Moving Guide
6-8 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
- Make a list of items you plan on moving to your new home and items you wish to take to storage. Make a list of items to be handled by the mover and those you will handle yourself. Dispose of the items that you do not need and consider a garage sale if you have time.
- Get estimates from several moving companies. After selecting your mover, discuss costs, packing, timing and other necessary details.
- Many moving expenses are tax deductible, so maintain a file with important information and receipts for moving related expenses.
- If moving to a new community, find out about the schools, parks, recreation, and community programs from the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitor’s Bureau.
- Transfer medical, property, fire and auto insurance through your insurance agent.
Place all your medical records in a safe place. Do not forget prescriptions, vaccination records and other important infomation.
4-5 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
- Make a list of items you plan on moving to your new home and items you wish to take to storage. Make a list of items to be handled by the mover and those you will handle yourself. Dispose of the items that you do not need and consider a garage sale if you have time.
- Get estimates from several moving companies. After selecting your mover, discuss costs, packing, timing and other necessary details.
- Many moving expenses are tax deductible, so maintain a file with important information and receipts for moving related expenses.
- If moving to a new community, find out about the schools, parks, recreation, and community programs from the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitor’s Bureau.
- Transfer medical, property, fire and auto insurance through your insurance agent.
Place all your medical records in a safe place. Do not forget prescriptions, vaccination records and other important infomation.
2-4 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
- If you have young children, you might want to arrange for a baby-sitter on moving day to ensure they remain safe during the loading process.
- Remember to return library books and anything you have borrowed. Also collect items you have loaned out.
- You may NOT want to pack your valuables in the moving van, think about taking them with you.
- Plants – some state laws do not allow moving house plants. Plants could be given to friends or perhaps a local charity.
- If you are going to travel by car, you may want to get the automobile serviced prior to your departure.
- Start packing items you don’t currently need. If renting a storage unit, determine which items go to storage and which items go to your new home.
1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING
- Make sure your items are labeled: ‘fragile’, ‘load first’, ‘load last’, and ‘do not load’. This is important to ensure the safety of your items.
- Ensure that your moving company knows the correct address and phone number your new home. If possible, also provide them with an address and phone number to get in touch with you until you get to your new home.
- It is important to empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator at least a day before moving.
- Make plans flexible, make arrangements in case of delays. Confirm travel arrangements and keep items you will need while the rest of your belongings are in transit.
- Pack a box separately with the things you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home.For example- snacks, disposable plates and cups, bathroom items and trash bags.
MOVING OUT DAY
- Thoroughly check your closets, drawers, shelves, attic, and garage to make sure nothing is left.
Turn off all the switches and lock all doors and windows. - Be around throughout the loading process. Inspect the premises and see to it that nothing is left behind.
- There must be someone to direct the movers. The driver must have in writing your name and phone number. Also remember to take destination agent’s name, address and contact number.
- Sign the bill of landingand make sure your new address and phone number are correct.
MOVE-IN DAY AND AFTER
- While unloading, make sure there is no damage and no item is missing.
- Make sure utilities are connected.
- Carry traveler’s checks or cash for quick payments.
- Plan out placement of major items in your home.
- If moving to a new state, you will need to renew your driver’s license and revise will and other legal papers. Locate the hospitals, police stations, and fire stations near your new home.