RSS

Congratulations! You’ve made the exciting decision to move to Las Vegas, one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation and a great place to live, work and play. As you prepare for relocation, the stress of planning and the daunting task of making the move might become overwhelming. This section of the Las Vegas Relocation Guide is designed to make your move a relatively effortless and enjoyable undertaking.

On the following pages you’ll find information about everything needed for relocation, from selecting a moving company and packing your belongings to transferring your medical records and hooking up utilities at your new home.

(Note: While this section is designed to help you develop a comprehensive, step-by-step process, to ensure a stress-free move you may find additional information related to settling into the community in the “Living in Las Vegas” and “Neighborhoods & Communities” sections of this guide.)

Moving
A number of options are available when it comes to planning the big move. You can do it yourself by renting a moving truck and packing and loading your own belongings, or you can hire a moving company to do the work for you. It’s important to consider how far you’re moving, how much you’re bringing with you and the time and costs associated with each option.

–Hiring a Moving Company
If you plan to interview moving companies, ask for references and have a similar list of information prepared:
   

1. Departure and destination cities.
2. Exact moving date (you’ll want to let the company know both when you need to have your current home packed and when you’ll need your belongings to arrive in Las Vegas). Make sure you’ll be present to meet the moving company at your new home to avoid incurring additional fees for storage.
3. Will you need temporary storage? If you’re moving into temporary housing when you first arrive, you may not have room for all of your possessions and may opt to place some things in storage. Some moving companies can arrange this for you. Others will require that you make arrangements on your own.
4. Are you planning to pack your own belongings? If so, you may inquire about the price and availability of packing materials.
5. If you’re planning to have the moving company pack for you, ask about insurance and take a careful room-by-room inventory of your possessions. You may consider taking date-stamped photographs of items that are of high monetary or sentimental value, such as antiques, easily breakable items and family heirlooms. If the moving company takes their own inventory, read through it carefully before signing off.
   
6. Every moving company has different pricing, policy and procedures. Make sure you get a written estimate before signing a contract.

–Binding and Non-Binding Estimates
A binding estimate details, in writing, any and all services the moving company is agreeing to provide for you. This type of estimate ensures you will only be billed for the pre-started amount. A non-binding estimate is simply an approximation of your total moving costs. Make sure you interview at least three companies and get everything in writing before you sign an agreement or make a deposit.

–Do-it-Yourself:
If you’re planning to move yourself, start by calling moving companies, getting price estimates and asking about the services the company offers. Make sure you know what you need before you start contacting movers. Make a list that includes information related to the following:
   

1. When do you need a moving vehicle?
2. How much do you have to move?
3. How long do you anticipate having the rental moving vehicle (factor in loading, travel and unloading time)?
4. What type of materials will you need? Many moving rental companies can provide you with moving boxes and packing materials as well as equipment for loading heavy items.
5. Will you need any special insurance?

–Packing Tips:
Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country, you’ll want to ensure all of your possessions make it to your new home in good shape. Consider these tips:
  

• Moving gives you a perfect opportunity to clean out your closets and garage and lighten your load. Consider holding a yard sale or donate unwanted items to charity. You may also discover that it makes more financial sense to sell or donate older, bulky items (such as appliances) and buy new ones upon your arrival in Las Vegas.
• Make sure you have all of the right packing materials on hand before you get started:
• A collection of sturdy boxes in different sizes and bubble wrap for delicate items.
• Moving blankets (to pad and protect items large items that can’t be boxed)
• Good old fashioned newspaper

Many moving and storage companies provide special boxes for packing china, glassware, lamps and clothing. Label each box clearly and note its contents.  Before you get too carried away with your packing, consider what things you’ll need easy access to both during your move and soon after your arrival. 

• Clothing and toiletries
• Medicines
• Important records and documents (such as your moving contract, important contact numbers, paperwork pertaining to your new home in Las Vegas). It’s also a good idea to keep sensitive and important documents in your possession: tax records, credit card and bank statements, medical and school records, etc. Also, personal electronic devices, such as cell phones and chargers, PDAs, and Blackberries should be kept with you at all times.

