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Moving Checklist

WHAT TO DO 1-2 MONTHS BEFORE MOVING?

    • Create binder/folder for moving records (estimates, receipts, inventory lists, etc.)

    • Plan your moving method (truck rental, hiring movers, etc) and get cost estimates

    • See if your employer will provide moving expense benefits


    • Research storage facilities if needed

    • Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new place

    • Plan how you will move vehicles, plants, pets and valuables


    • Plan how you will arrange furniture in the new place – use a floor plan or sketch

    • Hold a garage sale, donate, sell, or trash unnecessary items

    • Schedule transfer of records (medical, children in school, etc.)


    • Get copies of any records needed (medical, dental, etc.)

    • Acquire packing materials (boxes, tape, stuffing/padding, markers, etc.)

    • Make any home repairs that you have committed to making


  • Return borrowed, checked-out and rented items

  • Get things back that you have lent out

  • Start using up food you have stored so there is less to move

WHAT TO DO 3-4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING?

    • Finalize moving method and make necessary arrangements

    • Begin packing non-essential items

    • Label boxes by room and contents


    • Separate valuable items to transport yourself – label as DO NOT MOVE

    • Keep a box out for storing pieces, parts and essential tools that you will want

    • Create an inventory list of items and box contents, including serial numbers


    • Fill out a Change of Address form at a post office or online

    • Provide important contacts with your new address:

    • Notify your insurance and credit card companies about change of address


  • Cancel automated payment plans and local accounts/memberships if necessary

  • Take your vehicle(s) in for a tune-up, especially if you are traveling very far

WHAT TO DO 1-2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING?

    • Continue packing and clean as you go

    • Pack items separately that you will need right away at your new place

    • Plan to take the day off for moving day


    • Find useful things for your children to do – involve them as much as possible

    • Find someone to help watch small children on move day

    • Begin to pack your suitcases with clothes and personal items for the trip


    • Reconfirm your method of moving with those involved

    • Make sure your prescriptions are filled

    • Empty out your safe deposit box, secure those items for safe travel


    • Schedule cancellation of services for your old place

    • Check your furniture for damages – note damages on your inventory

    • Take furniture apart if necessary (desks, shelves, etc.)


    • Make sure all paperwork for the old and new place is complete

    • If traveling far, notify credit card company to prevent automated deactivation

    • Get rid of flammables such as paint, propane, and gasoline


  • Try and use up perishable food

WHAT TO DO 2 DAYS BEFORE AND ON THE MOVING DAY?

    • Confirm all moving details and that you have necessary paperwork

    • Make a schedule or action plan for the day of the move

    • Plan when/how to pick up the truck (if rented)


    • Prepare for the moving expenses (moving, food, lodging)

    • Continue cleaning the house as you are packing

    • Defrost your freezer and clean the fridge


    • Make sure essential tools are handy (screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, tape, etc)

    • Pack a bag for water bottles, pen/paper, snacks, documents, and essentials

    • Set aside boxes/items that you are moving yourself (make sure you’ll have room)


    • Remove bedding and take apart beds

    • Go early to pick up the truck if you rented one

    • Take movers/helpers through the house to inform them of what to do


    • Walk through the empty place to check for things left behind – look behind doors

    • Leave your contact info for new residents to forward mail

    • Take inventory before movers leave, sign bill of lading


    • Make sure your movers have the correct new address

    • Perform an initial inspection, note all damages, take photographs if needed

    • Direct movers/helpers where to put things


  • Begin unpacking, starting with kitchen, bathroom and other essentia