The Definitive Moving Checklist and Planning Guide


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Definitive Moving Checklist & Planning Guide

The Definitive Moving Checklist and Planning Guide

Before you start moving, several things need to be kept in mind to complete all the necessary parts and ensure that all of your belongings are present at the new location once you reach. With this guide, you can understand the most important parts of moving your entire life and belongings to a new location and setting up your home once again.

Chapter 1 - 8 Weeks Before

Moving and changing is the most necessary part of a person's life. Moving can happen due to a new job, a new home in a completely different state, or a growing family.

Whatever might be the reason, having a well-thought-out planning checklist makes it possible for you to ensure that all of your belongings are packed and going with you to the new location or new country in a safe way.

Once a proper checklist for moving is ready, you need to start strategizing on the best ways and methods to make the entire move.

Research and Planning for Moving

How do you make a moving plan?

Before you start moving to a new place, there are some important things you need to remember. First, select a date on your calendar to load up the moving vehicle and move to your new home. Then, considering the moving date, start planning and organizing the packing and supplies needed for the move.

Next, get in touch with the utility companies and provide them with a date by which they can cut off connections like water and electricity to your home. If they provide services in the area you are moving to, ask them to switch over the existing utility connections to the new residence.

Sort and discard your possessions into boxes for the new residence, then hire a moving company or a moving van if possible to transport your boxes to the new place. Ensure that you have some food and water ready for the moving professionals if the process will take a long time.needed for the move.

Visit Your New Space/Home/Apartment for finalizing the area

What is the first thing to do when you move into a new apartment?

After moving into a new apartment, take notes and images and store them. Next, check the apartment thoroughly in case of minor repairs. Then create a list of those minor repairs or refurbishments that need to be done. Moving into a clean apartment can be quite satisfying, but some missed areas can be cleaned up.

Next, sort your boxes into the rooms they have been labeled. Finally, arrange necessary daily items like towels, toiletries, and beverages like coffee, tea, or other breakfast foods.

Meet your neighbors, avoid installing paintings or cleaning rooms after dark and unpack one room for yourself.

How do I check out a city before moving there?

One of the most important things to do before moving into a new city is to explore the city like a resident. Ask cab drivers or food establishment personnel about the best areas to eat, drink or explore. If the city you intend to move into has a historical background, get to know about it and visit these areas.

Use public transportation and get acquainted with the routes to and from your residence. Talk to older residents, become friends with them, and get a feel about living there on a long-term basis.

Reasonable Budget for Smooth Moving

How much should you budget to move out of state?

Set aside money for the move and see if you can hire professionals. Long-distance or cross-country moves usually require a higher budget than a local or short-distance move. If you are moving for a job, get in touch with HR.

They will usually provide some amount to cover the cost of moving to their location. DIY-style moving plans are usually helpful in understanding how to save money to move out.

How much does hiring movers cost?

The average cost of local moving is about $1400 and can range from $800 to $2150. Long-distance move prices can range from $2200 to $7700. In the case of out-of-state moves, it is better to ask if they provide services or get other moving companies to work on such jobs. Another very important thing to remember is that a representative from the moving company has to provide an in-person estimate so that there are no financial setbacks on the day of the move.

Research Institutes/Schools before moving

How do you research schools when moving?

When moving with kids, it is important to understand each school properly and decide based on the district and its reputation within the district. Since every child and parent has unique needs that need to be fulfilled. Therefore, with the help of the points given below, you can research the best-suited school for your child:

1. Active Parent Teacher Organisation

An active PTO consists of teachers, parents, and school staff that work together to ensure that the children can gain the most out of their education.

Also, the PTO engages parents to interact with each other through various activities and safety campaigns for the students.

Several PTOs create tutoring programs and workshops that make it easier for you to ensure that your child's schoolwork is done properly.

2. Afterschool programs

Check whether creative and performing arts, financial literacy, and outdoor education programs are available. With these, your child will learn new skills and gain more friends.

