Moving Tips: 1+ Month Before

 

Create a "move file" to track estimates.

receipts, and other important information.

Get copies of any legal and financial

records that you will need.

 

Compile an inventory of belongings

before they are packed in case you need to make a claim with your insurance company later. Take pictures of valuables and carry them with you or have them sent by certified mail. Check with the IRS for possible tax deductions – including moving expenses. Budget for moving expenses and start collecting estimates – including moving quotes.

 

RELOCATION SPECIFIC – Start compiling medical and dental records – including prescriptions and medical shot records. Ask your doctors if they can refer you to a care provider in your new city.Arrange for veterinarian records to be transferred. Don’t forget to include necessary medical and immunization records. Make arrangements for transporting pets.

 

CONDO/COOP SPECIFIC – Contact your insurance agent and ask if moving is covered. Arrange for new homeowners or personal property insurance.Contact health clubs or other organizations where you have memberships. Verify how to move, sell, or end your membership.Work your way through each room, taking inventory and deciding what to donate or throw away. Start planning a yard sale or contact local charities to find out about donating items. If you donate, be sure to get a receipt for income tax purposes.

 

Moving Tips: 3-4 Weeks Before

 

Begin collecting boxes and other packing supplies. Ask me about free or recycled boxes.Identify a "move date.” Ask your mover if they offer lower rates Tuesdays through Thursdays or at different times during the month.

 

CONDO/CO-OP SPECIFIC – Check with local authorities if there are restricted move in dates and ensure you will be complying with any parking restrictions.Plan for short-term or long-term storage if needed. File a change of address with the Postal Service and the IRS. Schedule disconnection of all utility services at your old home, and connection of them at your new one. Be sure to disconnect the day after you leave and connect the day before you arrive. For utilities at your new home, create a record of confirmation numbers for quick reference.Set a date to cancel or reroute magazine and newspaper subscriptions.

 

Remember to check for dry cleaning items. Also retrieve any items out on loan.Dispose of flammables, corrosives, and poisons. Prepare auto registration to be transferred.If you are moving into or out of an apartment, arrange to use the elevator on your move day.

 

Moving Tips: 1-2 Weeks Before

 

Notify your bank, creditors, and human resource department about your move. Confirm time and date of the move with your moving company. Notify family and friends of your new address and phone number. Finish packing and prepare an "essentials" box. Designate several moving boxes and items as "last load" items. Pack your suitcases and valuables separately. Drain water hoses. Empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving day.

 

Make childcare arrangements for moving day. Confirm that homeowners/renter’s insurance policies are still valid through the day of closing to ensure you’ll be covered in case of delays. Confirm street signage for moving van if local authorities require it. Inform neighbors.

 

Moving-Out Checklist

Assemble a folder of important information about the house for the new owner of your home. Set aside warranties, manuals, extra keys, and garage door openers.

 

IMPORTANT: Your home must be “broom clean” for new owners or they may ask for compensation for trash removal or cleaning service. Check stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave.Be familiar with the moving company’s packing and loading tips and any additional charges that may occur on moving day. Supervise movers during the move. Remember, you are ultimately responsible for how your goods are packed and loaded.Load your goods in a pre-designated order, saving "last load" items for the rear of your shipment. This might include your vacuum, cleaning supplies, or bed sheets.

 

Check every room, closet, and cabinet one last time before deciding everything is loaded. Verify that the destination address and your contact information is correct. Take note of utility meter readings. Leave a note with your new address in the house so that future residents can forward any of your mail. Keep a friend or family member informed of your plans and whereabouts in case of an emergency or unforeseen event.

 

Moving-In Checklist

 

You are likely to arrive at your new home ahead of your shipment. Take this time to look things over and ensure your utilities have been connected.Locate police, hospitals, and fire stations near your home.Verify that your mail is being delivered to your new address and pick up any mail being held.

 

After-the-Move Checklist

 

Keep all receipts and documentation in your move file and store the file in a safe place. You'll be glad to have everything in one place at tax time.Get a new driver's license and new tags for your automobile. Check possible changes in your automobile insurance.Register to vote.Contact the local paper for a new subscription.