Getting Ready to Move? Don't forget this Handy Checklist!

If you are in the process of moving, you know that it is a stressful time and there are a lot of things that will need to be accomplished before the Moving Day actually arrives.  Don’t be stuck without a plan.  Use the checklist below to make sure you haven’t forgotten a thing.

Getting Ready to Move Checklist

Moving Tips - 8 Weeks Before

• Get estimates from Moving Companies and/or Truck Rentals.
• Draw up a floor plan of your new home to help decide which furniture will stay and what will go.
• Use up things that can't be easily moved (frozen foods, cleaning supplies, etc.)
• If moving to a new city, contact the Chamber of Commerce for information about your new town - your "Welcome Packet"

Moving Tips - 6 Weeks Before

• Inventory all of your possessions.
• Determine what can be sold or donated for a charitable tax donation.
• If moving to a new city, get copies of your records from doctors, dentists, lawyers, vets, etc...
• If changing school districts, make arrangements to transfer your child's school records.

Moving Tips - 4 Weeks Before

• If necessary, arrange for temporary storage of your belongings.
• Clean or repair any furniture, curtains, or carpets that need it.
• Hold a Garage Sale.  Use the extra money to splurge a little on your new place.

Moving Tips - 3 Weeks Before

• Start collecting packing materials.
• Start packing your less used items (Holiday or Seasonal Items).  Don't put too much weight in boxes.
• Make travel and hotel reservations if necessary.
• Make sure your mortgage company has all necessary paperwork and information before you pack it away.

 Moving Tips - 2 Weeks Before

• Notify any creditors of your move.
• Confirm travel arrangements for pets and family.
• Plan meals for the last week of the move to help empty the refrigerator and avoid using appliances that will already be packed.
• Assemble a folder of important information about the house for the new owner of your home. 

Moving Tips - 1 Week Before

• Notify friends and family of your new address and phone number.
• Finish packing and prepare an "essentials" box. Designate several moving boxes and items as "last load" items. Pack your suitcases and valuables separately.
• Drain water hoses and waterbed.
• Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving day. Prepare all appliances for loading.
• Fill any prescriptions or medications you will need for the next couple of weeks.
• Make childcare arrangements for moving day.
• Schedule with utility companies to have utilities turned on at your new home.

Moving-Out Checklist

• Check every room, closet and cabinet one last time before deciding everything is loaded. 
• Take note of utility meter readings.
• Prepare a letter including your new address in the house so that the new residents can forward any left over mail.
• Make sure you notify a friend or family member of your itinerary in case of an emergency or unforseen event.

Moving-In Checklist

• Before you start unloading, take this time to look things over and to ensure your utilities have been connected.
• Check to make sure all appliances and systems are working properly, and determine if there is a need to arrange for repairs.
• Pick up any mail being held at the post office and verify that your new mail is being forwarded to your new address.
• Place all boxes in or near the room they belong to when unloading into your new home.  
• Begin unpacking your necessities first and then move on to your other items.