Moving can be a hassle, despite how well-prepared you are. This list can help organize even the most cluttered areas and make the process easier before the move, during the move and after you’ve started settling into your new location.
One Month Before the Move:
- Make sure your address has been updated at the post office. This can even be completed online.
- Update your address with the IRS
- Research and decide on a moving company or a rental vehicle and book your reservation
- Have your medical records transferred for yourself, your spouse and your children to your new physician. Ask your current doctor for a referral to a new physician if necessary.
- Transfer any school records for your children, if applicable.
- Update the information for all of your insurance companies like auto, home etc. Find out if your belongings are covered under your current policy during the transition.
- Set up cancellation dates with utility companies including cable and any home services like lawn or pool care.
- Change the address your creditors have on file, and transfer over any magazine subscriptions or newspaper deliveries.
Two Weeks Before the Move:
- Cancel utility services like electric and gas and have their termination dates set for the day after the move
- Purchase any necessary packing supplies, or bring home boxes from work or the grocery store.
- Consider any necessary travel arrangements for the big day, and come up with a plan for pets or small children
- Begin the packing process. Go through the home systematically and label boxes clearly. If possible, try to make a neat, organized list of what each box contains. Leave items that are still needed daily out, preferably in a centralized location and pack this box last.
One Week Before the Move:
- Make sure that your reservations with the moving company or truck rental are confirmed.
- Put all your important documents in one, secured place. These should be carried with you during the moving process and not packed away with everything else.
- Call your local pharmacy and have your prescriptions transferred
- Move or Transfer your existing bank accounts and make sure to order checks that show your new address.
- Notify your friends and family of your new address via postcards or online.
- Return any library books, movies or other items that you have borrowed from friends or coworkers.
- Make sure your almost-former home is cleaned thoroughly, from scrubbing the walls to steaming the carpets. Don’t forget to empty the cupboards and clean appliances.
The Day Before the Move:
- Visit the ATM to have cash on hand in order to tip any drivers or movers you have hired to help
- Buy water to keep hydrated during the moving process as well as any snacks to have nearby.
- Pack the last of your belongings, but leave a small suitcase out for pajamas, a change of clothes and any toiletries to be carried with you.
Moving Day:
- Make a note of all your meter readings to check against the balances on your final bills
- If you’ve hired movers, supervise them and offer guidance for special items. Confirm any details with them about your destination’s address and what time your items will be delivered.
- Confirm your travel plans with a friend or family member and notify them where you’ll be staying if moving will take longer than one day.
- Make sure to arrive at your destination before the movers
After the Move:
- Visit the local DMV and update the address for your driver’s license. Exchange license plates if you have moved out of state, and register your vehicle.
- Lastly, change your address with your employer and any other creditors that may have been overlooked.
