Moving Tips for a Smooth Move
Planning is key to making a smooth move. You can never start planning too early. Start with a list of all your to do's and add to it as you think of things. Then start breaking down the list into weekly and daily chores. Here are some of the highlights.
2 Months Before:
Tracking:
Start a keep track file and check list of things you have done and things you still need to do. make a list of all your address change needs (credit cards, magazines, etc) and utility changes.
Room Discovery:
Go through each room and see what can be thrown away - given away - what things do you no longer need or like? Make an inventory of items you are moving and those that you will sell or donate. Oh and those items from the last move that never got opened.. donate them!
Kitchen and Pantry:
The last thing you want to think about sorting your pantry and freezer. Tackle this job early. Plan meals around pantry and freezer items. Use up as much as you can so you do not need to consider moving those items. Then when it comes time to throw away things, you won't feel so bad!
House Plants:
Move or give away? Consider your options! Depending on your climate, some might even be happy finding a new spot in the garden.
School Records:
Arrange for School records to be transferred to your new schools.
Medical Records:
Request a referral to a doctor and dentist in the area that you are moving to and have your medical records transferred.
Research:
Investigate moving companies and make a list of questions you need to ask. Get estimates in writing and check up on their credentials and
customer reviews.
Pet Transfers:
Call the airline or Pet Transporters regarding arrangements to move your pets. Don't forget to get your pets records from the Vet for your new clinic.
Order Packaging: See what containers|wrapping|tape|label pens you may need so you do not need to worry moving day when things become hectic. Many times you can find free or cheap used supplies on Craigslist.
Confirm Your Mover:
Select your mover and confirm the quote and date of move and details for moving day. PODS is a great resource if you have to DYI.
One Month Before:
Packing and Labeling: Start Packing the least used items first and label each box on all 4 sides for ease of unpacking.
Do two or three boxes every day so you don't have last minute panic packing.
Change of Address:
Notify USPS of your change of address,. Then tackle the banks, store cards, cancel newspaper subscriptions, change of address for your magazines, contact your cable company and give notice, telephone service providers, insurers and utility companies.
Cleaning: Start wiping out cupboards as you empty the shelves and dust the blinds, light fittings and fans when you are packing the room. That makes it easy when you just have to wash floors and vacuum carpets the day of moving.
One week before:
Arrival Box: Pack an arrivals box with items you will need straight away - Cleaning materials, Bedding, tea, coffee, sugar, milk, some easy to snack crackers maybe or cookies, plastic cups and plates, maybe even a bottle of wine?
Car Check:
Have your motor vehicle serviced and checked over for a safe road trip to your new home.
Prescriptions:
Get at least one or two months prescription refills before you leave so you have time to settle on the other side, without worrying about medication.
Defrost Your Fridge and Get the Oven Cleaned:
Clean out the Fridge and Freezer and use up items that cannot be transported with you. The Oven can be cleaned and the cook top can be done the day before you move.
Confirm the Mover:
Confirm time and details with the moving company and arrange the insurance.
Utilities at Your New Home:
Arrange for your utilities to be transferred|switched on at your new location. Nothing worse than trying to organize that on arrival day!
Keys:
Arrange the walk through on the home you are leaving and also make suitable arrangements to collect your keys on the other side, keeping in mind you may have delays and need a plan B. Book a hotel with a flexible cancellation policy, just in case.
Good Luck - You are all set for a smooth move.
