4 Tips for Moving with Extended Family

Extended family members are increasingly common in American households today. Sometimes, this is because of cultural reasons, and in other cases, it may be financially beneficial for everyone. Regardless of the situation, having extended family members in the house can make moving a little trickier. So, before you start packing boxes and calling movers, remember these tips.

Step One: Communicate With Everyone

An extended family typically means a mixture of people of different ages, backgrounds, and needs. For example, one house could have grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

So, it’s imperative to have everyone on the same page when planning and preparing for a move. It’s also critical to discuss why the move is happening. For example, if you’re upgrading to a larger house with more room for everyone, you can discuss specific living arrangements.

It may also be necessary to determine whether the new house is convenient for everyone, regarding amenities like schools, healthcare, stores, traffic, etc.

Overall, it’s best to have these discussions with everyone involved as soon as possible. Even children should be aware of what’s happening and voice their opinions. This way, they’ll be more excited about the move and the changes it can bring.

Step Two: Try to Accommodate Everyone’s Needs

Living in a household with extended family often means overlapping schedules, mobility concerns, and potentially language barriers. Moving can disrupt daily life, from cooking meals to getting ready for work or school.

So, it’s best to devise a plan to accommodate everyone as much as possible before, during, and after the move. Consider who performs specific tasks within the house and plan accordingly if necessary. For example, if a grandparent makes breakfast for the kids in the morning, you may want to wait to pack their cooking utensils until the day of the move. Similarly, kids should have their school supplies handy to be ready to go once they’ve transitioned to the new home.

Overall, focus on the more minor details of everyday life. This way, you can determine which items can be packed first (i.e., those that aren’t used very often) and which must be accessible throughout the moving process.

Step Three: Focus on Comfort, Not Speed

When multiple generations live in the same household, everyone moves at a different pace. While most people try to move as quickly as possible, it may be better to take your time and move in sections. For example, if there are multiple immediate families (i.e., two sets of parents and children), one family may move first, then the other.

If you have elderly grandparents or relatives living with you, focus on how comfortable they’ll be during and after the move. For example, they need a place to sit in the new home if they can’t stand for too long. Also, you can have them help by unpacking boxes or sorting items by room—jobs that can be done while sitting. This way, they feel like they’re part of the transition.

Step Four: Utilize Help Whenever Possible

Although you have extended family living with you, not everyone can pitch in on moving day. Sometimes, the best option is to hire professional movers who can pack, transport, and unpack your belongings for you. The cost can often be worthwhile because it streamlines the moving process and reduces stress for everyone involved.

Let Us Help You and Your Family Move!

Moving with an extended family doesn’t have to be challenging. With our comprehensive moving services, we can help you relax and enjoy your new home in no time. We can make the transition from packing services to speedy moving assistance easy. Contact us today to find out more.