3. Safety and discipline policy

Take a look at the safety and security measures that the school has adopted. Aks the head of the institution about the rules regarding detention, expulsion, and bullying. Ensure that rules are not too harsh for the students.

4. Financial reports

Check the school's financial reports for audits, fund balance reports, budget summaries, yearly financial reports, and other related documents. If they are not available online, contact the district or ask for online links.

5. Observe Teacher-Student interactions

Take notes of the school environment, look at the classroom set-up and see if there are chances for proper teacher-student interactions. Finally, take time to see if the school's overall environment feels comfortable.

When all the above criteria are fulfilled, you can find it easier for your child to settle into the school. The most important part is that good teacher, and parent interactions, agreeable safety, discipline policies, and a good school climate will help ease the child.

The best choice is to do a proper school district search and choose the best school within the district that you will be moving into.

Make Questions List for Movers

What should I ask a relocation company?

Before you end up choosing a specific moving or relocation company, make sure to do a quality check online and ask questions regarding their policies and work. Some of the most important relocation questions that you need to ask are as follows:

1. Licensing and qualifications

To avoid mishaps or issues with the moving company, ask about their licenses. Any moving company that works in the USA has a license number provided by the Department of Transportation.

Local moving companies should also have a state-provided license number as each state has its own set of rules and regulations regarding moving companies. Therefore you should remember to ask about state licenses for their moving operations.

2. Experience with a specific type of move

There are several different types of moving services provided by moving companies. First, ask the moving company about the types of moving they have done previously. For example, if you are moving into an apartment in a high-rise building or a large home in the suburbs, you need to ask questions about their methods and steps for moving.

The moving experts from the company should also have enough experience in dealing with obstructions like small doorways, no elevators, or steps to access the building.

3. Liability and References

Irrespective of the location you are moving to, it is important to read every line of the moving contract. Professional movers will always ensure more than one specific type of liability coverage is provided in the moving contract. There are two forms of liability options:

a) Full Value Protection provides complete protection of all your belongings and makes sure that the mover provides you with compensation in case of lost or damaged possessions from the full cargo
b) Released Value Protection is an economical version of the full value protection plan as it is provided without any extra charge. With this protection plan, the mover accounts for only 60 cents per unit of weight per article.

Customers can also get insurance from a third-party insurance provider if none of the plans seem to be a good choice. Then also, the customer will have to check their homeowner's insurance policy to check if their possessions are protected.

Also, ask for proof of insurance from the moving company, and they will be able to provide it to you at a moment's notice. Therefore, it is better to select a moving company after you have asked the most important questions to ask when moving to a new city.

What questions should I ask long-distance movers?

Here are a few of the most important and necessary questions to ask moving companies before you settle on a long-distance moving company.

1. Licenses and insurances

Check the moving company's licenses, insurances, and registration with the US Department of Transportation on the USDOT website. If the moving company's name does not show in the list of registered names, avoid it and select a different moving company registered on the website.

Another way you can check the name of the moving company is by cross-checking them on the American Moving and Storage Association Promover Database website.

2. Reputation of the moving company

With one simple search on the internet, you can easily learn about the type of service the moving company has provided. Make sure to check the reviews from different sites like Google, Yelp, or FaceBook written by customers for long-distance moves.

Additionally, websites like Better Business Bureau can help you understand which moving company would provide you with all the services within your budget.

Give Notice to Your Landlord before moving

Providing ample time for the landlord to look for other tenants is necessary while moving out of your current residence, especially for a rented home. This subheading will teach about the rules and regulations that must be followed and remembered while moving out. In addition, this section will teach you how to get out of a lease before moving.

Do you have to notify the landlord of moving out?

Once you have decided to move out of your existing residence, the act of informing your landlord is more than just an act of courtesy. First, read the tenancy contract rules and make sure that the date of moving out is as close as possible to the end of your lease date.

