Smooth Move Checklist
Ready to move? Check below to see the best steps in getting organized for your move!
Two Months Prior to Moving Day:
- If you are using a mover, get a few estimates from moving companies.
- If you are moving yourself, get costs from at least two truck rental companies.
- Begin to remove clutter, pack up all items not used on a daily basis (photos, files etc.)
- Start a file for all of your moving paperwork (estimates, receipts, etc.).
- Arrange to transfer school records.
- Get your new home ready- contact painters, carpenters, plumbers, roofers, etc., so your home is ready when you arrive.
Six Weeks Prior to Moving Day:
- Go to USPS.com and fill out change of address form
- Make arrangements for storage if necessary.Ask your doctor or health plan provider for referrals, and obtain all medical records
- Clean all closets and drawers.
- Start using foods and cleaning supplies that can’t be moved
Three Weeks Prior to Moving Day:
- Prepare auto registration for transfer (if moving to another state).
- If you are moving in or out of an apartment, arrange for use of the elevator.
- Make child-care arrangements for moving day.
- Hold your moving sale.
Two Weeks Prior to Moving Day:
- Arrange for disposal of anything not sold at your moving sale.
- Return any borrowed items (including library books) and retrieve any loaned items.
- Notify any creditors of your move.
- Transfer prescriptions and be sure you have an adequate supply of medications on hand.
- Assemble a file folder of information to leave for the new owner of your home.
- One week before your move, send change-of-address cards to everyone who will need to contact you.
One Day Prior to Moving Day:
- Disconnect and prepare major appliances for the move.
- Set aside anything that will travel in your car so it will not be loaded on the truck.
- Pack a travel kit: Put aside critical items like a checkbook, credit cards, personal phone book, ID, flashlight, keys, toiletries, tools, paper plates, cups, towels, travel alarm clock, aspirin, bandages and games for the kids. Also, pack a suitcase with clothing and other personal items.
- Obtain cash or traveler’s checks for the trip and to pay the movers.
- Confirm arrival time of your moving van/truck.
- If moving yourself, dismantle beds and other large furniture.
Moving Day:
- If using a mover, be sure someone is at the old house to answer questions.
- Note all utility meter readings.
- Read your bill of lading and inventory carefully before signing. Keep this paperwork in a safe place.
Delivery Day:
- Check your belongings carefully and note on the inventory paperwork any damaged items.
- On an interstate move, be prepared to pay the driver before your possessions are unloaded.
- Supervise unloading and unpacking.
- Be prepared to pay your mover with cash, certified check, or traveler’s checks unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
Now kick back, relax, and enjoy your new home!