Moving Check List

Two months ahead of moving day:

Search and Purge!
1. Go through your house and decide what you'd like to hold on to, what will need special packaging and what will take some extra insurance to cover.

2. Create a Binder!
Fill it with your children's school records for transfer, research you've done on moving companies, receipts, etc.

Six weeks ahead of moving day:

1. Order your boxes, take measurements of your new home if possible to see what doors your large furniture can fit through. Also start using your perishables and cleaning supplies because it is a waste to package those.

One month before moving day:

1. Choose your mover and begin packing. Start by labeling everything. Label each box with its contents and its designated room. Label essentials for things you will need right away.

2. Separate valuables such as jewelry in a safe box that you will transport yourself.

3. Go to the local post office and fill out a change of address form or online at usps.gov. 

4. Notify important parties such as banks, brokerage firms, your employers human resources, magazine and newspapers you've subscribed to, credit cards, insurance companies, and utilities companies.

5. Also forward your medical records and ask for referrals.

Two weeks before moving day:

1. Arrange to be off work on moving day by notifying the office a couple weeks ahead of time to avoid complications.

3.Clean out your safe deposit box if you'll be changing banks.

4. Reconfirm the arrangements with the movers.

One week before moving day:

1. Refill your prescriptions

2. Finish packing your suitcases

A few days before moving day:

1. If your taking your fridge, start defrosting it

2. Double check that the moving staff has clear directions to your new house and your contact information

3. Plan for your movers payment. 10% to 15% of the total fee is a good tip and if the moving was especially difficult it would be kind to give $100 to each mover. Also, refreshments are always a plus.

Moving Day:

1. Verify that the moving truck that comes to your house is from the moving company you hired. The USDOT number painted on the side of the truck should match the estimate you were given. Scams are not uncommon.

2. Take inventory. Before the movers take off, make sure to sign the bill of lading/inventory and keep a copy.

3. Enjoy your new home.