Moving To New York - Tips For NYC Newcomers | Big Apple Movers NYC

Category: Moving to New York

Tips for NYC newcomers

How To Move Long Distance

Posted on by BigApple

When considering the logistics of a relocation, a long-distance move can be the most challenging and daunting. While the distance to be traveled may contribute to this apprehension, the planning process itself is often the most demanding aspect.

The extensive preparation required for such a move can be a significant drain on one’s energy and resources. Therefore, it is essential to approach the planning phase with a strategic mindset and a well-organized plan to ensure a smooth and successful transition. By doing so, one can alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with a long-distance move.

There are just so many parts and components that you need to think of that you might feel like going crazy from time to time. This is why experts always advise you to hire long distance movers NYC to help you with the whole process.

They can help with all those boring logistics and complex packing. Still, preparing well for your move is the key! That is why in this article, we take a better look at how you can prepare for a long-distance move.

Prepare For A Long Distance Move

Having enough time is crucial when planning a long-distance move. The more time you have, the more you can get done. If you finish something quickly, you can focus on doing it well. This will make your move more enjoyable and successful.

an hourglass

This is also why you should take at least 8 weeks for planning a move. In this time, you will need to put everything from thinking about what you will pack to dealing with your utilities. However, since you are moving a long distance, this time period will mean that you are rushing to do everything. This is a sad truth, but there are just way too many things to do during this time. This is why a lot of experts will recommend you take even more time – anything from 12 to 16 weeks would be ideal.

Of course, this depends on the distance you will travel. That’s why local moves stay on 8, while the international ones might take even more than four months! A thing to remember here is that professional NYC movers can help you a lot during this time. Delegating chores is the key, so while they pack you up, you can deal with the paperwork – or even spend time with your friends! Still, the point remains the same – take ample time to prepare for a long-distance move, and you will not regret your decision!

Understand The Specifics Of Your Move

Another thing you need to consider are the very specifics of your move. Long-distance move, as the name itself says, is not very specific. What even is a long-distance move? At what point should you use long distance residential movers NY?

This is why, when you want to prepare for a long-distance move, there are two types of moves you need to consider – intrastate and interstate. Intrastate means that you are moving within the same state – never crossing the borders. On the other hand, interstate means you need to cross the borders of one state and going into the other. Keep in mind that if you are crossing borders twice – out of your state and then back into it, you are still moving interstate!

a map

The rationale behind this partition is that interstate relocations typically necessitate the services of a specialized moving company. Such entities possess the requisite licenses to transport your belongings and can offer insurance policies to safeguard them.

However, to ensure a smooth transition, it is imperative to familiarize oneself with the intended route. This knowledge will enable you to determine the quantity of items you can transport and the associated costs. Consequently, prioritizing this aspect during preparations for a long-distance move is highly recommended.

Long Distance Move Budget

Of course, one of the things you cannot conduct a move without is the moving budget. This is an important thing to consider for a multitude of reasons. Basically, everything you will do during your move will depend on how much you can spend. The movers and the moving services you pick depend on this. The trucks you rent, how much you can take with you – all of this is connected to how much money you have.

So, before you even start to prepare for a long-distance move, sit down and figure out just how much money you have for the moving. A thing to consider is that long-distance moves usually cost more money. This is something you need to accept and deal with at the time you are planning your budget. This is because of the distance you and your movers will need to cover, but also because of the services you will need to successfully finish the move.

Consider  Transportation

Finally, once you know exactly where you are moving and how much you can spend on it, let’s look at the options you have to transport your stuff. Only when you have the budget will you know whether you can get a mover or if you should consider a DIY move. There is a third option too – getting shipping service. They can take your items and deposit them to your address. However, we repeat, for a long-distance move, going with a professional moving company is always the safest bet.

a professional mover ready to prepare for a long-distance move

Interstate movers might seem a tad more expensive, but they come with a variety of moving advice you can follow. They know how to deal with all the paperwork, and logistics come easy to them. Remember, they have done this countless times! This is why the smartest idea would be to contact them for your move. After that, you can start to prepare for a long-distance move together.

