An informational source for people who are relocating, with a particular focus on moving to the Carlsbad area of North County San Diego (and nearby coastal communities), with advice, guidance and true stories to help you on your way and make it a great journey, from a REALTOR� with plenty of personal (4 major moves, most recently from Boston to Carlsbad, California) and professional relocation experience. Are you running into problems selling your home? Need to find a new one quickly? Never moved before and haven't a clue? You'll find some great tips on how to solve your relocation issues here. Or ask me a question any time and I'll share some solutions or tell you where to get more information.
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Most folks have at least one car, and when you are relocating you will need to deal with moving your vehicle as well as all the household stuff.
So what are your choices?
First, and perhaps most obvious, you can drive your car to your new destination, depending on you willingness to do so (you might not want to drive all the way across the country, but on the other hand it can be a fun way to see the US). Make an adventure out of it if you have time (remember the moving truck will take a while to get there too), plan some touristy things to do along the way, and take plenty of photos to commemorate the trip. Do keep in mind the potential for weather issues - driving across the northern plains in January may NOT be prudent.
The second choice is to ship the car. There are several options here.
The moving company can load the car on a trailer and tow it behind the truck. We did this on our trip from Boston to Carlsbad.
The moving company may load the car right into the moving van itself if it is a big truck. This was how we moved one vehicle from Minneapolis to Boston.
You can arrange your own shipping through a car transportation company or move it by train.
If you are moving overseas the vehicle will likely go by ship with the household goods containers. It could be more cost effective to sell your car stateside and simply buy a new one in your new home
It may be less expensive to have the moving company move the car as part of the overall package, but look into the alternatives. What you do may also depend on your time availability. You may prefer to ship the car and fly rather than drive. Perhaps it is not worth moving the vehicle - sell it an buy a new one
Check also your relocation package if you have one since there may be restrictions or limits on what you can and cannot do.
Whatever you decide, I would strongly suggest you check into the Department of Motor Vehicles and insurance requirements in your new state beforehand so you are prepared. There may be more restrictive emissions requirements. And find out what you need to do about registering you r car in your new home - how much time you have, costs, etc.
You will also want to talk with your insurance company when moving your car to make sure you are covered with regard to damage. The moving company may provide some coverage if the car is towed or shipped in the van.
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If I can provide more information about the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360
or email me at JDowler@remax.net.