At United Van Lines, we’re always telling our customers to plan their moves ahead as much as they can. But sometimes circumstances can put people into a reactive mode — and they’re compelled to get through a life-altering event such as a move as best they can.   For this article we’re not talking about getting out of the direct path of a hurricane, forest fire or other life-threatening emergency (or as we refer to them in the moving business, “Acts of God”). Instead, these are moves made by people who are experiencing personal or work-related hurdles or the aftermath of a natural dis ..read more

You’ve heard jokes about Chicago politics and the windy winters, but what’s it like living in the Prairie State? Sure, the weather can get crazy, with hot muggy summers and frigid snowy winters, but Illinois offers a lot more than meteorological mayhem. From world-class cities like Chicago to scenic rural towns, Illinois has something for everyone.   Read on to get the lowdown on jobs, cost of living, outdoor adventures and all the other factors you should consider before packing your bags for the Land of Lincoln.   The Pros of Living in Illinois  Illinois has a lot go ..read more

You’re finally ready to buy a house, but don’t get too excited just yet. While house hunting can be fun and exciting, it’s important not to let that cloud your judgment. Before you make an offer on that cute bungalow or sprawling ranch, keep an eye out for any red flags that could turn your dream home into a money pit down the road.   Learn what to watch for when checking out prospective houses so you can avoid any costly surprises after move-in day(*).   Major Red Flags That Could Mean Big Repairs  When house hunting, keep an eye out for these major red flags that cou ..read more

If yours was a late autumn or winter move, a lot of routine maintenance may have fallen by the wayside as move-related tasks piled up and the weather got colder. But now spring is fast approaching and it’s time to finally get your new home ready for spring and summer fun.  A thorough spring cleaning not only helps declutter your home, but it will also improve your mood and overall wellbeing. And in terms of curb appeal, tidying up outdoor areas also helps your property look its best for the peak season of summer entertaining.   In this article, we’ll provide a handy checklist of ..read more

Highlights of Philadelphia  A global city with a down-home feel, Philadelphia is one of America’s congenial cosmopolitan areas. The City of Brotherly Love goes by many nicknames. Its diverse and welcoming culture gave it sobriquets like the City of Neighborhoods and the City that Loves You Back. Its integral part in the American Revolution earned it the moniker the Birthplace of America and the Cradle of Liberty. And the large population of the Religious Society of Friends, who fled persecution in England in the 17th century, gave Philly its appellation the Quaker City.   The ci ..read more

Discover the Valley of the Sun Situated on the picturesque Salt River in the shadows of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, the Valley of the Sun has a deep history and a bright future — if the throngs of newcomers have anything to say about it.   Nearly a quarter of a million people have moved to Phoenix since 2010 — 56,831 residents in 2022 alone — giving surrounding Maricopa County the largest population gains in the country that year. Some of the capital city’s new arrivals have come for the warm desert air. Others, for jobs in the booming economy. But many of Phoenix’s recent ..read more

If you’ve always dreamed of moving to Florida, you’re not alone. The beaches, the weather, the lifestyle — it seems like a vacation from the grind of daily life. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand what life is really like in the Sunshine State.   Florida has a lot going for it, but there are also some realities you’ll need to be prepared for. So, let’s take an unfiltered look at the pros and cons of living in Florida, from the cost of living and job market to the climate and overall vibe.   The Sunny Upsides of Living in Florida Sunshine — and plenty of ..read more

City Highlights A capital city with a deep history, the story of America could not have been written without the city Atlanta. As a battleground in both the Civil War and the civil rights movement, Atlanta’s undulating hills and valleys have borne witness to some of the most consequential cultural shifts in human history. But those events are only part of what has made it the cultural epicenter it is today.   With more than 5.1 million residents, the Atlanta metro area population is now the eighth-largest in the nation. But the city of Atlanta itself has a comparatively small populat ..read more

Endless sunshine, golden beaches, celebrity sightings and traffic — lots and lots of traffic. The Golden State certainly has its fair share of ups and downs, but that’s what makes life here so interesting.   From the redwood forests up north to the desert landscapes down south, California’s natural beauty is unparalleled. Sure, the cost of living is high and taxes make you cringe, but there’s just something about those Pacific sunsets that soothes the soul.  Whether you’re thinking of moving to California or just want to experience the state vicariously, here’s the inside scoop ..read more

If you’re moving during the winter, you likely need a break from the bitter cold and gray.   Make the most of your winter move — and take a breather en route — with a stop at one of America’s stunning national parks. Truly, winter is a great time to visit many of these awe-inspiring public lands. After all, summer crowds have dwindled and the parks take on a magical quality with snowcapped vistas and frozen waterfalls.   Just be sure to bundle up, grab some hot coffee or cocoa, and be prepared to see some of the country’s most gorgeous natural scenery. From the snowy slopes ..read more