Moving to NY from Canada

Posted on by BigApple

If you are thinking about moving to NY from Canada, you should be well prepared. Even though most of the Canadians love their country, and are proud of it, they still like to look across the fence, at one of the most desired cities in the world.  If you are tired of Canada’s slow-paced living, and you want to speed up your life, New York City is the best place to do it.

Of course, it is not going to be easy, as getting a permanent visa is not an easy feat. And even if you meet all conditions for getting one, you will still need to move your life to a foreign country, find a place to live and find a job.

If you already have a job waiting for you, and you know where you will live, the only thing left is to hire international movers NY, pack your things and move.

Woman using computer and planning on moving to NY from Canada

Moving To NYC From Canada: Planning And Preparations

Moving to NYC from Canada is not something that you can do in short notice. And it usually requires years of exploring, planning and preparations. Of course, there are certain groups of people who can easily get a permanent visa.

But if you are not an American Indian, born in Canada, or you do not have any special skills that are in demand in the US, you will have to work hard to get one. And once you get a permanent visa, you will still have to through the process of moving, finding a job, finding a place to live, and getting accustomed to a very different way of life.

Visit New York Before Moving

Prior to contemplating a relocation from Canada to New York, it is imperative to thoroughly acquaint oneself with the city of New York. While you may already possess a considerable amount of knowledge about NYC through online resources and television, a genuine understanding of the city can only be attained through firsthand experience. Numerous individuals across the globe harbor fantasies of residing in this metropolis, particularly after being captivated by renowned television series such as “Sex and the City” or “Friends.”

And some of them think that living here is just visiting coffee shops and restaurants and hanging out with friends. So people decide to move without ever visiting New York. But then they find out that it is not like in TV shows and movies. And that this can be a really cruel and unforgiving place to live sometimes.  And it is certainly not for everyone.

Canadian passport

That is why it is of greatest importance to visit New York and to spend some time here as a visitor. And if you are a Canadian citizen, you can easily accomplish this.

You Will Need A Visa

If you are thinking about visiting the US, as a Canadian citizen you do not need a visa. And you can stay for up to six months. On the other hand, if you are planning to live in the US, you will need to acquire a permanent visa. Although there are many different ways to get a permanent US visa, this is not such an easy task.

So, before your fantasies about living in New York City start to affect your everyday life, learn about the ways to get a US visa. Maybe you will find that there is no way to get a visa the way you imagined. And that your only option is the green card lottery.

Unfortunately, every country has a certain number of available spots in this lottery. And Canada is a country that gets very few spots. So, moving to the US as a Canadian citizen is not that simple. But certainly not impossible.

Find a Place To Live

Individuals possessing specialized skills that are in high demand, those who have established a global reputation in their respective fields, or those who have secured employment opportunities in the United States are more likely to obtain a permanent US visa. Once this has been achieved, considerations regarding residential location may be made. It is worth noting that many individuals aspire to reside in Manhattan.

However, after they learn about Manhattan apartment rent prices, they are quickly back to reality. Naturally, some people can afford this. And if you are among them, you should feel lucky. Besides Manhattan, NYC has another four boroughs and they all have a life of their own.  So, use the internet to find useful moving tips and learn about every borough if you want to find a suitable place for you.

Street and Brooklyn Bridge

NYC Boroughs

  • Manhattan is the most desired destination in NYC. Almost everyone who is thinking about moving to NYC from Canada would like to live here.
  • Brooklyn is the place where you want to go if Manhattan is out of your price range. It offers much more affordable rents and easy access to Lower Manhattan, Midtown Manhattan, and Upper East Side.
  • Queens is another NYC borough with affordable rents, but not so close to Manhattan. If you need to commute to Manhattan daily, you better stay in Brooklyn.
  • The Bronx became famous for its bad reputation. And even though that reputation was well deserved. Today, it is nothing like you could see in the ’80s and ’90s movies. (Our Bronx Movers are available in this area)
  • Staten Island has a good connection with Brooklyn, but if your goal is to work in Manhattan, it is not the best option.

Every of these five NYC boroughs has different neighborhoods, and they all have different vibes and way of living. Therefore, finding a home in New York will require lots of researching.

Don’t Forget Packing and Moving

As you can see, moving to NY from Canada is not that easy as you imagined. You will have to learn a lot about New York City, and its different boroughs. You will have to find a job, and visas are a big issue, also.

