- Get rid of anything you aren’t bringing with you
- Find out where to dispose of household chemicals like old paint
- Make a list of everything you’re bringing to your new home
- Find out the replacement value of all belongings, for insurance purposes
- Fill out a change of address form from USPS
- Fill out an IRS change of address form
- Get copies of your medical and dental records, if necessary
- Get copies of veterinary records, if necessary
- If you’re moving out of state, find out about auto licensing and insurance
- If you’re moving in-state, find out where and how to change your address on your driver’s license
- Notify your kids’ schools and have their records transferred to their new schools
- Return any cable equipment
- Make hotel and airline reservations if you need them
8 to 14 Days Before Your Move
- Return library books or any other borrowed items
- Collect all the items you may have loaned out
- Make arrangements to disconnect gas, electric and other utilities
- Make arrangements to connect utilities at your new place
- Arrange to have major appliances prepped for the move
2 to 7 Days Before Your Move
- Get rid of all flammables
- Figure out what you’re bringing with you in the car or plane
- Arrange for removal of “installed items” you’re bringing with you, like a TV antenna or shelves
- Pack a suitcase with the clothes and toiletries you’ll need the first day in your new home
- Pack a special box with other essentials you’ll need for the first few days. (Make sure to mark this box “Do Not Move”)
The Day Before Moving Day
- Take down curtains and curtain rods
- Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator. Make sure it has at least 24 hours to air dry
- Clean and air your stove
- Plan your breakfast. Paper plates service is fine. Eating something on the road is better
- Pack your personal belongings except your alarm clock
- Go to sleep early – you’ll be glad of it tomorrow
The Day of Move
- Collect all keys to locking items. Put them in a safe place
- Strip the beds but leave them intact. We will dismantle them
- Make sure you’re at home when the movers arrive, so you can sign an inventory
- Walk around with the crew chief while he does the inventory
- Make sure everything’s been readied for the move
- Keep your signed bill of lading and inventory in an easily accessible place
- Make sure the driver has the correct delivery address and phone number
- Confirm the expected delivery time with the driver
- Before you leave, do a final walkthrough of every room. Check all closets and cabinets