Moving homes can be an exhilarating yet daunting experience. Amidst the excitement of a new chapter, the logistical tasks of packing, organizing, and settling into a new place can feel overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve crafted the ultimate moving checklist to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a seamless transition from your current home to your new haven.
Starting from two months before your move, down to the final moments on moving day, this comprehensive checklist breaks down essential tasks to complete at each stage. Whether you’re a seasoned mover or embarking on your first relocation, this guide covers it all: from strategic planning, decluttering, and notifying essential parties to practical tips for a stress-free moving day.
Let’s dive in and turn your moving journey into a well-organized, hassle-free experience!
TWO MONTHS BEFORE
- Go through every room of your house and decide what you would like to keep and what you can get rid of.
- Get appraisals on your expensive items, like antiques, so you can insure them before your move.
- Start investigating moving options. Get estimates from professional movers or truck rental companies. Do not rely on a quote over the phone from a moving company; request an on-site estimate. Get an estimate in writing from each company and hire/book one as soon as you have your moving date. Movers and trucks can book up fast during certain times of year.
- Create a moving folder or booklet. Use this binder to keep track of everything—all your estimates, your receipts, and an inventory of all the items. Take photos and make videos of your possessions before you start packing.
- Go to your children’s school and arrange for their records to be transferred to their new school district.
- Determine what packing supplies you will need if you are packing your own items and start purchasing/ordering them.
- Research banks in the area you will be moving to if you must switch banks and establish new accounts.
- Get routine check-ups from your current doctor, dentist, &/or eye doctor.
- Schedule upcoming pet exams and vaccinations to happen before the move and get recommendations for veterinarians in your new town so that your pets’ records can be transferred.
- Use up things that will be difficult to move like frozen food and pantry items.
ONE MONTH BEFORE
- If you haven’t already booked a mover, select a company and get written confirmation of your moving date, costs, and other details.
- Start packing the things that you won’t need before the move like seasonal decorations or infrequently used items.
- Clearly label and number each box with its contents and the room it’s destined for. This will help you to keep an inventory of your belongings. Pack and label “essential” boxes of items that you’ll need right away.
- Add items such as jewelry and important files to a safe box that you’ll personally transport to your new home. Make sure to put the mover’s estimate in this box. You’ll need it for reference on moving day.
- Go to your local post office and fill out a change-of-address form, or do it online at usps.gov.
- Alert the following of your move: banks, brokerage firms, your employer’s human resources department, magazine and newspapers you subscribe to, and credit card, insurance, and utility companies.
- Discuss tax-deductible moving expenses with your accountant and begin keeping accurate records.
- Arrange for medical records to be sent to any new health-care providers or obtain copies of them yourself. Don’t forget your pets too!
- Make sure your car is ready for the trip to your new home. Make sure to get an oil change and check tires before the move or arrange a car carrier service to transport your car if you need one.
TWO WEEKS BEFORE
- Hold a yard sale to get rid of any items that you don’t want to move. Arrange for a charity pick-up of any items that are not sold.
- Notify your employer of your moving date and arrange to have the day off. Remember to include the day when your mover will arrive at your current home and the day that the mover will deliver to your new home.
- Change utilities including power, gas, trash, water, internet, & cell. If you are moving to a new area you will need to cancel service and arrange new service at your new address.
- If you’ll be changing banks, remove the contents of your safe-deposit box and put them in a safe box that you’ll take with you on moving day.
- Make special arrangements for moving or donating items that the moving company won’t take like plants, cleaning products, paint, propane tanks, etc. Check with your moving company and get a list of items that they will not take.
ONE WEEK BEFORE
- Finish up packing any items that have not been packed yet.
- Book a professional cleaning company to clean your home after you move.
- Stock up on prescriptions you’ll need for the next 2-3 weeks.
- Pack suitcases for everyone in the family with clothing and toiletries for a week.
- Gather all keys, alarm codes, garage door openers, and warranties and place them in a drawer or cabinet with your contact information so you can give them to the new owner.
- Pack a 1st Day box of items you will need before other boxes are unpacked. Include items like scissors, pens, paper towels, garbage bags, toilet paper, soap, etc.
A FEW DAYS BEFORE
- If your refrigerator is moving with you, make sure to empty, clean, and defrost it at least 24 hours before moving day.
- Double check with your moving company to confirm arrival time and other specifics. If you haven’t already arranged to pay your mover with a credit card, get a money order, cashier’s check, or cash for payment and tip. Don’t forget that refreshments are always appreciated.
- Have cash on hand for the day of the move so you can tip movers, cleaners, etc.
- Set aside boxes that include personal items or legal documents that you don’t want the moving company to take.
- Make arrangements for a final garbage pick-up if needed.
MOVING DAY
- Have refreshments on hand and order food delivery for your family and anyone helping you move.
- Keep a list of every item and box loaded on the truck and keep it with you.
- If you are not using a professional cleaner, make sure your home is clean before leaving.
- Double check all closets, cabinets, and drawers for any left behind items.
- Make sure to get contact information from your movers and let them know how to reach you if needed.
As you embark on this exciting journey to a new home, remember that preparation is your best ally. By following this comprehensive moving checklist, you’ve laid the groundwork for a successful and smooth transition. From the early stages of decluttering and organizing to the final moments on moving day, every step plays a pivotal role in ensuring a stress-free move.
Embrace the process, stay organized, and allow this checklist to be your guiding light through each phase. With meticulous planning and these detailed guidelines, you’re equipped to tackle the move with confidence and ease. Here’s to new beginnings and a seamless transition to your new abode!