If the lease date is later than the date of your move, get in touch with your landlord. They will be able to work out some ways that will make it easy for you to get out of the lease at an earlier date. Also, make sure to ask your landlord if any additional procedures need to be done so that you can get your security deposit.

How do I give my landlord notice for leaving the property?

If you are moving out of a rented apartment or home, you must inform your landlord around 45 to 30 days before the scheduled date. When creating the notice, the following points have to be mentioned:

  1. Date of notice submission
  2. Date when you are moving
  3. Information about the new home, including the landlord's name and address
  4. Declaration statement of leaving the home
  5. A statement regarding when you will be leaving home as per the lease agreement
  6. Provide current contact information as well as contact details in future
  7. Remember to provide an address for the refund deposit

With the help of a simple 30-day notice, you can ensure that the landlord can find a new tenant by the time you have fully packed up and moved out.

Now that you have understood what details need to be taken care of while preparing for the move eight weeks before the moving date. Let's go on to understanding and learning about all the important things to do seven weeks before the day of moving.

Chapter 2 - 7 Weeks Before

Make a List of Professional Movers

With the seventh week of the move coming in, some more important tasks need to be addressed after informing your landlord. Researched the area you will be moving into, ensured that all the amenities and facilities available are of the best quality, and ensured that the neighborhood is a great place to live in.

How do I choose a professional mover?

Before you pay a moving company the initial amount for moving, you need to do proper research on each moving company. There have been a lot of instances wherein the moving company ended up causing damages to the possessions of the person they were in contract with. Therefore, it is better to do in-depth research about each moving company before going into a moving contract. Here are a few points that can help you in choosing a professional mover:

1. Get referred through family or friends

Start your search for the best moving company by inquiring for referrals. Usually your friends and family will help you in this regard. They will be able to provide you with a list of the best moving companies in and around the city or locality in which you are living. Also, remember to select only three of the best moving companies in the area.

2. Create a list of estimates, in-person

Once you get in touch with all the best moving companies in your area, ask them to estimate moving all the possessions from the current residence to the new residence by doing an in-home survey of the residence in which you live. With this step, you can understand the average cost of moving and ask questions regarding additional services from the moving company. Also, make sure to ask about any other hidden fees that could be added to the final bill.

3. Enquire about packing services and insurance details

Due to people having busy schedules, it can be quite exhausting to pack all your belongings while working. So you can make inquiries about packing services that may or may not be provided by the moving company. If the moving company provides you with packing services, that will reduce costs.

Also, almost all moving companies provide insurance to help you with any damage to your belongings. While you are working on that, check if any scope of homeowner's policy can be provided to the articles in transit to your new residence.

4. Look up licenses and reviews

To ensure that your belongings and possessions are in safe hands, check the moving company's licenses on the US Department of Transport. Then, search the company and its reviews through various websites, enquire about their professional accreditation. Also, search for the moving company's website to check the address given on the website. It is important to check if the registered name is the same as the name provided on the website and the address.

Ask friends to help with moving

In this section, you will learn about the best ways to make sure to get family and friends involved in helping you pack for the new location.

How do you ask your friends to help you move?

Now that you have selected the apartment and a moving company after research, it is time to start the packing process. Packing up all of your belongings by yourself can be quite exhausting. Therefore getting family and friends to help reduces the pressure to quite an extent. But it is also important to see if they would help you out during the packing process. Here are some helpful steps that can make it easier for you to get help from your friends and family:

1. Give them preparation time

nform your friends or family at least a month before the actual date of the move. Within that time, people will be able to adjust their routines, and thus they will be able to help you move to the new location.

