Moving tips

We recommend that you start a moving file. Print this list out and check off things as they are accomplished. Keep your written estimate , this list and other moving documents together.

One month before your move:

Prepare an inventory of all your household items. You will need this when you contact movers for estimates
Call movers for estimates and discuss the costs involved. Reserve your move date.
Determine other moving expenses and prepare a rough budget.
Sell or give away anything you don't want.
Visit your bank and advise them of your moving plans so they can offer recommendations on setting up accounts at a new financial institution where you will be moving. This will be an immense help in transferring your accounts.
Notify your doctor and dentist of your move in order to have records and prescriptions transferred.
If you have pets, arrange for their boarding during your pre-move and for shipping when you move. Contact your veterinarian for your pet' s records , and try to have all of their shots and treatments done before you move. Call your new county to determine specific requirements for that area.
If you have children, find out the school they will attend and the records they will need to have transferred.
Verify requirements for auto licensing.
Notify insurance companies of your move. Transfer insurance on your house and possessions to insure coverage of your new home.
Close charge accounts you won't be using in your new community.
Ask for a transfer of credit bureau files.
Send change of address to your post office.
Send change of address cards to friends, magazines and creditors.
Notify your church or synagogue.
Cancel local deliveries.
Contact utilities for disconnection and possible refunds due to you.

Two Weeks

Empty your safe deposit box.
Pack items of sentimental value and valuable papers that you are going to take care of yourself.
Clean out your refrigerator and cabinets. Fix meals that use up food you don't want t o move.
Have your car (s) serviced for the trip.
Get a babysitter for when the movers are in your home.
Plan a furniture layout for the movers, showing where things should be in your new home.
Make hotel reservations if you are traveling for more than one day or you have to wait for the movers to arrive.
Start packing anything that the movers won't be packing.
If your home isn't sold, make maintenance and security arrangements with your real estate agent and also plan for a thorough cleaning of your house, carpets and draperies.
Check with your local tax assessors to make sure your tax records are in order.
If your home will be vacant for some time, arrange for snow removal, lawn care and notify police.

Final Days

Plan a survival package in case you have to wait for the movers:

Paper plates
Towels
Soap
Toilet paper
Bedding
Items to occupy children's time
Snacks
Water
New house keys
Pack clothes for the trip
Take a local phone directory with you
Notify someone of your travel plans
Empty gasoline from the lawn mower and discard any cleaning fluids that are flammable. The mover won't allow them to be packed
Get a cashiers check for the movers and travelers check for your trip to over any expenses until your new accounts are available
Defrost and dry your refrigerator and freezer
Have appliances and antennas disconnected
Make sure boxes are labeled. Anything not being loaded should be marked "Do Not Move" and consolidated in one area

On Moving Day

Make arrangements for pets so they won't be underfoot.
Take small children to babysitter.
Either you or someone else should be there when the movers arrive to direct them.
Review inventory sheets with movers, including destination address and contact numbers.
Take valuable documents, jewelry and money with you.
Clear access areas, parking spaces, driveways, walkways and stairs of debris.
At the completion of the loading, do a final walk through of the premises. Make sure all doors and windows are locked and lights out.

Move-In Day

Arrange to be there to meet the movers.
Make payment of final balance due.
Review the floor plan with movers and the placement of household items.
Confirm receipt of all household items by checking your inventory.
Sign Bill Of Lading confirming receipt of household items.