Moving Checklist
When it comes time to move your family from one location to another, there are so
many things to do that it's easy to forget a few things. Here is a checklist and timetable
you can follow to make sure that nothing important is left undone. You can download your own copy
by clicking
here.
30 to 15 Days Before Moving
- Sell or give away anything you won't move.
- Make a list of everything to be moved.
- Call various movers for estimates.
- Consider insurance on movables.
- Estimate the number of packing cartons that will be needed and purchase them.
- Gather and store dental and medical records.
- Pick up a “Change of Address Moving Kit” from the Post Office. .
- Send out change of address cards, to both the new and old neighborhood post offices.
- Contact children's schools and have any school transcripts forwarded to the new school.
- Close local-only store charge accounts, and arrange for all other bills to be forwarded.
- Make your personal travel plans by plotting your itinerary.
- Consider travel plans for your pets and make arrangements to transfer your pet's veterinary records to the new location.
- Immediately prior to the move, plan meals that will use perishable food you already have..
- For tax purposes, keep a record of all of your moving expenses, and keep receipts of any items you donate to charity.
- Arrange to disconnect your current utilities and to reconnect utilities at new location.
14 Days Before Moving
- Pack one room at a time and work in consistent blocks of time so your work will be gradual.
- Check the oil, water, battery, tires and all fluids in your car.
- Have your car tuned up if needed.
- Make sure you return any items you've borrowed from libraries and from friends or neighbors.
- Collect items you've loaned out to anyone in your current location.
- Arrange farewell visits.
- Check to see if your large appliances need to be specially prepared for moving.
- If your car is to be towed, arrange for the fitting of a tow bar; some cars need special equipment.
- Ask your bank to release your safe deposit box, and make arrangements to transfer your accounts and funds to a new bank.
7 Days Before Moving
- Pack suitcases and boxes not yet filled.
- Arrange for a babysitter on moving day if applicable.
- Get tranquilizers for your pet if it will accompany you in the car as needed.
- Dispose of, and do not transport any flammable items or liquids.
- Take down curtains, rods, shelves, and the TV antenna, unless your mover has been instructed to do so, or you have included those items in the sale of your home.
- Find out whether you can take your phone with you.
- Ask about credits for phones that may be applied at your new location.
- Set aside, and prepare any items to be taken in car during the move.
Day Before Moving
- Finish packing cosmetic items and clothes you'll wear on the trip.
- Empty and defrost the refrigerator and freezer and let them air dry for a day.
- Leave the refrigerator door ajar.
- Deodorize large appliances with baking soda or coffee.
- If you live on a busy thoroughfare, request police to place "No Parking" Signs in front of your house so the moving van won't disrupt traffic.
Moving Day
- Make a final check to guarantee your appliances are ready to be moved. .
- Give the driver detailed, and written directions to your new address. .
- After the moving van is packed make sure you have the appropriate payment ready before the van is unloaded at your new address. .
- Confirm the arrival date and time. .
- Pack your vacuum last so you can reach it easily to sweep new house. .
- Sign and save all copies of bills of lading. .
- Give the mover the address and telephone number of the place you can be reached if you are stopping enroute to your new destination..
- Before you leave, check every room, closet, and cabinet a final time..
- Dont forget any attic and basement storage rooms if you have them. .
- Check all locks on the doors and windows to secure the house. .