Remember that children, older travelers and pets will need extra attention and frequent stops along the way: 

• If you’re traveling with pets, bring along your leash, doggie bags and plenty of fresh water.  Stop in places where animals can safely stretch their legs and run off some energy.
• If you’re traveling with kids, invest in some travel-size car games, nutritious snacks and favorite toys. If you bring personal electronics, such as games, remember plenty of batteries!
• While it’s important for every traveler to stretch, walk around and get some fresh air every few hours, it’s vital that the elderly and those prone to blood clots (such as pregnant women) have the opportunity to move around and get their blood circulating.

–Moving Expenses
Portions of your move may be tax-deductible, especially if the move is related to a new job offer. While you should check with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or your own accountant to determine what can be deducted, keep careful track of expenses and save receipts for the following:

• The costs associated with renting a moving vehicle or hiring a moving company
• The cost of meals and lodging during the course of your move
• Gas and oil fees
• Temporary housing and/or storage
• Costs associated with selling an old home and buying a new one

Temporary Storage
You may want to store some or all of your belongings when you first arrive in Las Vegas. Consider these tips:

• If you’re only storing some of your possessions, make sure you differentiate between boxes that stay with you and boxes/items to be stored. Label storage boxes and, where possible, keep storage items together on the moving truck to ensure everything gets to the right place in an expedient manner. 
• Most storage facilities require that you provide your own lock, so invest in a sturdy device and make note of where you put the key.

In selecting a storage company, consider the following:   

• Proximity to your new home or neighborhood.
• Rental price and terms. Some storage companies enforce minimum time limits in the rental agreement while others give you month-to-month options.
• Amenities – storage companies vary greatly. Do you want climate control? Drive-up access? Internal lighting? Ask what each company offers and learn about policies for damage/theft liability and availability for the dates you need.

Temporary Housing
Many new residents need temporary housing upon arrival in Las Vegas. Maybe you haven’t decided what part of the valley you’d like to live in, or perhaps you’re waiting for a new home to be built. In any case, you have many options. 

–Using a Realtor
Even if you’re looking to rent, rather than buy, a qualified realtor may be able to help you find the perfect starter home. Additional information on qualified realtors and housing options can be found in the “Real Estate” and “Neighborhoods and Communities” sections of this guide.

–All-inclusive short-term housing
Many newcomers opt to use “all inclusive” short-term rental properties that provide everything from furniture to dishes and linens to utilities and phone service. While these properties typically charge a higher rate, they can often be more flexible than individual landlords. With this approach you’re free to place the majority of your belongings in storage and keep only personal possessions with you at your rental.

–Hotel/Motels:
If you need housing for a relatively short period of time, a stay in one of our local hotels or motels might fit the bill. Depending on your budget, you can check in to an extended-stay neighborhood property or take a mini-vacation and enjoy the star-studded amenities of any one of the city’s resort hotel/casinos. Some properties offer special weekly rates for guests who are in need of short-term housing. Ask about fees, availability for the dates you anticipate needing and short-term storage options.

Forwarding Mail
Just as you want your possessions to arrive safely in Las Vegas, you’ll want to make sure your mail follows you as well. 

Mail forwarding is a very important step in the moving process. To begin, go to your local post office for a “change of address” kit a few weeks prior to your move. In addition to forwarding mail, the kit will help you notify all interested parties of your new address, from credit card companies and magazines to family, friends and colleagues. 

Once you’ve forwarded your mail, keep close track of things such as credit billing statements and other personal information that could put you at-risk for identity theft. Pay attention to what arrives at your new address. If you’re missing a credit card statement, make contact with the issuing company right away. It’s also a good idea to monitor your credit report during your relocation to ensure no one has confiscated your personal data at any point during your move.