2. Provide guidelines on their tasks

A significant portion of work on the day of the move happens when you can make sure that each of your belongings is present in your new home. Having friends help you in the process of packing can be quite helpful. The following four aspects should be made clear for anyone ready to help you:

  • What needs to be done
  • Delegate tasks to each person
  • The order in which each belonging is to be placed in the moving vehicle
  • How the day ahead should keep moving as per schedule

3. Provide incentives and rewards for the help

When your friends show up to help you, it is important to provide them with some form of reward as a sign of gratitude. The following can be considered as some ways you can provide them with incentives:

  • Snacks and beverages during the move
  • A night out that is funded by you
  • Promising to help your friends during their move, or
  • A personalized thank you gift for all of them

4. Pack your things

Asking for help from friends does not mean you should expect your friends to pack your belongings. If your friends cannot help you on moving day, a packing party where you invite a few friends, get food and beverages ordered followed by packing materials and guide your friends on how each article should be packed. Due to this packing party, your friends will be able to help you while your packing is done and everyone has a great time.

Clean Your Belongings Before Storing

Now that you have packed all of your necessary belongings, some other belongings cannot be taken to the new home. Instead, these belongings need to be stored in a storage facility. So investing in a storage unit before moving can help properly store your belongings. We learn how to store extra and unnecessary possessions safely in the section.

How do you prepare things for storage?

Before storing all the extra belongings in a storage unit, you can follow the next few steps to ensure that all of them can be used whenever needed:

a. Research storage units their restrictions

Get in touch with a good storage facility and ask about the amenities they provide. Remember to go through the rules you need to follow regarding what you can store.

b. Sort out things that can be placed in storage

The more you sort, the lesser amount of money you will need to pay fees for storage. If the article to be stored is not useful or of sentimental value can be put away in the storage facility.

b. Make a list of items to put into storage

Before you start packing, make a list of all the belongings that need to be placed in storage. Then, create a copy of all the belongings in the storage unit, keep one with you and the other inside the storage unit.

d. Clean, label, and store everything

Clean and label everything properly before placing them in boxes. Clear boxes will help you in reaching them faster in the future. Also, make sure that the storage unit has proper temperature control, making it easy to reduce the chances of damage to books and clothes.

e. Disassemble furniture, and small appliances

Disassemble beds, dining tables, etc., for more storage space. In addition, small appliances should be repaired, cleaned, and placed into storage. Washing machine doors and fridge doors should be left slightly open. Also, store everything in an easy-to-reach manner.

Now that you know how to pack for a storage unit let's understand the process of reserving a storage unit in the next section.

Reserve a Storage Unit

How do I store my belongings for moving?

The process of preparing extra belongings for storage has been understood in the previous section. It is time now to answer the question, "how to pack a storage unit?"

When preparing to place everything into the storage facility, it should be placed to make it easy for you to get anything you need in a short time. Strategizing the location of each item inside the storage space will help you a lot. Place large and heavy items on the floor of the storage unit. Mattresses should not be laid flat as springs and cushions could be damaged due to heavy objects placed on top of it. Keep the most necessary belongings closer to the door of the storage unit.

How to Store Things in a Storage Unit

Now that you have sorted, packed, and labeled all the extra belongings for the storage unit. It is important to store all the boxes properly to reach everything easily and not damage any boxes. Place heavier things and durable items on the floor, followed by the lighter boxes on the top. Any breakables and fragile things should be placed in easy to reach areas. Valuable belongings should be placed in a safety locker. Ensure all the extra belongings are placed in easy to reach areas, and if there are things that need to be used quite regularly, it is best to store them closer to the unit door.

Place items towards the wall and ensure that a path is available for access at all times. The path will allow you to better access boxes stored at a higher level.

What is the best packing material for fragile items?

The best packing materials that can be used for fragile items are as follows:

1. Packing paper

Due to its great cushioning ability and affordability, packing paper can pack anything and protect fragile items from scratches or marks.

2. Styrofoam and packing peanuts

It is available in different shapes and sizes, making it a great place filler. Larger bricks of styrofoam and packing peanuts are more helpful in protecting fragile articles like plates and decorative items.

3. Bubble wrap

Bubble wrap is a great choice for mirrors, pictures, and other delicate items. But, fortunately, it is also a great choice for creating a padded space inside the box and easily filling up empty spaces.

