Moving Tips

Having made many moves both locally and across the country, I have found that organization and preparation is key to a successful move.  To help make the move a little easier and less stressful, I have compiled a Checklist  for Moving.  The list is divided into 3 sections:  Before Moving, On Moving Day and At Your New Home.  So let’s get busy….

Before Moving

Address Change:

Bank:

  • Review and cancel automatic payments for services and utilities you will no longer be using.
  • Withdraw enough cash for expenses

Insurance:

  • Notify Auto, Fire, Health and Life companies of new location for coverages

Utility Companies:

  • Electric, Gas, Water, Fuel, Telephone, Garbage and Satellite/Cable T.V.  Arrange to turn off day after move and get refunds on any deposits made.

Services:

  • Newspaper, Laundry, Lawn Care, Water Softener Service. Cancel or inform of new address for delivery

Children:

  • Register in new school or inform school of new address if in same school
  • Arrange for day care

Professional Services:

  • Obtain medical records and birth records, dental records, personal records from accountant and lawyer
  • Transfer needed perscriptions, eyeglasses and x-rays

Pets:

  • Obtain all records

Prepare and Do the Following

  • Empty freezer (plan on using food before the move)
  • Defrost freezer and clean refrigerator
  • Clean rugs  before moving
  • Wash clothes before moving
  • Plan for care of pets and children on day of move
  • Obtain relocation information from Real Estate Agent  or local Chamber of Commerce
  • Arrange for storage if needed
  • Assemble packing materials
  • Have your car checked and serviced for the trip
  • Pack at least 2 days of extra clothing in case of delays
  • Pack pet dishes and 2 days of food for pets
  • Do not pack your cell phone charger
  • Put together supplies needed for first day at new home (toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, soap, towels, scissors, trash bags, utility knife, pencils, paper and other toiletries)

On Moving Day

  • Make a list of every item and box loaded onto truck
  • Label every box with room destination, kitchen, garage etc.
  • Ask to have cleaning tools, vacuum cleaner, mops, brooms and bedding loaded on truck last so it is first out
  • Make sure you have cash and travelers checks
  • Carry jewelry, irreplaceable photos or DVD’s and documents with you — DO NOT PACK
  • Turn off all appliances and lock all doors
  • Leave all old keys needed with Realtor
  • Make sure you have your cell phone and charger
  • Let the movers know where you can be reached

At Your New Home

  • Check all boxes and items as they come off the truck
  • Install new locks
  • Check on service of gas, electricity, water, telephone, garbage and cable T.V.
  • Check pilot light on stove, hot water heater and furnace
  • Ask mail carrier for mail that is being held for you
  • Apply for state driver’s license or just change of address if in state
  • Register car if moved out-of-state
  • Obtain inspection sticker for car

HURRAY!  YOU MADE IT.  YOU ARE IN YOUR NEW HOME.

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