Moving? Take This List and Check It Twice!

Moving your household is not for the faint-of-heart. In my adult life (since college), I've only moved four times and personally, that's four times too many for me! But in reality, moving does not have to be a nightmare if you do a little planning. Here's a handy check-list to help you get organized prior to the big day.

4 Weeks Out:

___ Set up a "Move" file/folder or perhaps even a binder with page protectors

___Set up a "Move" calendar. This could be in your file/folder/binder or on your computer, etc.

___If you have too much stuff to take with you, hold a garage sale and "cash in"

___Donate anything that didn't sell to charity

___Make sure you are pre-approved for your new home loan and keep track of all financial documentation that may be needed

___Contact your insurance company to transfer policies

___If you're moving out of the area contact doctors and dentists for copies of your records and schools for copies of student records 

3 Weeks Out:

___Review tax deductions on moving expenses with your tax preparer or CPA

___Arrange cut-off dates for utility companies and other home services (be sure to mark on your calendar!)

___Request change of address kit from the post office

___Check out voter registration info for your new area 

2 Weeks Out:

___Transfer stocks, bonds and bank accounts

___Prepare a list of clothing that will not be packed with household goods

___Catch up with any items listed above you haven't gotten around to yet! 

1 Week Out:

___Label items you will need to access easily and place them in a separate room/closet

___Clean out your refrigerator and let it air out at least 24 hours prior to moving

___Drain outdoor equipment: water hoses, propane tank from grill, oil from lawnmowers

___Discard all aerosols, paints, oils, and other flammable/toxic chemicals.  Call your local refuse company for info on where to take them - never throw these in the trash!

___Schedule with utility companies to turn on services in your new home. 

Moving Out Day:

___Relax! You've done a ton of planning and it's almost over!

___Remember, items loaded last will be unloaded first.                              

___Conduct a final walk-through of the house, including attic, stairwells, closets, cupboards, garage and storage areas. 

Moving In Day:

___Have the house ready for delivery prior to the truck's arrival

___Take a break and relax. You'll need to conserve energy for all the unpacking ahead!