4. Clothing

The thicker cloth material can help protect fragile items and reduce damage by filling empty spaces. Additionally, using thin fabrics in multiple layers can ensure minimal damage to things placed in the box.

Chapter 3 - 6 Weeks Before

Choose and Schedule the Mover

After all of your due research has been done, the next step that you need to take is to book movers and provide them with a schedule within which they would need to complete their packing and move all of your belongings into the moving vehicle. In this chapter of the guide, you will get to know about the steps you need to take six weeks before your date of moving to the new location. The steps will help you understand the inner workings of choosing and scheduling the moving company and packing your belongings to avoid damage.

When should you schedule a mover?

Before moving to a new place, you need to make sure that you have booked the moving company at the earliest. The best duration to schedule movers is about a month in advance. The reason for booking movers a month before your intended moving date is to reduce the chances of non-availability closer to the date of moving. However, if you delay the booking of your moving company, you might have to end up choosing a lower-rated company, which can cause a lot of problems during and after the moving process.

How Early Should You Book a Mover?

The date of booking a moving company depends on the year you are moving and the moving location. For most places, the peak moving season is Summer, with the peak months being May and August when students are moving out of their residential areas. Therefore it is the best option to book the move during an offseason, which will reduce the chances of delay in the arrival of your belongings to the new location.

Check out all moving supplies

Where can I get free boxes to pack for moving?

As soon as you have chosen the moving company, the next step is to search for packing material. There are a lot of places where you can find packing boxes and not have to pay a fee for them. Usually, moving companies are able to provide you with a lot of moving boxes that have been used previously for moving purposes. Also, the moving companies have surplus boxes to give when people are moving to a new location.

How to Pack Moving Boxes Like A Pro?

Now that you have got all the boxes in almost every size you need, it is time for you to prepare and pack all of your belongings one by one. Make sure to have all the packing material at hand so that you can pack all of your belongings without having to search for them. The materials that are commonly used in packing boxes are:

  • Scissors
  • Markers to label each box
  • Packing tape with a tape dispenser
  • Styrofoam peanuts, packing paper, and bubble wrap

The steps to packing each box are as follows:

1. Box assembly and cushioning

Since boxes do not come pre-folded, you will need to fold the box and then lay an even layer of packing peanuts or bubble wrap on the bottom of the box. Remember to double tape up the lower portion of the boxes so that the contents do not fall on the ground during transportation.

2. Close each box properly

Close the boxes after all the rooms have been cleared out and all belongings placed in boxes with proper names and numbers. Then tape up the boxes tightly so that there are no chances of any spilling or damage to the articles inside.

3. Label each box as per the room you have packed

While packing all your belongings from each room, it is necessary to mention a few of the box contents and the number they have been cleared out.

4. Load boxes as per weight

Once the first step has been completed, you can begin loading the boxes on top of one another. Again, it is important to ensure that the heaviest boxes are at the lowest, followed by the lighter weighing boxes. Also, it is better not to overload the boxes as it will be difficult for the moving professional to lift them into the moving vehicle.

The topic of how to pack a box for moving has been discussed above. Now it is time for you to learn how to store moving boxes. If you are thinking of storing your boxed-up belongings, you should remember the next few rules so that your belongings stay safe in a storage facility. Here are some of the ways that you can ensure that your belongings do not get damaged:

Here are some of the ways that you can ensure that your belongings do not get damaged:

1. High-quality cardboard

Good quality cardboard boxes will make it easy for you to ensure that your belongings are safe from external damage for a long time.

2. Smart stacking is the key

Place each box in your storage as per their weight, i.e., heaviest boxes closer to the storage unit floor, followed by lighter boxes on the top.

3. Rent a storage space

In case of insufficient storage space in your home, you can purchase a storage facility. Then, all the extra boxes can be placed in the storage till the need arises.

With the helpful tips on packing and storing a box, you can ensure that your belongings stay safe from any damage. The above tips are also a great way to ensure that each box is stacked in the right order for easy access.

