Richmond, Virginia, USA downtown skyline on the James River.
Now that you’ve decided to make Richmond your new home, you’ll have to plan your move to the city. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Plan ahead
- Find a reliable moving company
- Talk to your Realtor
- Transfer your utilities and billing
- Do research on vehicle transfer and driving requirements
- Have an emergency bag
- Familiarize yourself with the city
As with any major transition, you have to plan your move to Richmond carefully – more so if you’re coming from another state. Decide which day you’ll be moving, and prepare for relocation in the weeks leading up to it. Pack your things and get rid of items that you no longer need. Tie up loose ends and get ready to say goodbye to your old home.
For those of us who work long hours, it’s not always possible to plan months or weeks before moving. If you know you’ll be busy, get help – ask friends and family for assistance, or hire a professional to pack your things in time for the move.
There are many established moving companies that serve Richmond. A quick online search will turn up names of relocation specialists currently based in the area. Read web reviews to see what people are saying about them. You can also ask your friends and colleagues for referrals.
If you’re having a difficult time finding a moving company, your Realtor might be able to connect you with someone they know. Agents often do more than help you find a new home – they can also help make the transition easier. So ask them for referrals, if they haven’t already suggested a relocation specialist.
Make sure that your new residence is livable – have your utilities transferred in time for the move. This way, you can enjoy wifi and cable after a long day of driving and unpacking. This also makes your new home feel so warm and welcoming that you won’t pine for the familiarity of your old one.
Don’t forget to file a “change of address” so that all your mail will be forwarded to your new residence.
Keep in mind that upon moving to Richmond, you must obtain a Virginia driver’s license within 60 days, and that you must register your vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 30.
Your car must pass a yearly safety inspection before you can drive it around town. You’ll also need an up-to-date safety inspection sticker – otherwise, you can get ticketed by a law enforcer.
Check the Virginia DMV website for more information.
An emergency bag, or a trip kit, must contain valuable items, as well as anything that you need to access to during the move. This may contain wallets, jewelry, important documents, gadgets, and keys. It may also contain your kids’ favorite toys, a change of clothes or diapers, and a first aid kit.
Likewise, have a separate box that contains all the items that you will need immediately upon arrival. This includes box cutters, phone chargers, and extensions. The box should ideally be clear, making these items easier to find.
Know the driving route to your new address. The Virginia Department of Transportation provides traffic information on the state. Click here for updates. Keep an eye on the weather too – the state enjoys four seasons throughout the year. Stay informed on weather updates to better prepare for the move.
It’s hard not to love Richmond. If you want to live in this wonderful city, call Shaheen, Ruth, Martin & Fonville Real Estate (SRMFRE) at 804.288.2100.
