Moving Tips

Congratulations, you’re moving!  Moving can be both exciting and overwhelming.  Sometimes it’s hard to know what to tackle first. Here’s a timeline of some of the things to do before Moving Day.   

6-8 weeks before the move:

• Compile estimates from at least two Moving company’s or Truck Rental company’s.

• Compile estimates from Storage Facilities.

• Create a “move file” to keep track of estimates, receipts and other important information.

• Start compiling medical and dental records.  Ask your doctors if they can refer you to a care provider in your new city.

• Arrange to have school records transferred to your children’s new school district and/or daycare.

• Get copies of any legal and financial records you need.

• Call your insurance agent to see what changes to expect in your policies for changing states.  Ask if moving is covered and arrange for insurance for your new home.

• Begin collecting boxes and other packing supplies.

4-5 weeks before the move:

• Begin collecting boxes and other packing supplies.

• Begin packing items you don’t use often. Also start separating and disposing of the items you’ve designated for a yard sale, donation or the junk -yard. If you donate, be sure to get a receipt for income tax purposes.

• Plan for short-term or long-term storage at destination if needed.

• File a change of address with the Postal Service. If you are unsure of your new address, ask the postal service to hold your mail at their office in your new city.

• Schedule disconnection of all utility services at your old home, and connection of them at your new one. Be sure to disconnect the day after you leave and connect the day before you arrive. If you have “last month” deposits with services, such as the water or gas company, request your refund.

• Schedule Movers or Truck Rental.

• Schedule use of Storage Unit.

• Hold a moving sale.

• Prepare auto registration for transfer (if moving to another state).

The last two weeks:

• Notify any creditors of your move.

• Confirm any scheduled Movers, Storage Units, etc.

• Assemble a folder of important information about the house for the new owner of your home.

• Fill any prescriptions or medications you will need for the next couple of weeks.

• Make childcare arrangements for moving day.

• Pack a travel kit:
  Put aside critical items like a checkbook, credit cards, personal phone book, ID, flashlight, keys, toiletries, tools, paper plates, cups, towels, travel alarm clock, aspirin, bandages and games for the kids. Also, pack a suitcase with clothing and other personal items.

• Pack a box of items that will be needed first at the new house. Clearly mark this box “Load Last.”

The Big Day:

• Load your goods in a pre-designated order, saving “last load” items for the rear of your shipment.