Some helpful tips to plan the moving process.
Moving Day….Planning Makes the Process Easier
Make your move to your new home as stress free as possible. Keep track of all those details that might throw a snag in your plans. Use our handy relocation guide to keep organized.
Your moving experience can either be a nightmare or it can be an adventure. If you plan well you can make it easier. We have compiled a list of questions and suggestions from our relocation experience to help make your move as easy as possible.
Planning Your Move
- Choose a moving company–professionals or friends?
- Choose a date–weekend or weekday.
- Trucks-Renting or let a pro do it?
- Moving truck–how big? Can you handle it?
- Packing Tips
- Wardrobe boxes–worth it?
- Used boxes–do you really know what was in there before?
- Lamp Shades–cover in plastic(bags) and box to avoid crushing.
- Make a move in box with necessities –sheets, towels, toiletries, tissues and a change of clothes, food etc.Mark wires for stereos, TVs and computers for easy re-installation.
- Label everything. A few minutes now can save headaches later.
What to pack, what to sell and what to toss
- Cull through closets, attics, basements, garages and sheds.
- Really look at your things and decide if you need it. If you don’t need it– Can you donate it to charity?
- Can you sell it–have a garage sale?
- List your unwanted items on ebay, Craigslist and Facebook marketplace.
- Give your friends a chance at your unused stuff before you throw it away.
Handling kids during a move
- Have friends take care of kids during move.
- Listen to your kids concerns, worries, and look for signs of stress.
- Be there for your kids, don’t let your own distress make you insensitive.
- Show kids their new school, take them on a tour.
- Introduce your kids to neighbor kids before you move.
- Don’t Dismiss your children’s anxiety about moving — acknowledge and assure.
Quick list of things to do
- Find out about schools in your new area…we can help.
- Set up garbage service.
- Establish new utility accounts.
- Change your drivers license address
- Forward your mail.
Services to transer/establish/discontinue
- Internet, Phone, Cable
- Garbage, Water, Gas, Electricity, Fuel Oil
- Lawn Service, Water Softener, Pest Control, Newspaper
8 WEEKS Before the Move
Contact a professional mover or truck rental and get estimates: make early reservations. Decide what furniture stays and what furniture goes. Use up things that cannot be moved (frozen food and flammable household cleaning supplies).
6 WEEKS Before the Move
Inventory your possessions and determine what will be sold or donated. Get copies of records from doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants, etc. Transfer children’s’ school records.
4 WEEKS Before the Move
Hold a garage sale then arrange for storage, if necessary.
3 WEEKS Before the Move
Assemble packing materials: dolly, scissors, packing tape, bubble wrap, newspaper, rope, boxes, etc. Begin packing items you won’t need. Arrange cancellation of utilities at old home and have them installed at the new home. Make travel and hotel reservations. Get car license, registration, and insurance in order.
2 WEEKS Before the Move
Transfer bank account and cancel direct deposit or automatic payments on account your are closing. Make special arrangements for moving pets. Consult your Veterinarian for tips on making the move easier. Get your car checked and serviced for the trip.
1 WEEK Before the Move
Transfer all medical prescriptions to the pharmacy in your new location. Finish major packing, labeling boxes by contents and room destinations.
3 DAYS Before the Move
Defrost refrigerator. Have cash on hand. Pack a weekend bag in case of delay. Pack a handy “First Day Kit”: scissors, utility knife, coffee cups, tea kettle, paper plates, instant coffee, tea, soft drinks, soap, pencil and paper, local phone book, bath towel and toiletries.
MOVING DAY
Pick up rental truck early. Inspect basement, attic and garage. Turn off water, lock all doors and windows. List every item loaded into the truck to use as a checklist as them come off.