But even if you manage to overcome all those obstacles, there is still a complicated matter of moving. You will need to pack and transport your belongings all the way to another country. And that can be done easily only if you find a good moving company and storage NYC to help you.

Moving From Toronto To New York

If you live in Toronto and want to move to New York City, here’s a Toronto-specific guide to help you make the move to the Big Apple:

Visa and Immigration: If you are a Canadian citizen, you might qualify for specific U.S. visas like the TN visa (for professionals under NAFTA), E-1 or E-2 investor visas, or the L-1 intra-company transfer visa. It is important to research and select the right visa category for your situation and begin the application process early to ensure a seamless transition.

Finding Housing: New York City has many different neighborhoods, each with its own special feel and vibe. When looking for a place to live, consider things like how close it is to your job, what public transportation is available, and how much you can afford. Some popular neighborhoods for people from Toronto are the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Astoria in Queens. These areas are known for their diverse communities and the things they offer.

Cost of Living: New York City is known for being very expensive, which might be a big difference for people moving from Toronto. You should expect to spend more money on things like rent, food, and eating out. Make a plan for your money that takes these changes into account so you can keep living the way you want to.

Transportation: New York City has an extensive public transportation system, similar to Toronto’s TTC. However, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the MTA subway and bus system, as well as the MetroCard payment system. Depending on your location and job, you may or may not need a car in the city.

Healthcare: Healthcare in the U.S. differs from Canada’s universal healthcare system. Ensure you have appropriate health insurance coverage before your move, and understand how your coverage works in the U.S. Many employers offer health insurance benefits, so explore your options and choose a plan that suits your needs.

Taxes: Understand the tax implications of moving to the U.S. You may need to file taxes both in Canada and the U.S. during the transition year. Consulting with a tax professional experienced in cross-border taxation is advisable to ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Legal and Administrative Tasks: Don’t forget to update your address with Canadian government agencies, banks, and other institutions. Notify them about your move to New York and ensure your identification documents are up-to-date.

Moving From San Francisco To New York

Posted on by BigApple

Relocating from one of the most expensive cities to one of the most remarkable cities in the country requires a high level of moving expertise in order to achieve a successful transition. It is crucial to meticulously prepare for the move from San Francisco to New York, as both cities are densely populated and bustling hubs of activity.

To ensure a smooth relocation, it is imperative to invest all available resources into organizing the move effectively. We understand the complexities involved in such moves, but we also recognize that they can be simplified. Therefore, today, we will disclose some valuable insights on how to effortlessly move from San Francisco to New York.

Manhattan by night

When To Move From San Francisco To New York

San Francisco and New York are arguably two of the most remarkable destinations in the United States. While we acknowledge the splendor of other bustling metropolises across the nation, there is an intangible quality to the atmosphere of these two cities that renders them unique in their own right.

Swapping one for another is going surely going to be a shock. Therefore, you need to make sure that you are all set for moving to New York before you actually embark on this journey of yours. 

How do you prepare? Well, except gathering information on the city that you are moving to, you need to make sure that you plan your move in the right way. Therefore, let’s take a look at what you need to pay attention to when moving from San Francisco to New York:

  • Come up with a moving plan as soon as possible
  • Choose a reliable moving company to help you with your move
  • Make sure to deal with paperwork on time
  • Throw a good-bye party before you are due to leave

Ultimately, even though NYC is different, it is still an amazing place to live in. Therefore, do not despair for leaving the Bay Area. You can always come back and visit. Now, let’s get you all set up for your move.

Make Moving Plan As Soon As Possible

The first thing that you need to take care of as soon as possible is coming up with a moving plan. 

Many individuals tend to underestimate the significance of the moving process, perceiving it as a task that can be approached with a leisurely attitude. However, this perception is far from accurate. Moving entails a series of intricate procedures that demand a substantial amount of time to be executed effectively.

As a general guideline, it is advisable to allocate approximately six months to adequately organize and prepare for the relocation from one’s current residence. It is important to acknowledge that although move-related matters may not require daily attention, unforeseen circumstances beyond one’s control can arise, necessitating proactive measures.

Therefore, come up with a moving plan as soon as you can. Then, start getting in touch with moving companies in New York.

