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MOVING COUNTDOWN CHECK-LIST:
Thorough planning is the key to any successful move. With so many
decisions to make and details to remember, the following check-list will
help you to stay organized. There are various articles written about the
process of moving, most of which agree that moves take 8 to 10 weeks
from start to finish. Therefore, we recommend that you start planning and
preparations as soon as possible. Print out the form below, and keep it
handy, so that you can refer to it as you go along.
6 Weeks Before the Move
Inventory all possessions now and decide what to move, sell, replace, or
donate to charity.
Take care of all change of address forms, mail to media, stores, and
organizations.
If you have children, make arrangements for record transfers between
schools and doctors on both ends of the move.
Itemize your moving related costs with the mover, including packing,
loading, special charges, insurance, etc.
4 Weeks Before the Move
Have a garage/yard sale to dispose of unneeded items, which can greatly
help your move.
If your professional mover is packing your goods, schedule packing days
1 to 2 days before the move date. If you are packing your own goods,
order adequate amounts of boxes, packing materials, and tape now.
Arrange for short or long term storage if needed.
3 Weeks Before the Move
Assemble a sufficient supply of packing materials and equipment.
Pack items you won't use immediately or that will go into storage, and
label them.
Contact utilities on both ends of the move, order termination or turn-on for
occupancy date.
Confirm all travel arrangements.
2 Weeks Before the Move
Prepare auto for trip to new home. Check tires, oil, and have car serviced
before the move.
Cancel/transfer newspaper and other delivery services
Confirm new bank accounts by phone and in writing.
If you are purchasing or moving appliances, schedule an appliance
service firm for moving day to prepare major appliances for the move. You
will also need to have them re-serviced at your delivery location before
you hook them back up and/or use them.
1 Week Before the Move
Gather important papers, records, valuables for protected shipment to
your new home or safe deposit box. Do NOT include such items in your
shipment.
Notify friends and neighbors of your new address, and phone number (if
possible).
Make plans for young children to be cared for on moving day. You will
need every minute to focus on your move.
Fill any necessary prescriptions or medications needed for the next
several weeks. Do not pack medications into your shipment.
Day Before the Move and MOVING DAY!
Defrost refrigerator and freezer. Give away all food in both units.
Plan simple meals for moving day (or take-out food) to avoid using the
refrigerator.
Pick up cash for your trip and for the mover's invoice (if required).
Pack items you need to take with you including valuables, financial
records, and personal papers.
Take your signed Bill of Lading and Inventory List with you, and keep them
where they can easily be reached at destination.
Give the movers a telephone number and address where you can be
reached in your new town.
