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Learn About Moving and Relocation
Get Organized
It all starts with planning and organizing. Like any big project, you need to plan the work and then work the plan.
Purchase a special notebook to record information about your move. Purchase moving supplies: tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins, rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving clothes.
Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items.
Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses. Your costs may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your move.
Make back-ups of computer files and determine how you will move this delicate equipment.
Get In Touch
When you move there are many people you need to contact. Here is the essential call list:
Hire a reputable mover or rent a moving truck. Be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau, get estimates, purchase moving insurance and get referrals or references.
Two weeks before moving day, contact your telephone, electric, gas, cable/satellite, refuse and water companies to set a specific date when service will be discontinued. Verify this date with your real estate professional as well.
Contact utilities in your new town about service start dates, including Internet & long distance telephone services.
Notify healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists, veterinarians) of your move and ask for referrals and record transfers.
Register children for school and ask for school records to be transferred.
Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when service should be terminated.
Tell clubs, churches and organizations of your move. And if applicable, see if membership fees can be partially refunded.
Advise the post office, publications and correspondents of change of address and date of move.
Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements for new coverage
If you are moving to a new state, see if you will need new car insurance
Pack It Up
Putting your entire life into a few dozen boxes can be overwhelming. Try these tips for a smoother move:
Keep track of all your valuables; organize all the items you are moving.
Use suitcases to their full potential. Fill them with clothes or other items for the move.
Create an "Open First" box with all the things you need upon arrival (medications, toiletries, linens, first aid kit, garbage bags, phone, light bulbs, flashlight, phone books, towels, food for pets, a leash, etc.) Make sure it is the last item packed so it will be easy to retrieve. Also make sure that tools are handy for reassembling beds and other items.
Create special boxes for children to open upon first arrival. Include photos, stuffed animals, blanket, radio, CDs, etc.
As you pack, put aside and label different house related keys you come across to give the new homeowners.
Moving Day
It can be a hectic 24 hours, but there are some things you can do to make it easier.
Have tools handy for breaking down beds and appliances.
Move valuables (jewelry, legal documents, family photos & collections) yourself - don't send them with the moving company. Make sure you have a complete inventory of all your possessions.
If you are using a professional mover, check the inventory list and make sure you agree with the condition of items. Get a copy of the list for your records.
Give every room a final once over. Don't forget to check the basement, yards, attic, garage and closets.
Turn off the water heater and lower the thermostat.
Get the name of the driver and give him your contact information. Also review directions to the new home.
Settle Into Your New Home
Now it is time to settle in! In addition to unpacking, these "to-dos" will help you get up to speed.
- Contact utility companies and verify start dates.
- Resume delivery of newspapers and other publications.
- Let the local post office know that you have arrived.
- Create an emergency phone list for your new community and post on the refrigerator.
- Change batteries in smoke detectors and plan a fire escape route.
- Send a thank you note to neighbors, friends and family that assisted with the move.
- Consider changing the house locks.
- Mail "We've Moved" cards with your new address and telephone numbers to friends and family.
Relocating Time Line
The countdown to moving day starts weeks before the actual date. Be prepared by creating a moving calendar to make the big day as simple as possible.
Four weeks before the move
- Do-it-yourself movers -- lineup access to packing materials such as furniture pads, hand truck, dolly, packing tape (to tape doors closed and cords up), nylon packing string and rope, scissors, markers and utility knife. Begin packing.
- Clean or repair any appliances that need it
- Use up perishables -- such as food in the freezer
- Transfer all prescriptions to your new pharmacy
- Change any magazine subscriptions
- Make copies of important documents: school records, insurance, driver's registration, etc.
- Have rugs and drapes cleaned and keep them in bags until the mover arrives
- Collect all items being repaired, cleaned or stored
Four days before the move
- Pack suitcases for the trip to your new house. Put in extra clothes for emergencies.
- Pack an “Open first” box containing things you'll need upon arrival: sponges, paper towels, laundry detergent, paper plates, toothpaste, light bulbs, hammer, trash bags, hand soap, toilet paper, scissors, utility knife, coffee cups, tea kettle, snacks, pencils and paper, masking tape, bath towels and shelf-lining materials
- Defrost the refrigerator and freezer so they can dry at least 24 hours before the movers arrive
- Make an inventory of every item and box to be loaded onto the truck
- Set aside valuables and legal documents to go with you, not the moving van
- Take the telephone directory with you as well as important telephone numbers
- Contact your local post office and arrange to have your mail forwarded to your new address.
One day before the move
- Point out to packers any extra-fragile items needing special attention. Mark any items you do not want moved. Remember movers pack everything -- even the garbage.
- Leave mirrors and pictures on the wall for the movers to pack
- Leave beds assembled; take off sheets and blankets
- Unplug all TV sets 24 hours in advance so they will be at room temperature the day of the move. Moving a set in which heat is retained could damage internal parts.
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