the journey ahead. Reliable long-distance movers are experienced in dealing with any type of cross-country move and can make relocating in winter or rain seem like a breeze. You won’t have to deal with heavy lifting and other physically demanding work – and risk your health. Instead, two teams of relocation experts will do all the hard work for you and help you move safely and efficiently.
Still, it’s important to take the time to research the companies you’re considering and ensure they are reputable and reliable. You should always check online reviews from previous customers and look for any references or accreditations they might have from industry associations or other organizations. You also need to find out if they’re available, what their price is, as well as if they offer a packing service or any other additional cross-country moving services you may need.
Packing Service
Sit back and relax, we’ve got packing services covered. We use moving blankets, shrink wrap, bubble wrap and even custom wooden crating. Your stuff will be protected and carefully handled during the move.
Learn moreAuto Transport
Move your car across the country in an open or enclosed trailer – for an affordable fee. We offer car transport as a standalone service, but you can bundle it with your household move and get a hefty discount.
Learn moreStorage Services
Our spacious climate-controlled units will protect your things until the drop-off. No need to worry about them because all items are labeled and secure, and each customer gets a dedicated unit mixup isn’t possible.
Learn moreAfter Moving to a Different Climate, Your Utility and Maintenance Bills Will Be Different From What You’re Used To
When relocating to a place with completely different weather, there will be things to consider that you may not have thought of before. One of them is how your utility and maintenance bills will change when you move from one climate to another.
One of the biggest factors that affect your utility bill is the temperature outside. If you move to an area with hotter temperatures, you’ll be paying more for using air conditioning units. On the other hand, living in a cold climate may require more energy for heating. Also, if you’re organizing a move to an area with high winds, then it is likely that your electricity bill will be higher than it would be if you lived somewhere without strong winds.
Simultaneously, living in an area with heavy rainfall means that there will be a higher chance of water damage to your home or property due to flooding or other weather-related issues. This can lead to costly repairs and improvements to your home that can easily add up over time.
Your bills will increase or decrease, depending on your chosen location
You Need to Prepare Your Vehicle for Different Temperatures
If you plan to get auto transport services from a long-distance moving company or drive to your new location, it’s important to ensure that your vehicle is prepared for the change in weather. To avoid some severe vehicle-related relocation mistakes, you should:
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition. This includes checking the tires, visibility equipment, windshield wipers, and fluids and ensuring that you have the right type of oil for the temperatures you’ll be facing.
- Invest in winter tires if you will be driving in cold climates, such as the northern United States. This type of tire is designed to handle icy roads and snowfall more effectively than traditional ones.
- Create emergency kits for your vehicle that contain supplies useful for the predominant weather, such as blankets, a first aid kit, and extra food and water.
- Plan ahead when relocating to a new city and understand that some types of vehicles, such as motorcycles or RVs, may not be suitable to drive in extreme temperatures. Consider other options if you will be traveling to a region with severe cold or heat.
Additionally, keep in mind that you’ll need to put more effort into preparing for cold temperatures. If you need some hacks on how to winterize your vehicle appropriately, check the video below:
Prepare Yourself Physically and Mentally for the Change
Moving away and starting over in a different climate can be a big adjustment, both mentally and physically. Therefore, you must prepare yourself for any weather-related changes that may occur during and after the move and be flexible in your expectations of what the new weather will be like. This can help you better adapt to change and handle any unexpected challenges that may come up along the way. The better you paper yourself, the higher the chances of fast and complete adjustment to a new town.
