Whether it's on your own or for a specific job offer, you sometimes need to move for your career. The idea can be exciting , yet frightening and overwhelming at the same time.

What do you do first? How do you make sure you get everything done and ensure your move is as hassle-free as possible? Here are a few common items to place on your checklist before taking the plunge.

• Relocation benefits – Employers often work in close conjunction with moving companies that can help ease the load off the wallet. Benefits can range from moving expenses to assistance in selling off your home before relocating.

• Work out the essentials – Find the best route to work, transport for schools if you have kids, local emergency contacts, local estate agents to fill you in on the housing market and any personal needs you feel must be addressed in a new area, such as who your local football team might be .

• View the new place – If a plan begins to form, try using the internet to your advantage by searching for recent information on the area and what it’s like to live there given by locals. A new job could mean a higher salary but if living expenses turn out considerably higher, the benefit may be lost. Don’t expect to find love at first sight. Change can be a big step and it will take a while before you grow accustomed to your new surroundings. Visiting the area a few times before moving can help capture a feel of the area easing the transition.

• Know your estate agents – An experienced estate agent will lay all your options out on the table. The process of selling home can often be time consuming so it pays to get professionalism and a voice of experience in this area. Avoid being swayed by high selling figures and always compare the value of surrounding houses in the same area if an offer seems too good to be true. Estate agents can often assist you in finding a good fit for your mortgage requirements. Remember not to be hasty here; some deep research can really pay off in securing a great deal not only in terms of location but financially as well.

• Choose your movers – No matter how much distance you’ll be covering in the move it helps to choose an organisation accustomed to these trips. The more established they are, the more at ease you will feel while handing them some of your most prized valuables. You may face some additional costs depending on the length and proximity of the move, such as insurance, storage and freight handling costs so make sure you know all the associated costs before committing to the moving agency.

• Take your time – When all dates have been officially decided, give yourself some time off to make the necessary arrangements and to settle in to your new surroundings . You may also need to make temporary hotel bookings just in case your new found accommodation is still being finalised.

• Spread the word - Once you've settled on your new home and are ready to make the move, be sure to take care of all those transitional details. Have utility services such as gas, electricity, television and Internet connections turned off at your previous home and turned on in your new home on moving day. Make sure you have stocked up on all prescriptions, and get copies of any medical records you need to provide to your new doctors. Fill out change-of-address cards at your local post office, and notify credit card companies, banks and other important contacts of your new address. Finally, transfer funds and arrange check cashing in your new hometown.

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