–P.O. Boxes
If you’re not quite sure what your immediate housing situation will be upon arrival in Las Vegas, consider renting a post office box. You can do this at a post office branch or at one of the many mail centers located throughout the valley. This approach ensures your mail will follow you to Las Vegas and not get lost in the shuffle as you make permanent housing arrangements. 

Transportation & Infrastructure
As one of the leading tourist destinations in the world with a record-breaking rate of population expansion, travel and transportation are of vital importance to the Las Vegas Valley. Studies are continually underway to determine the best course of action for infrastructure development to keep pace and support the varied needs of travelers throughout Southern Nevada. Listed below are some of the area’s major transportation providers.

–Airports
McCarran International Airport
Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport is currently home to 32 scheduled air carriers serving more than 95 non-stop destinations. The facility is recognized as the sixth busiest airport in the nation. McCarran’s passenger count for April 2006 was 14,755,745, up 4.9 percent from the same time period the year before. 

With an anticipated maximum capacity for 53 million passengers, McCarran is continually studying ways to improve airport facilities and handle a continued growth in passenger count. The Clark County Department of Aviation is preparing to develop a second international airport in Southern Nevada on approximately 6,000 acres of land south of Las Vegas in Ivanpah Valley. 

North Las Vegas Airport
The second busiest airport in the state, the North Las Vegas Airport primarily supports air traffic flight training, tour companies and private pilot activity. The facility logs more than 230,000 operations annually. The airport has a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower and is equipped with the latest technology. 

Henderson Executive Airport
Henderson Executive Airport is home to two flight schools and one tour operator. As the Henderson area continues to grow in both population and business base, the airport is handling an increased amount of private/corporate travel. Future plans call for construction of a first-class general aviation corporate terminal.

Boulder City Municipal Airport
Boulder City Municipal Airport has two full-size runways as well as one shorter runway to accommodate glider traffic. Two Grand Canyon tour operators are based here, as is a flight school. 

Jean Sport Aviation Center
Jean Airport is located approximately 20 miles south of Las Vegas on I-15. The facility has two runways and is used primarily for skydiving, glider and tourism-related activities. The airport boasts a 6,000-square-foot special events building. 

Laughlin-Bullhead International Airport
This airport serves commercial (Mesa Air), charter (Sun Country, Sun West International and Air Grand Canyon), general, military and corporate air traffic as well as the Sheble Flight School. The terminal houses a snack bar, a gift shop and three car rental agencies. 

–Bus Lines
ATC/Vancom of Nevada, Inc.
ATC/Vancom operates specially-equipped buses for people with physical or mental disabilities who cannot independently use regular bus service. This shared-ride, curb-to-curb bus service runs to and from any location in the Valley. Reservations are taken in advance.

–Regional Transportation Commission of Southern
Nevada (RTC):
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates the city’s bus line, Citizens Area Transit (CAT). It’s also working toward development of the Southern Nevada Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) system. A hybrid between bus and rail systems, MAX has many features of rail service with the cost and flexibility of a bus, making it an effective transportation solution. The MAX project is a National Demonstration Project by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). It uses the latest technology to provide a high-quality, state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly transit alternative at a fraction of the cost of rail service.

Citizens Area Transit (CAT)
(CAT) consists of 49 routes served by 305 buses, carrying close to 150,000 passengers every day in the greater Las Vegas Valley.

Greyhound Bus Services, Inc.
Located next to the Plaza Hotel in downtown Las Vegas, Greyhound offers service to 2,400 locations nationwide. Tickets can be purchased just prior to departure; however, discounts may be offered for some advance ticket purchases.

–Rail
Las Vegas Monorail
The $650 million Las Vegas Monorail is currently four miles long and travels along the east side of Las Vegas Boulevard. The rail is most commonly used by tourists and conventioneers. Monorail officials have agreed to extend the monorail to McCarran International Airport as well as to the resorts on the west side of Strip.

Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific Railroad provides Class I freight rail service with access to numerous industrial sites via I-15, which parallels much of the rail line. Intermodal service with daily switching frequency is offered, as well as standard boxcar and tank car service.

