So, you are packing things up, but it is just a “see you later” rather than a permanent goodbye.
A temporary or short-term move is its own unique form of relocation, and it is easy to get lost in the organizational puzzle.
To keep you on the right side of the process, learning how to prepare for a short-term move into temporary housing can make all the difference.
Why a Short-Term Move Requires Different Planning
A transitional move may occur if you are remodeling, building a new home, or awaiting a rental property.
This isn’t just a smaller version of relocating; it entails a distinct approach to its planning and execution.
The finite nature of the stay means you will want to be strategic with your temporary housing, what you are bringing, the possibility of storage, and how to make the new community feel like home.
Setting a Precise Timeline for Your Moving Process
Staying organized and setting a precise timeline are critical.
Even if you have an end date in sight, having something to follow is essential to smooth the transition.
- Initiate by identifying your move-out and move-in dates.
- Work backwards to schedule any key milestones.
- Write out the timeline for the entire project.
Prep for a Temporary Move: The Essentials
The prep doesn’t need to be stressful, but taking the first steps in budgeting to save money or sorting through your belongings is non-negotiable.
Take everything step by step:
- Decluttering will be your first step.
- Decide which items are essentials, and which can be donated.
- Take the process, room by room, to keep organized.
- Begin gathering moving boxes if you plan to DIY packing.
Learn more about Eden’s Moving Services and how we can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently with professional packing services!
Evaluating Your Space in the New City
When moving to a new place, you will want to secure a good overview and evaluation of the new city.
This is about more than just a new zip code; it is about reviewing the logistics and site before the truck pulls up.
Review the possibility for parking permits, loading docks, elevator access, and other building or HOA rules.
Learn about our local moving services for city-to-city transitions.
How to Find Temporary Housing Options That Fit Your Lifestyle
Locating temporary housing that fits your needs, whether you are in the midst of getting an education or relocating for a job, is essential.
Check the address and its proximity to your work, review safety criteria, what you will be paying for the rental, etc.
To find something that truly works, you will need balance.
Comparing Options for a Temporary Home
Before you commit to a location, get a sense of what the space can offer and compare it to what you expect or need.
- Temporary housing includes kitchen appliances to prep meals.
- You may want to have on-site or in-unit laundry facilities.
- Are there restaurants and coffee shops nearby?
- Can they provide the lease length you need?
The Benefits of Choosing Fully Furnished Rentals
When you choose a good place that already has furniture and the proper accommodations, you can create a convenient housing opportunity.
- Reduced relocation costs as you only need to bring your essential items.
- Additional flexibility without the hassle of buying provisional furniture or other items for the space.
- A total turnkey convenience that is already in place, so you can settle in and focus on taking care of yourself.
Our VIP moving services provide high-end temporary relocations throughout the Denver metro area and beyond.
Navigating Short-Term Housing Leases and Paperwork
Signing a short lease means additional layers of scrutiny, as sometimes things can change on short notice, and there is no extension clause.
Read everything thoroughly, verify utilities and internet options, and review any additional bills that may be incurred.
Some may opt for extended stay hotels or similar properties to avoid the need for a lease.
Organizing Important Documents for the Transition
Organizing all your personal and important documents requires you to make space and a solid strategy.
Create a Moving File to keep all contracts, receipts, and important documents in one place.
Set aside and file your birth certificates, medical records, lease agreements, and anything that you will immediately need.
Make sure these items always stay with you.
Setting Up Utilities and Services for the Interim
When moving into your new spot, you will need to set priorities for things like Wi-Fi, water, and utilities.
If these items are not bundled with your rental rates, you will want to set up or transfer temp accounts for all of your needs.
Coordinating all of these services a couple of weeks before the moving truck arrives will aid in ensuring everything is functional and that you can use all your electronics when you get there.
Packing Strategies for a Short Stay
Packing strategies during this kind of life change mean sticking to an essentials-only mindset.
To keep all things on track, separate your daily needs from items that may move into storage in the interim.
Using clear, accessible bins and professional packing supplies can greatly simplify this process.
Deciding What Stays and What Goes
Split your shipment and decide what will stay and go quickly.
Try the following strategy, for example:
ack only the clothing and gear you’ll need for the months you’ll be in your new city to save valuable closet space.
Instead of paying to transport heavy appliances to a fully furnished unit, secure them in a climate-controlled facility until your permanent home is ready.
Keep your documents in a dedicated folder and your daily medications with you at all times, rather than getting buried in a storage crate.
Managing Storage During Your Relocation
Storage is often a vital piece of the relocation checklist when heading to temporary housing.
This provides a safe middle ground for your belongings until you arrive at your final destination.
Explore our local storage services for items that won’t fit in your interim home.
Logistics for a Commercial Short-Term Move
Relocating to a new city for work or a special project can greatly shift your life.
Be prepared for the logistics that come with it:
Employers typically provide a relocation package to support temporary work relocations.
Many modern employers offer relocation support, coordinating directly with us to arrange packing and storage, so you can focus on your new role rather than the heavy lifting.
For work-related moves, keeping essential documents, such as corporate contracts and reimbursement receipts, accessible is vital to a smooth adjustment and accurate expense reporting.
Our commercial moving services are specifically designed to handle high-value office assets and modular workstations with zero margin for error.
Making Your Temporary Space Feel Like Home
No one wants to feel stuck in a waiting period, unable to fully transition to the new city, make new friends, and establish a legitimate community.
Adding your personal touch could make everything feel more like home, even if you are there for just a little while.
Top Tips for Your Temporary Move
To make things feel like home, use the following tips:
- Unpacking and organizing your clothes can make a transitional space feel more personal.
- Bringing personal mementos, such as photos, can add an individual touch to your home.
- Bring in scents you know with your favorite candle and a comfy throw blanket.
- Pick a low-maintenance houseplant to bring the place to life.
Check out our moving gallery for inspiration on organized setups.
Common Questions About Temporary Relocations
What is a temporary move?
The hardest month to rent an apartment in Denver is in June, but July can be just as difficult.
Everyone is trying to move in the summer, when the weather is nice, new grads are heading to new places, and families are relocating before the school year.
What qualifies as a temporary address?
A temporary address is any residential location where you are staying for a limited time, typically for less than a year.
Does renters' insurance cover a temporary relocation?
Standard renter’s insurance may cover loss of use for a temporary relocation, but only in cases of fire or water damage.
There are often policy limits, and it is best to review them with your insurance agent to see what will be covered and what won’t in the event of loss or damage.
Your Partner for an Effortless Transition
Managing a short-term relocation process doesn’t have to be a balancing act when you have professionals to lean on.
Rocky Movers specializes in complex relocation projects locally and long-distance, and we are here to bridge the gap between your old home and whatever the next chapter looks like.
Ready to Move? Get Your Free Quote
Allow our pros to do the heavy lifting, specific packing needs, and storage services.
Fill out our online estimate form to start creating your personalized quote today!