Isn’t moving the worst? While you’re moving for a new job opportunity, school, because you need a change in landscape, or simply switching to a newer, more upscale apartment community, moving will still take up a huge chunk of your time and raise your stress levels. We’ve put together an essential moving check-list to make things as hassle-free as possible.
Two months ahead:
– Research moving companies and cross reference them with the Better Business Bureau. Reach out to at least three different companies to get a moving quote. If possible have them do an onsite assessment.
– Check out your rights and responsibilities during a move at https://www.protectyourmove.gov/
– Start researching doctors, lawyers, banks, schools.
– Compile a comprehensive list of all the business and services you need to contact with your new address.
Six weeks ahead:
– Start the packing process by sorting through your belongings. Put aside any items you might be able to sell or donate. You can also get a jump start on packing, by boxing up out-of season clothing, and items and gadget that are seldom used.
– If you have children, start working with their current and future schools to transfer records. Transfer medical and veterinarian records.
Five weeks ahead
– Eliminate bulk shopping and significantly cut down on groceries. Use up all foodstuffs in your pantry.
– Buy moving supplies such as boxes and tapes and come up with a clear labeling system (numeral, color coded, by room, etc.)
– Set the exact moving date and arrange for personal time off from work
One month ahead
– Fill out your official change of address form with U.S. Post Office
– Reach out to all businesses and service providers to change addresses. This includes health insurance, car insurance, lawyers, magazine subscriptions, library, gym, voting address etc.
– Make the necessary changes to your renters insurance policy.
– Notify utilities of your move both at your current address as well as your future home. This can include: telephone, cell phone, electric, internet, gas, water, trash collection.
– Set up a room by a room packing and stick to it
Three weeks ahead
– Make thorough inventory of high-ticket items. Arrange for special transportation for valuables such jewelry, personal documents, art
– Make photographic or video inventory of the state of your belongings, noting any imperfections
Two weeks ahead
– If you’re moving large appliances, clean, empty and prep them
– Fill any prescription you might need
– Confirm the moving date and hour with your moving company. Confirm parking and take out any special permits you might need.
– Arrange for a neighbor to pick up and forward any mail that may arrive at your old address
– Stop grocery shopping and use up all foodstuff in the home
One week ahead
– Print two copies of your bill of lading
– Have all family members pack a suitcase containing at least two weeks’ worth of clothing and toiletries and finish packing up all other items
– Empty and defrost fridge at least 24 hours prior to moving
– Dispose of all perishables, flammables and any items you won’t be moving.
– Hire a cleaning company to get your new home into a shape by the time you arrive and one to clean out your old home after you’ve left
– Go through every room and closet before leaving, to make sure nothing stays behind