Safe Driving Tips
–Before you leave:
Whether you’re driving a moving truck across the country or simply following one in your personal vehicle, a major move can be both exhilarating and frustrating if you’re not prepared. A little careful planning can make your move an exciting adventure for the whole family.

• Make sure you know where you’re going! Remember to check out the best driving route to Las Vegas and keep maps and directions within easy access in your vehicle. (See “Maps” sidebar)
• Will you need lodging during your trip? Consider logical stopping points along the way and make reservations in advance. 
• Consider points of interest along the way. No matter what part of the country you’re coming from, chances are you’ll pass within close proximity of national parks, historic sites and interesting out-of-the-way attractions. Frequent breaks will keep everyone in the family from feeling tired and overwhelmed, so why not plan some brief site-seeing excursions along the way?
• From laptops and iPods to mini DVD players and hand-held video games, you can probably keep your family entertained during the drive. Make sure you have adequate battery power or car chargers in easy access.
• Be prepared for vehicle trouble and climate changes. Pack road flares, Fix-a-Flat and the number of your auto insurance and auto club.
  

–Once you arrive:
As one of the fastest growing cities in the country, Las Vegas has been building its infrastructure at a rapid rate. While you’re getting acclimated to our local highway and street systems, keep a map handy and listen to local traffic reports for road closures and slow-downs. 

Driving in a desert climate can take a little getting used to (see the “Living in Las Vegas” section of this guide for tips on desert living). Plan out your driving routes to work, school and other regularly-traveled destinations to ensure you get the best gas mileage and encounter the least amount of traffic. Side streets are often the best alternative when highway construction is underway, or when a heavy tourist weekend is upon us.  

Some basics of Nevada driving law to know:   

• Seat belts are required by law, as are age and weight-appropriate child restraint seats
• Open containers of alcoholic beverages are illegal, even if you’re a passenger 
• U-turns may be made at any intersection unless otherwise noted
• Right turns on red lights are legal unless otherwise noted 
• Speed limits in school zones range from 15 to 25 m.p.h. As many schools operate on a year-round schedule (including summer months), it’s important to note posted school zone signs.
• It is against the law to leave a child under the age of 12 unattended in a vehicle.

Nevada Driver's License
Once you arrive in Las Vegas, you have 30 days to obtain a Nevada driver’s license.

Nevada Vehicle Registration
Once you arrive in Las Vegas, you have 60 days to register your vehicle. The fine for failing to register is $250 - $500. With so many people relocating to Las Vegas, this is a law the state takes seriously. 

In order to register your vehicle, you must be able to show proof of liability insurance from a Nevada-licensed carrier. Out-of-state insurance is not accepted. According to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers who fail to obtain Nevada insurance may have registration suspended and be subject to a reinstatement fee.

–New Resident Vehicle Registration 
The Nevada DMV requires that you bring the following documentation with you for registration:    

• Most recent registration 
• State-issued driver’s license
• Social Security card
• Out-of-state license plates 
• Nevada emissions Vehicle Inspection Report (“smog check” – these quick procedures can be done at any number of service stations across the valley – most cost less than $20) 
• Nevada Vehicle Inspection Certificate ("VIN check" done at the DMV office)
• Certificate of Title (if ownership is changing - if not, the owner has the option of retaining the out-of-state title.) 
• Proof of liability insurance from a Nevada-licensed carrier
• Cash, check or money order to pay all applicable fees. You can estimate what your total will be by logging on to https://dmvapp.state.nv.us/estimate.asp.
  

–Resources:
Visit the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles at www.dmvnv.com to download the New Resident Guide. The site also provides information on vehicles leased to a business and watercraft registration. If you choose, you can register to vote at your local DMV office as well.

AAA Nevada has customized patrol vans on the streets and highways to provide free assistance to motorists 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
1-800-AAA-HELP.

