While making the big move might seem like a massive undertaking, it doesn't have to be. All you need to succeed is a little planning.
We know that sometimes just making an organized game plan can be intimidating, but we have some good news for you! Follow this eight-week moving checklist so you can keep your move on track!
8 weeks before the move
Eight weeks might seem far, but in reality your big move is just around the corner. Start gathering estimates from at least three moving companies. Leave no stone unturned when seeking the best price, and give your homeowners insurance agent a call to find out how much of your move is covered. And don’t forget to arrange coverage for your new home as well.
If you’ve got any children, arrange to transfer their school records so they can start at their new school the second you finish unpacking. And if you’re relocating for work, contact your employer to see what costs they could cover.
6 weeks before the move
It’s time to start packing! Clean out your closets and start packing up clothes you know isn’t currently in season. This is also a good time to pick your mover and inquire about moving insurance. Finally, make sure to complete your change of address cards at the post office, so you don’t miss any important mail after the move.
4 weeks before the move
Only one month until you get inside your new home—how exciting! Don’t stress if you’ve still got work to do. Prepare directions and coordinate timing with your moving company to ensure everything goes smoothly. Check in with your pharmacy to have your prescriptions forwarded to your new one.
3 weeks before the move
If you haven’t started packing yet, don’t worry! We’re all procrastinators, right? Now would be a good time to get started so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute. If you’ve gotten a head start on packing, hold a garage sale or donate any unneeded material to charity.
This is an important one: gather your auto licensing and registration documents, along with medical, dental and school records, birth certificates, wills, deeds, stock and other financial documentation and store it in a safe, accessible place. And be sure to reach out to your utility companies to disconnect services at your old home and connect them at your new home.
1 week before the move
Moving day is just seven days away! Make your travel arrangements if you are moving a long distance and organize childcare on moving day.
2-3 days before the move
Get those refrigerators and freezers defrosted and gather all valuables you can’t take with you during your move and give them to family or friends to keep until the move is finished.
Moving day
The big day is finally here! Before you say goodbye to your old home and hello to your new one, disconnect all major appliances. Keep your copies of the bill of lading and inventory from the movers until your possessions are delivered, charges are paid and any claims are settled. Do one final walkthrough to make 100 percent sure you didn’t forget anything. It might take time, but be sure to check every cabinet and drawer for anything that you might have left behind.
At your final destination
Be at your home to welcome the movers. After the job is completed, pay what is owed. Keep in mind, the driver is obligated by law to collect payment upon delivery. Check carefully for any damaged or missing items from the inventory list and place moving and other documents in safe storage.
With that, your move is done. Once you get the furniture where you want it, kick back and relax in your new home!