Choose A Reliable Moving Company

Moving companies are plentiful. This means that you are going to need to do some digging to find the one for you.

The best way to go about this business would be to talk to them. Talk to as many of them as you can. Ask them for their free moving estimates San Francisco. Once you receive them, compare quotes. See which mover offers the most affordable service. Ultimately, make your choice. However, bear in mind that the price is not always a sign of affordability. Take into account the services offered. Only then will you be ready to make the best decision.

California St. San Francisco

Deal With Paperwork On Time

When planning a relocation from San Francisco to New York, it is crucial to consider the necessary paperwork. This aspect of the process often demands a significant amount of time to complete. Consequently, it is advisable to initiate the necessary arrangements well in advance of the actual move.

You should make sure to visit your utility companies, doctor’s offices and kids’ schools at least a month before the moving date. Let them know when you are going to leave San Francisco. Ask them to prepare all of the documentation by then.

Throw A Goodbye Party To Celebrate Your Moving

Every story needs closure. When you are moving away, throwing a good-bye party is the way to go out in style.

Celebrate moving from San Francisco to New York by throwing a party

A good-bye party should represent a celebration of everything good that happened to you in San Francisco. Therefore, make sure to invite all of your close and good friends to it. Spend a day or a night together. Make barbeque or simply hang around. Soak in that atmosphere. It may be a while until you feel like that again. Only then will you be ready for your residential move to NY.

Conclusion

Preparing for moving from San Francisco to New York is pretty easy when you know what you need to pay attention to. Still, what can be hard is settling in in the new city. How many people in New York do you know? Is there someone who could meet with you after moving? Someone that could get you to know the people and have fun with? If so, you are going to have a very good time. Otherwise, just let go. After all, this is New York that you are moving to. 

How To Move To New York From Europe

Posted on by BigApple

Embarking on the endeavor of relocating from Europe to the vibrant city of New York is a cherished aspiration for numerous individuals, and understandably so. The dynamic streets, renowned landmarks, and multicultural ambiance render it an alluring destination.

As a reputable moving company based in New York, we possess a profound comprehension of the enthusiasm and obstacles associated with international relocation. In this extensive manual, our objective is to furnish you with indispensable knowledge and perspectives to facilitate a seamless transition to the illustrious Big Apple. From the intricacies of the move itself to acclimating to the urban landscape, we are fully equipped to assist you every step of the way.

How Can a European Move to New York?

map of europe

Moving from Europe to New York City involves several crucial steps. To begin with, let’s discuss the importance of the right visa. Obtaining the appropriate visa is often the first and foremost step when planning your move. Whether you’re considering a tourist visa, work visa, or even a green card for permanent residency, researching and applying for the correct visa well in advance is essential.

When it comes to planning the move itself, you’ll need to decide whether you’ll ship your belongings overseas or buy new items once you arrive. This is where moving companies like ours come into play. We specialize in handling the logistics, customs clearance, and transportation of your belongings, making your international move considerably more manageable.

Locating appropriate housing in New York City can present a formidable challenge owing to the substantial demand and associated costs. In order to arrive at a well-informed decision, it is imperative to conduct thorough research on neighborhoods, property options, and rental rates. In this regard, the assistance of local experts can prove to be invaluable, as relocation companies frequently possess valuable insights into the most suitable neighborhoods for individuals new to the city.

Additionally, opening a local bank account and understanding the U.S. banking system is vital for financial stability. Ensuring you have sufficient funds for initial expenses and a financial cushion to navigate the city’s high cost of living is a prudent move.

The provision of healthcare is a crucial aspect to be taken into account. The healthcare system in the United States varies considerably from that of Europe, hence obtaining health insurance coverage should be given utmost importance. It is advisable to conduct thorough research on healthcare providers and opt for a plan that is in line with one’s requirements.

Is New York Foreigner Friendly?

New York City’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures makes it generally welcoming to newcomers. However, adjusting to life in this vibrant metropolis can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider:

Embracing the multicultural atmosphere of the city and establishing connections with local communities from one’s home country can provide valuable support and foster a sense of belonging. The city’s diversity is a significant asset and a source of strength.

