7 Weeks Until Your Move
Create a ‘moving file’ for estimates, receipts and other move related information and start a moving notebook either on a laptop computer or notebook.
Take inventory of your belongings before they're packed; in the event you need to file an insurance claim later. If possible, take pictures or videotape your belongings. Record serial numbers of electronic equipment.
Find maps and start researching your new community. Get familiar with the area by studying the map and by using the internet. Make a list of all the important things near your new home; police and fire stations, grocery stores etc.
6 – 7 Weeks Until Your Move
Get quotes from full service, container based or truck rental moving companies. If using full service movers, schedule the company to come to your home and take a professional inventory and give an estimate.
Order strong moving boxes and packing supplies from moving companies or the internet.
Start packing early as the amount of time and work required is always underestimated. Start de-cluttering and tagging garage sale or donation items. Schedule and start advertising for a garage sale if desired.
If you are using professional movers and not driving yourself, make plans with airlines, buses, car rental agencies and hotels. Start thinking about transporting any pets. Plan ahead for special needs of infants.
Obtain medical and dental records, x-rays, and prescription histories. Ask doctor and dentist for referrals and transfer prescriptions.
Start eating all of the food in your pantry, so there is less to pack.
Investigate schools or day care centers
5 – 6 Weeks Until Your Move
Investigate home insurance options as you will need for your mortgage.
Investigate a home warranty to protect your valuable household items and appliances.
4 - 5 Weeks Until Your Move
Set up utilities at new home and schedule disconnection at current home.
Get connected with cable, phone, internet etc. in your new home. Schedule the disconnection at your current home and the connection at your new home.
3 – 4 Weeks Until Your Move
Consider storage needs, decide between portable and traditional storage and get quotes from companies.
2 – 3 Weeks Until your move
Look for new doctors, dentists, veterinarians in your new area and transfer records.
Ensure all cable, phone, utilities have been transferred or updated.
Have appliances serviced for moving.
Clean rugs and other items like drapes or clothing to have them prepared for moving.
1 – 2 Weeks Until Your Move
Switch utility services to new address. Arrange for help on moving day.
Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Before closing, be sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven't been processed.
Check with your insurance agent to ensure you'll be covered through your homeowners or renters policy during the move. Look into getting additional insurance if necessary.
Fill out change of address order form for post office and IRS. Inform, disposal, water, newspaper, magazine subscription, etc. companies of your move.
Defrost, clean and dry refrigerator as well as any icebox or freezer. Make sure it is dry before moving.
Day Before Move
Put all of your essential items like cleaning supplies, toiletries, items for children or pets in a marked box to be loaded last and unloaded first or to be taken with you in your car.
Finish packing all your garments as you have saved them for the previous week.
After Move
Tour your new area and get comfortable with where everything is…take the time to learn the streets early.
Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags/license plates and take care of all local legalities.
Shop around for new insurance policies.
Revise your will and other legal papers to reflect your new address.
Locate local hospitals, police stations, veterinarian and fire stations.
Check all of your systems and major appliances and consider a home warranty. A home warranty cannot prevent systems or appliances from breaking down, but it can help make covered repairs or replacements easier and less costly.
Meet your neighbors!