–Traffic Reports:
Most major local radio and television stations provide regular, daily traffic reports during the morning and evening commute (see “Media” section). Typical updates include reported wrecks, road closures, lane restrictions, slow-downs and “areas to avoid.”

Utilities
–Getting Connected
Whether you’re moving into a brand new home or a short-term rental, chances are you’ll have to establish utility service. While it may seem like a hassle to turn on service for a short-term location, all services are easily transferred once you find permanent housing. 

Most local utility service providers allow online bill pay and specialized payment plans. Before you begin hook-up, make sure you have the following information on hand:

• Contact information from previous utility companies (including phone number, address, account number and where applicable, letter of deposit/credit)
• Details of your place of employment (address, phone, supervisor or human resources contact name) 
• Driver’s license and Social Security card
• Your new address and phone number
• Dates you need service to begin

–Electric
Nevada Power Co. was established in 1906, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sierra Pacific Resources and the main provider of power service in Southern Nevada. The company currently services more than 650,000 residential accounts and more than 85,000 business accounts.

The following services are offered to Nevada Power Co. customers free of charge:

• Online Pay & Electric Check (pay online or have payment deducted from your checking account
• Shop & Pay (bill pay at more than 130 store locations valley wide) 
• “Select Your Due Date” option (you get to choose the date your power payment is due)
• Equal Payment (you pay the same fee every month to avoid fluctuations and high bills in the summer months, when air conditioning is used more) 

WATER
The Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD) has been supplying Southern Nevada with water since 1954. The company currently serves more than one million customers.

A precious commodity in the desert, water conservation is encouraged for all residents of Southern Nevada. In recent years, various levels of drought restriction have been in place to ensure a stable future water supply. The LVVWD currently provides rebates to homeowners who convert turf to desert landscape or replace turf with artificial ground cover. The District issues regular watering schedules (see chart, page 270) for different areas of the valley. Non-complying residents are subject to fines. Certain types of private water features (including swimming pools and spas) are permitted.

Water restrictions to be aware of:
According to the LVVWD, during a “drought watch,” residential fountains and water features with a surface area of 200 square feet or less are allowed. During a “drought alert,” fountains and water features with a surface area of 25 square feet or less are allowed. Fountains are permitted to maintain a re-circulating water pool to sustain pumps, pond liners, surface coatings and ancillary equipment, though under drought conditions, the features may run only between the hours of 1:00 a.m. – 4:00 a.m., or whenever freezing conditions require system preservation.

Exemptions:

• Public and private swimming pools and recreational water parks
• Fountains and water features supplied by privately-owned water rights or by water rights obtained by means of a state-issued permit

The Water District is the operating agency for the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA), a regional organization that works to secure water resources for the Valley. SNWA also provides conservation programs for customers of member agencies. 

–Springs Preserve
The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre national historic site and eco-island along Valley View Blvd., south of U.S. 95 and west of downtown. Referred to as the “birthplace of Las Vegas,” the site was once home to bubbling springs that were a source of water for Native Americans living there thousands of years ago. Great for people of all ages to explore, Springs Preserve includes colorful desert botanical gardens, museum galleries, outdoor concerts and events, an indoor theater, a historic photo gallery and a series of walking trails that meander through a scenic wetland habitat.

–The Gardens at the Springs Preserve
The Gardens at the Springs Preserve is now open to the public and is intended to educate residents about water-efficient gardening and landscaping options. 

Gas 
Southwest Gas Corp. has been providing the Las Vegas Valley with safe and reliable natural gas service for more than 50 years. The corporation offers a number of special assistance programs, including:

• Energy assistance 
• Low-income weatherization 
• Deferred payment options
• Online energy conservation tips
• Online and store-based payment options

Telephone Service
Las Vegas residents have a number of options when it comes to telephone service. Many providers of multiple services will package or “bundle” several services into one lower package price. Ask about new subscriber specials.

Trash Removal
Republic Services provides refuse removal services valley-wide. Services include:

• Twice-weekly curbside trash pick-up
• Recycling programs
• Dumpster rental