While English is the primary language, you’ll find a multitude of languages spoken in various neighborhoods. Learning some basic English phrases can be immensely helpful in your day-to-day interactions.

Navigating the city’s public transportation system, including the subway and buses, is a valuable skill. New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyle, so be prepared for the bustling city environment.

How Much Money Do You Need to Move to New York?

woman counting money

New York City’s reputation for a high cost of living is well-founded, and it’s essential to budget accordingly. Housing expenses, in particular, can be a significant portion of your budget. Be prepared to pay a substantial upfront cost, including security deposits and the first month’s rent.

Utilities and groceries also factor into your budget. Research local costs and consider shopping at neighborhood markets and cooking at home to save on food expenses.

Transportation costs can add up, so calculate expenses for public transportation or consider owning a bike to save money on commuting.

Entertainment and dining are part of what makes NYC special, but these activities can be expensive. Establish a reasonable entertainment budget to enjoy the city without overspending.

Is New York Easy to Get a Job?

hiring sign

Securing employment in New York City can be competitive, but it’s possible with the right approach:

Establishing a robust network is of paramount importance. It is advisable to capitalize on your professional connections, participate in industry gatherings, and make use of digital platforms such as LinkedIn to establish links with prospective employers.

When searching for job opportunities, explore listings on various websites, including industry-specific job boards. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to stand out.

To adequately prepare for interviews, it is recommended that one conducts thorough research on the company, gains a comprehensive understanding of the role, and practices answering common interview questions. Additionally, our esteemed moving company can provide assistance in transporting your professional attire, thereby enabling you to make a favorable impression during interviews.

Can I Move to America Without a Job?

While having a job offer can simplify the immigration process, it is possible to move to the United States without employment secured:

Consider pursuing higher education in the U.S. by applying for a student visa (F-1). This allows you to study and potentially work part-time on campus.

If you have a substantial amount of capital to invest in a U.S. business, explore options such as the E-2 investor visa.

Family-based immigration is another avenue. If you have close relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, they may sponsor you for a family-based immigrant visa.

How Moving Companies Can Assist

Moving to a new country is a complex process, and professional moving companies like ours can make a world of difference. Here’s how we can assist:

Logistics and Transportation: We specialize in handling the logistics of your move. This includes packing, shipping, and customs clearance, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time.

Local Knowledge: Our extensive local knowledge can help you find suitable housing and navigate the intricacies of New York City, from neighborhood recommendations to understanding local regulations.

Storage Solutions: If you need temporary storage for your belongings before or after your move, we can provide secure storage options.

Customized Services: Every move is unique, and we tailor our services to your specific needs, ensuring a seamless transition to your new life in New York.

Conclusion

Moving from Europe to New York City is a big change that needs careful planning. We are a moving company based in New York and we can help you with everything, from getting the right visa to finding a place to live, managing your money, and finding a job. Enjoy the city’s diverse culture, be smart with your money because it’s expensive to live here, and work hard to achieve your career goals. Adjusting to life in the city may be tough, but it’s also full of opportunities and excitement.

When is the Cheapest Time to Relocate

Posted on by BigApple

So, you’ve decided to make a big change in your life and try your luck in another city? That is admirable since this step isn’t such an easy to take for many.  The time will show is it a good decision, but the key is to keep a positive attitude. Something that is hard to do, when you’re facing all those hard moving tasks and expensive costs.

However, you can spear your finances if you just pick the cheapest time to relocate. Choosing the moving day wisely will give you the opportunity to get the help of professionals, even if you’re moving on the tight budget. Booking your relocation in just the right moment can save you a lot of money and stress.

Start Planning on Time

Keeping a schedule and organizing every detail is the key to a successful relocation. Especially if you’re making some major change, like moving from NYC to California. Moving across the country will be challenging. Sooner you start planning it, sooner you will get on top of all the things that you need to do.

When operating within a stringent moving budget, strategic timing is of utmost importance. Adjusting your schedule and selecting a moving date during the most cost-effective period is a prudent decision. Factors such as the season, date, day of the week, and time of day must be taken into account. Optimal timing for your move will yield significant financial benefits.

No matter are you moving residentially or you’re planning commercial relocation. Learning when is the cheapest time to relocate and fixing your moving date on that information is an excellent time and money saving tactic.

