As you prepare for a relocation, it’s important to remember that the process will likely take longer than anticipated. The key to staying on schedule is to plan in advance and remain organized. Below is a helpful schedule from our friends at the New Jersey Warehousemen & Movers Association, which we’ve adapted for you.
Eight Weeks Before –
Select a moving company after receiving at least three quotes and verifying their references and reviews. – Create a detailed inventory of all items you intend to move. – Decide which items will be placed in the moving truck, car, or disposed of. – Consider the placement of furniture in your new home.
Six Weeks Before –
Clean out closets and organize them. – Host a yard sale to declutter. – Arrange for the transfer of academic records to your new school. – Coordinate the transfer of medical and dental records to your new healthcare provider.
Four Weeks Before –
Confirm your booking with the chosen moving company. – Schedule a visit from the movers two days before the move, if they will be packing your belongings. – Purchase boxes and packing tape if you plan to pack your items yourself. – Begin packing items that are not frequently used. – Fill out change-of-address forms at the post office or through your online accounts. – Inform friends, family, the bank, and your insurance agent of your new address. – Send an email to your magazine subscriptions to update your address. – Gather essential documents such as birth certificates, passports, and medical records. Do not pack these items in moving boxes.
Three Weeks Before –
Arrange for the utilities to be disconnected a few days after the move. – Set up utilities at your new home. – Start packing each room of your house. – Arrange for a babysitter on the day of the move if necessary. – Reserve the freight elevator in your building for the moving day.
Two Weeks Before –
Arrange for the transportation of plants and pets, as movers are not allowed to move them. – Dispose of items that are not allowed to be moved, such as gasoline and propane. – Continue packing. – Consider hiring a plumber or electrician to disconnect appliances you intend to move.
One Week Before –
Open your new bank accounts if you are relocating to a different location. – Ensure you have sufficient medication to last throughout the move. – Have your doctor issue a new prescription that can be filled after you have moved. – Disconnect any appliances you will be moving. – Drain fuel and oil from any power equipment you plan to move. – Complete the packing process. – Ensure all items not being moved are clearly marked or in a designated area. – Pack a bag of items you will need on your first night in your new home.
The Day Before –
Clear out your fridge. Make sure all the items you’re moving by yourself are all in one spot – either already in your vehicle, or in the bathtub or a corner of the room. Finish packing the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Keep the boxes open for a few items to be added on the day of the move. Get in touch with the moving company to double-check the arrival time for the following day and address any changes that might have come up (you’re not done packing, you require a few more boxes, there’s a bad weather forecast for the next day).
Moving Day Preparations
Ensure all scatter rugs and items that could cause the moving team to stumble over are taken out. Ensure your pets are safely tucked away away from the moving team’s path. Make certain all members of the moving team are informed about items they are not allowed to handle. Consider utilizing sticky notes for this. Keep an eye on the move. Greet every member of the team and clarify their responsibilities. There will be one leader for the move, whom you should contact with any questions or worries. Take down your bedding and either pack it in boxes or place it in clear garbage or recycling bags, making sure the moving team is aware of this. Make certain all items are loaded onto the truck. Inspect your closets and behind doors. Verify that the moving team has your new address and phone numbers for contact. Obtain the driver’s number in case you need to reach out to him. Double-check all your documents, particularly the Bill of Lading (which will indicate your choice for moving protection – “valuation” marked off). If you’re moving locally or opting for same-day delivery, schedule a 30-minute break between each move to allow you time to tidy up your current home and be ready for the new one.
Thank you to CAM for the moving tips