MOVING COUNTDOWN - Plan Your move!

MOVING COUNTDOWN - Plan Your move!                                                 

Planning and preparing for your upcoming move will allow your move to proceed smoothly. Here's a suggested schedule of tasks to help keep you focused and on track:

8 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:

• If using the services of a professional moving company, obtain estimates and choose the one best suited for your needs.
• If doing it yourself, obtain estimates from truck rental companies and be sure to reserve in advance. Don't forget to consider additional moving "needs": dolly, moving blankets, etc.
• Draw a floor plan of your new place and what furniture stays and what will go.
• Lessen the items for moving by consuming food and put aside items that aren't making the move for either a garage sale or donation. 

 6 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:

• Discuss and nail down the costs of insurance, packing and delivery with your mover. Learn the claims procedure for damaged items.
• Inventory all of your possessions. Use a digital camera for a visual record.
• Determine which items will be placed in a garage sale or donated.
• If moving out of the area, obtain medical and dental records, legal files and make arrangements to transfer children's school records.
• Obtain a change of address kit from the US Postal Service. Don't forget to notify magazine or catalog subscriptions of your new address.

4 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:

• If using a packing service for your possessions, schedule this 1 to 2 days prior to loading the moving van or truck.
• Arrange for temporary storage if required.
• Hold a garage sale. Donate any remaining items to a local church, or charity such as Goodwill®, or the Salvation Army®. Document and record these items and obtain a receipt if they are to be used for tax reduction purposes.
• If this is a self-move, calculate and purchase moving cartons and boxes.

3 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:

• Assemble packing materials: furniture pads, dolly, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, scissors, utility knife, marker pens, boxes.
• Begin packing any items you currently don't need. Hint: don't overpack heavy items in a single carton to ease lifting.
• Arrange for the cancellation of utilities and acquire service for your new destination.

2 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:

• Cancel any direct deposit or automatic payment services on bank accounts you are closing.
• Make any special arrangements to move a family pet. Obtain records from your veterinarian.
• Have your car checked and serviced; ensure all fluids are at the appropriate levels. Replace excessively worn tires.
• Cancel the delivery of any newspaper subscriptions and arrange for delivery at your new location.

1 WEEK PRIOR TO YOUR MOVE:                                                                        

• Tranfser prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new location.
• Arrange for babysitting service for moving day, if needed.
• Return any library books or video movies.
  • Have the moving professionals pack your items.
  • Set valuables and important papers or documents aside to go with you.
  • Pack extra clothing and essential toiletries in preparation for any delays.
  • Pack up useful "first day" items (see MOVE DAY).

DAY PRIOR TO MOVE:                                                                                           

• Do-it-yourself movers should pick up the moving truck or van early.
• Make a list of each item and box loaded onto the moving truck.
• Provide your mover with contact numbers to reach you.
• Arrange for locksmith to change locks at your new residence.

MOVING DAY:

• Check to make sure all utilities are off, Make a final walk through to ensure nothing is left behind. Lock all doors and windows.
• Check all boxes and items removed from moving truck.
• Have your "first day" items handy: scissors, utility knife, coffee and coffee pot, tea kettle, bottled water, paper plates, paper towels, toilet paper, bar soap, dish soap, bath towels, pencils and paper, trash bags, toiletries kit, shelf liner.

If you need assistance locating a professional mover, moving supplies, or simply need tips or advice moving or relocating to or from Lafayette, LA - contact us! We are here to help you meet your needs and achieve your real estate goals. We offer client counseling and services that cater to both buyers and sellers.

We set the standard for exceptional service in Lafayette, Abbeville, Breaux Bridge, Broussard, Carencro, Crowley, New Iberia, Opelousas, Rayne, Scott, St. Martinville, Ville Platte, and Youngsville.