Watches - Don't waste time and choose the cheapest time for relocation

When is the Most Expensive Time to Move?

There are many factors that determine when people are moving. However, the statistic shows that the biggest number of relocations take place during the spring and summer.

Why is that?

  • Weather is convenient – Warm and dry weather is beneficial for relocation. Your belongings won’t need waterproof protection which makes packing simpler. This is also the time when most people decide to move on their own. However, they often don’t succeed in that intention, so in the end, they hire movers. Which is an additional reason why spring and summer are the peaks of the moving season.
  • School is out – People that have kids, have to think about there needs first. Since relocation is very hard on children, the additional stress of transferring schools in the middle of the year will traumatize them even further. For parents, the most logical time for moving with children will be during the spring or summer school break.
  • The traffic is lighter – Summer is the time when the population in cities decrease by half. Or at least seems that way. Since most people are taking time from work to go on holiday, the cities seem empty. That is the perfect time to hit the road with the moving vehicle because there’s less traffic on the city’s streets.
  • Vacation season – Moving all across the country usually takes more time than just one weekend. Since many don’t want to take the days off from work to move from one state to another, they use their summer vacation days for relocation.

So, when is the cheapest time to relocate during the year?

Once you determine that spring and summer are the busiest months, you should pick months between September to March for your relocation. While the weather is changeable then, this is certainly the cheapest time to relocate.

This is the off-season for moving companies. Meaning that movers have very little business which causes them to offer very attractive discounts and lower rates.

Combination of very affordable rates and various discounts can cut your moving costs for half. That means that you will be able to afford to hire one of the best moving companies in the business even when you’re moving on the tight budget.

Moving on the winter does have a lot of dangers, but nothing that reputable and great professional movers can handle. The additional moving services are also cheap at this time of year, so you can have a completely stress-free moving experience and still save some bucks!

Truck on the snowy road

Time of the Month is Also a Cost-Effective Feature

Once you know what season to pick, you know when is the cheapest time to plan your move. However, it may happen that you don’t have the luxury to pick the season for your relocation.
In case that you have to move on the certain month, you still can make your costs more affordable.

Simply by choosing to move to the middle of the month. The statistic shows that a number of moves are significantly lower between the 11. and 20. day of the months. Meaning that the cheapest time to relocate will be between these dates.

The weekend certainly isn’t the  cheapest time for relocation

Speaking of the days in the months, you should notice that choosing the right day of the week can have a big impact on your moving budget.

The majority of individuals opt to relocate during the weekend, specifically on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, which are the peak days for moving companies. This preference is understandable as it allows individuals to avoid taking time off from work. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that Friday, in particular, is not only the most costly day to move but also the most hazardous day to travel on the road.

Still, if you have some personals days, use them for your relocation. Setting the moving day for Tuesday or Wednesday is one of the best tips for saving some money in NYC.

What About the Time of the Day?

You probably were stuck in traffic for a long period of time at least once in your life. Maybe you experience that every day to the commute to work. Either way, you know how stressful it can be. Now imagine that you’re in that situation, but driving the moving vehicle. Which can happen easily if you try to move on your own and don’t have a clue about the perfect time of the day for your relocation.

When you’re moving locally in New York, the chances are that you won’t be moving for hours during the rush hours.

Traffic jam - the cheapest time to relocate is after the rush hours

All that will increase the consumptions of fuel, which will increase your moving costs. Even if you hire the movers, they will have higher rates for moving in rush hours.

Avoiding traffic jams and the busiest time of the day will be very beneficial to your budget. Moving really early in the morning or late in the evening will be the wisest choice. Not only that will save you some money, but also your sanity.

How to store your books in NYC home

Posted on by BigApple

Moving to New York is a big change in your life and it forces you to adapt to a new lifestyle. Along with getting used to a new location, a new pace of life and a new subway system, you need to fit your belongings into a new space. We are all familiar with the fact that many places in New York are smaller than one might like. Some people have an issue fitting all of their belongings into their New York home. If you’re looking for moving estimates NYC before the move, you can search online and get the information you need. And if you’re worried about storage, here’s how to store your books in NYC home. Continue reading “How to store your books in NYC home”

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