The Ultimate Moving Checklist: Everything You Need to Remember
- Create a Moving Binder: Use a binder to keep all moving-related documents such as estimates, receipts, and inventory in one place.
- Sort and Declutter: Start going through every room of your house, sorting through what you want to keep, sell, donate, or throw away.
- Research Moving Companies: Start researching and getting estimates from multiple moving companies. Be sure to read reviews and get all quotes in writing.
- Notify School: If you have children, inform their current school about the move and begin the process for transferring to new schools.
6 Weeks Out: Getting Organized
- Order Supplies: Purchase boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and other moving supplies.
- Start Packing: Begin with the items you use the least. Seasonal items, rarely used appliances, and books are great places to start.
- Label Everything: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
- Inventory: Keep a list of the boxes and their contents in case something goes missing.
4 Weeks Out: Details, Details, Details
- Notify Important Parties: Inform your employer, post office, insurance companies, banks, and credit card companies about the move.
- Healthcare Providers: Collect all medical records and prescriptions and find new healthcare providers.
- Utilities: Schedule your utilities to be disconnected at your current home and reconnected at your new one on moving day.
2 Weeks Out: The Final Stretch
- Finish Packing: By now, everything but the essentials should be packed.
- Confirm Moving Plans: Get in touch with your movers to confirm the date, time, and address of your move.
- Change Address: Update your address with any remaining companies or subscriptions and set up mail forwarding.
1 Week Out: Last Minute Tasks
- Pack an Essentials Bag: Pack a suitcase with clothes, toiletries, and important items for the first few days in your new home.
- Deep Clean: Start cleaning rooms as they become empty.
- Empty Your Refrigerator: Start using up perishable food and dispose of any that won’t make the move.
Moving Day: You’ve Made It
- Walk Through: Do a final walk-through of your house to make sure nothing has been forgotten.
- Handover: Ensure you have keys, alarm codes, and garage remotes ready to hand over to the new owner or real estate agent.
- Arrive Early: If possible, arrive at your new home before the movers to direct them on where to put everything.
- Celebrate: You’ve done it! Enjoy your first night in your new home. Remember, unpacking doesn’t have to be done in one day.
Remember, every move is unique and you may need to adjust this checklist to suit your specific needs. Keep calm, stay organized, and happy moving!