Moving to a new home is an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming without proper planning. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, having a detailed checklist can make all the difference. Here’s your ultimate moving guide, designed to help you stay organized and stress-free throughout the process.
Before You Begin: Preparation is Key
Before you start packing, it’s essential to lay the groundwork for a successful move. This includes signing all necessary documents, understanding the extent of your carrier’s liability, and reviewing the estimate or order for service. It’s crucial to carefully read and sign all documents related to your move to avoid any surprises down the line.
Additionally, create a priority list of items to be packed and decide what you no longer need. Consider donating, selling, or discarding items that won’t make the journey to your new home. If you plan on doing any packing yourself, now is the time to decide and inform your move counselor. Keep their number handy; they’re there to assist you at every step.
A Month Before: Start Early
- Use Up Pantry Items: Begin using up canned and frozen food, and avoid buying items that won’t be consumed before the move. Check with your move coordinator if you can donate pantry items to charity.`
- Notify Personal Accounts: Create a list of personal accounts that need notification of your move. This includes utility services, mail carriers, doctors, pharmacies, and any subscriptions you may have.
- Plan for Unwanted Items: If you have items you won’t be moving, now is the time to plan a yard sale or arrange donation drop-offs.
Less than a Month: Final Preparations
- Update Your Move Counselor: Notify your move counselor of any changes to your move, such as additions or subtractions to your pre-move survey or any extra stops required.
- Host a Going-Away Party: Take a break from packing to enjoy a going-away party with friends and family. Also, visit local landmarks that hold sentimental value for you.
- Prepare Household Items: Have rugs and draperies cleaned and wrapped, but avoid cleaning upholstered furniture as hidden moisture can lead to mold during the move. Obtain written appraisals for any antiques to verify their value.
The Week of the Move: Final Touches
- Pack an Essentials Box: Create a box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. Include cleaning supplies, toiletries, snacks, and miscellaneous tools to avoid digging through boxes after a long day of moving.
- Empty and Defrost: Empty your refrigerator and freezer, and defrost them at least 24 hours before your move. This will prevent mildew, mold, and odor.
The Day Before the Move: Last-Minute Preparations
- Resist Staging Temptation: Avoid staging items like dishes, mirrors, and beds. Ensure dishes are clean, and beds are stripped of sheets—your packers will handle the rest.
- Label Personal Items: Mark any items you plan to take with you personally with a label stating, “DO NOT PACK & DO NOT LOAD.” This ensures they won’t be accidentally packed away.
The Day of the Move: Stay Organized and Relax
- Charge Your Phone: Keep your phone fully charged to avoid any communication issues during transit. If possible, have a power bank with you as a backup.
- Create a Floor Plan: Design a floor plan of your new home and put up signage, so movers know where to place each box. This will save time and effort during the unloading process.
- Final Checks: Take a final look around to ensure nothing is left behind. Check that all faucets and lights are turned off, locked, or disconnected.
- Call Utility Companies: Ensure that your new home is ready to use by contacting utility companies to hook up all necessary services.
Upon Arrival: Settling Into Your New Home
- Inspect Your Goods: As your items are unloaded, check for any damages or missing items. Note these on the carrier operator’s copy of the inventory sheet.
- Sign the Bill of Lading: Once you’re satisfied, approve and sign the bill of lading, which serves as a receipt for your shipment and states the terms and conditions under which your goods were moved.
- Take a Moment to Relax: Moving can be exhausting, but take a moment to relax and enjoy your new home. You’ve earned it!
Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to make your move as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Welcome to your new home!
