Preparing For Your Move

Select Time till Move

Keeping a checklist and following the steps in our tutorial will help keep you on track for a stress-free, organized move.

6 Weeks Prior to Move Date

List all items which are to be moved and categorize by room. Contact moving companies to obtain estimates - three companies should suffice. Plan the date of the move after closing on your new home.
Contact telephone, electric, utility, and cable companies regarding the procedures to return deposits and discover services. Check with any other companies such as security, lawn service, etc. for final billing. Contact the Post Office regarding your change of address and the date of move. Most Post Offices carry the "mover's kit," provided at no cost from the Post Office, which is used to notify correspondents and publications of your change of address.
Register children in their new schools by obtaining records from your current school and completing the necessary forms. Transfer club memberships if possible or have fees refunded.

Keeping a checklist and following the steps in our tutorial will help keep you on track for a stress-free, organized move.

Contact telephone, electric, utility, and cable companies to confirm date to discontinue service. Discontinue other services such as newspaper delivery, gardeners and security. Be sure the date of moving into your new residence coincides with new services such as phone service, utility services, and cable.
Verify with moving company last minute details and packing plan.
Obtain copies of all medical records, prescriptions needed, and referrals at new location for physicians and dentists, if possible.

Keeping a checklist and following the steps in our tutorial will help keep you on track for a stress-free, organized move.

Use up cleaning supplies, aerosol containers (like hairspray), bleach, etc. Discard flammable items.
Food or frozen items cannot be packed. Use as much as possible, then prepare to clean out your refrigerator.
Pack a container with a first aid kit, some essential toiletries as well as a hammer and screwdriver. Prepare your children and pets for moving by packing a special box for their entertainment (this can include snacks and toys).
Remove fuel from equipment such as lawn mowers, gas grills, and motorcycles.
Prepare for your first night in the new residence by packing linens and pillows in dresser drawers.

Keeping a checklist and following the steps in our tutorial will help keep you on track for a stress-free, organized move.

Defrost and clean refrigerator and freezer.
Mark each box with its contents and designate a room destination on the side of the box. Have someone supervise the packing for accuracy. Fragile items and valuables may be packed prior to the mover's arrival; decide whether the movers are moving these items or not. Determine whether or not it is necessary to take photographs. Prepare your checklist of items so that you may compare with the mover's inventory.
Arrange with the new owners or real estate person where to leave keys.
Leave information with the police in case of emergency and be certain a trusted friend or relative has knowledge of your whereabouts.

Keeping a checklist and following the steps in our tutorial will help keep you on track for a stress-free, organized move.

Review the 'Bill of Lading' and mover's inventory for completeness before signing. Search the entire house before movers leave. Confirm directions, name of driver, and address of destination.
Keep copies of all transactions for tax purposes, including lodging, transportation, meals and gas.
Load up items including luggage and valuables before movers leave.
Plan to arrive at the destination prior to movers. Verify that appliances are in working codition.
Check all appliances for working condition. Call repair service if needed.
Check with the post office for any mail being held.
Review all boxes being unloaded by movers on inventory list. Make a note of any damage for insurance purposes.
You're all done! Breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy your new home!

6 Weeks