Moving Checklist

Here are items to consider BEFORE you MOVE to your new home from 2 months before, til moving day.  

2 MONTHS BEFORE:

□ Create a timeline of tasks to do in preparation for the move.
□ Sort through all of your belongings room-by-room discarding giving away or selling anything you won't be taking with you. 
□ Make a budget for moving expenses. Research moving companies and set appointments for them to visit and provide estimates.
□ If you will be moving yourself reserve a truck and dollies and purchase boxes and tape.
□ Create a moving binder: Use this binder to keep track of everything - all of your estimates your receipts and an inventory of all the items you are moving.
□ Organize school records: Go to your children's school and arrange for their records to be transferred to their new school district.
□ Speak to your insurance agent in case you need to transfer or cancel your insurance coverage (medical, property, fire, auto) and find a new insurance agent if necessary.

1 MONTH BEFORE:

□ Start using up perishable food. 
□ Pack items that you don't use all the time, clearly labeling each box.
□ File an official change of address with the post office. 
□ Ask your physician for copies of all medical records to give to your new health care provider. 
□ Ask your veterinarian to forward your pet's records to your new vet or ask for copies to take with you. 
□ Call your current utility companies to have the services shut off the day after you move and turned on the day before you arrive at your new destination. 
□ Contact cable company, newspaper delivery, gardener, pool person, home security company, banks, employer's human resources, credit cards and any other important contacts. 
□ Chose your mover and confirm arrangements. 
□ Separate valuables when packing. Add items such as jewelry and important files to a safe box that that you will personally transport to your new home. Put your mover's estimate in the box as well.  
□ If you are moving your pet, investigate pet moving services. 
□ Make plans for moving special items like a piano, grandfather clock, plants, etc. 
□ When packing, make sure to separate cleaning materials, tools and garbage bags so they are handy on moving day. 

2 WEEKS BEFORE THE MOVE: 

□ Ensure your pet is ready to travel. Will it need a crate? Gather up a leash, collar, food and water dishes if traveling by car. 
□ Arrange to be off from work on moving day. 
□ Find storage options for items you cannot move immediately or may need to store temporarily. 
□ Find out if you will need to convert your driver's license or get a new one. 
□ Make backup copies of important files on your computer before packing everything away. Scan paper documents so you have backup electronic versions. 
□ If you have any hazardous material you aren't taking with you, dispose of it properly (batteries, computer equipment, paint, chemicals, etc.)
□ If you are transporting a lawnmower or power tools, be safe and empty the oil and gasoline. 
□ Find a cleaning service to do a final clean of your home.  

1 WEEK BEFORE THE MOVE

□ Refill prescriptions: Stock up on prescriptions you will need during the next couple of weeks.  
□ Pack your suitcases: Pack enough clothing for everyone in the family to have enough clothes to wear for a few days. 
□ Make arrangements for someone to take care of your pet during the move. 
□ Make arrangements for payment for your moving company.

2 DAYS BEFORE THE MOVE:

□ Assemble all tools you will need to take apart furniture. 
□ Empty, defrost and clean your fridge and freezer. 
□ Double-check details: Reconfirm the moving company's arrival time and any other specifics. Make sure they have the correct directions and contact information. 

1 DAY BEFORE THE MOVE:

□ Unplug electronics so they are ready to pack. Tape each component's cords to the component so they aren't lost in the move. 
□ Disassemble furniture.
□ Pack any remaining items. 
□ Purchase bottles of water for the movers, yourself and family members. 

MOVING DAY:

□ Verify that the moving company that shows up is the company that you hired. The USDOT number painted on the side of the trucks should match the number on the estimate you were given.  
□ Take inventory before the movers leave, sign the bill of lading/inventory list and keep a copy. 
□ Do a final check both inside and outside of the house. Do not leave your old house until after the movers have gone. 
□ Turn off all lights, heating, air conditioning and water. Lock all doors and windows. 

AFTER THE MOVE:

□ Upon moving in, change all locks and get a security/alarm system. 
□ Find inspiration from magazines, websites etc for ideas on how to personalize your home. 
□ One you are settled in, have a housewarming party!