Make sure your move is smooth by creating a moving checklist.
Moving is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Thankfully, a little planning makes a big difference, and getting a head start on seemingly minor tasks goes a long way. Help take the stress out of moving with this moving checklist: your step-by-step guide to avoid last minute packing and scrambling that will help guarantee a smooth move.
Two Months Before Your Move
- Research moving companies and schedule an on-site estimate
- Start getting rid of unwanted stuff. Sell, donate or recycle items you don’t want to move
- Order necessary packing supplies, like boxes, bubble wrap and markers
- Create a moving binder or folder for moving expenses, receipts and other related documents
- Start using up goods and supplies you don’t want to move, like beauty products, nonperishable foods, etc.
- Notify your doctor(s), dentist and veterinarian, ask for referrals, and have your medical records forwarded
- Set up any travel arrangements required for the move, such as rental cars, flights, hotel rooms and pet care
One Month Before Your Move
- Select your mover and moving date, and get the details in writing
- Start packing items you’re unlikely to need before your move, like fine china, camping equipment and specialty kitchen appliances
- Be sure to label each box with its contents, the room it should end up in, and any other helpful info (i.e. “Fragile”)
- Receive an appraisal on your pricey items so you can insure them for your move
- Submit a change of address. You can do this at usps.com or at your local post office
- Give your new address to your bank, insurance company and other important parties
- Notify your employer if you need the day off
Two Weeks Before Your Move
- Double-check the arrangements with your moving company
- Return any rented or borrowed items, like movie rentals and library books
- Clean out your bank safe-deposit box, storage unit and so forth
- Refill prescriptions as necessary
- Make sure your car is road trip ready if you’re driving long distance to your new destination
- Schedule a disconnect date for water, gas and other utilities
- Cancel or reroute scheduled deliveries and services, like magazine subscriptions or lawn maintenance
One Week Before Your Move
- Finish packing boxes
- Don’t forget to pack suitcases for the everyday essentials, like clothes and toiletries
- Make sure to empty and defrost your refrigerator a full day or two before moving day if you plan to take it with you
- Reconfirm the details with your moving company
- Plan accordingly for the payment, and don’t forget cash for tipping the staff (If your movers do a good job, 10 to 15 percent of the total fee is typically customary)
Moving Day
- Check and sign the moving company’s inventory list, and put your copy in your moving binder
- Make sure you have your moving company’s contact info in your moving binder
- Pack pet food, litter and any other remaining essentials
- Enjoy your new home!
For more information on how to make the best of your upcoming move, call our Melbourne office at (321) 254-2770 or call us in Orlando at (407) 447-2773. We’re happy to help!