Update your new address on the documents

You have packed all your belongings and told your landlord that you are moving out on the date mentioned. The next part of moving is when you update all the authorities regarding your move to the new location. Informing the authorities about moving to the new location will reduce the hassles of transferring existing connections and mail to the new location by yourself.

What do I need to do to update my address when I move?

In the beginning, you need to inform the post office about the change of address. Then, it will ensure that any incoming mail or courier is sent to the new address directly. If you do not have time to go to the post office, you can change your current address to the new one on the website of the post office closest to the new location.

Provide proof of the new address to the bank, your employer, tax agencies, social security offices. The list should also include utility services like gas and electric connections, phone lines, cable and internet service providers. Also, make sure to provide information to all the online shopping sites, clubs, and other financial agencies and all your family and friends about the new address.

If you are not aware of how to change the address, you can ask some of your friends or family who have moved previously and guide you through the process.

Contact your Moving Company about Valuation

How does valuation work when moving?

Get in touch with a representative from the moving company you have chosen. They will provide you with information regarding the valuation for moving household goods. There are two different types of moving valuation provided by all moving companies, which are as follows:

1. Released value protection is a basic coverage option in the moving company's contract.

2. Full value protection is comprehensive insurance added to the contract and can be claimed later in case of any damage to the goods being transported.

Full value protection can be helpful by repairing the damaged item, replacing the damaged items with an equal value, or paying you the full amount of the item that was damaged.

Notify Schools of Your Move

It is best to notify the school before you take your child from the school they are currently studying in. Therefore, it would be best to ensure that the school had prior notice about your move. In addition, informing the school about your impending move will help you ensure that all your child's academic and medical records are compiled and ready to be submitted to the new school. Also, it is in the interest of the child's well-being about the change of residence and school change.

How do I transfer my child from one school to another?

Transferring your child from one school to a new one can be quite an overwhelming experience, even if the family is looking forward to living in a new location. Therefore, before changing the school, it should be first taken up with the child and explained in an easy-to-understand method. By providing them with information regarding the new location and the schools that exist, the child will have an easier time moving from one school to another and also be able to feel excited about the process and also get a chance for new friends.

Chapter 4- 5 Weeks Before

Now that you have reached the five-week mark in your moving schedule, the next few goals you need to complete will be explained now. Although this part has a minimal number of things to do, these points are equally important as the previous tasks mentioned in the earlier chapters.

Donate your stuff

Irrespective of whether you are cutting down on your possessions or moving to a new location, donating your belongings will reduce the number of boxes you will need to pack and minimize the money you end up spending on relocation. So before you end up throwing out unnecessary and extra items from your home, you can think about donating them.

Where should I donate my stuff before moving?

Donating your belongings is a great way to make sure that there is reduced wastage. There are several places where you can give away your gently used possessions to others. Places like Goodwill, Dress for Success, Food Banks, and other organizations and places are some of the best places where you can give your gently used items like dresses, toys, unopened cans of food, and non-perishable items. Since there is a process on how to donate clothes to goodwill, it is better to first get in touch with them to get to know about the process.

How do I get rid of unwanted things when I move?

Getting rid of your unnecessary items while moving is a great way to reduce moving costs and the number of boxes you end up packing. The steps to get rid of things while moving are as follows:

Sort your belongings and categorize them

  • a. Indispensable items are the ones you cannot get rid of and need to use regularly.
  • b. Valuable items that are expensive, family-owned, and personal attachment to them.
  • c. Enjoyable items like books, collections, keepsakes, etc.
  • d. No longer needed items like old clothes, books, shoes, duplicate items, etc., that do not need any more use.
  • c. Useless damaged or broken items and cannot be used again.

Once you have sorted everything out, you can donate the no longer needed items and sell the remaining useless items. The money gained from the useless items will help reserve cash for an emergency.

The sorting mentioned above can be considered the best way to get rid of stuff.

Sell Gently-Used Items

How do you sell things when you are moving?

Moving to a new place can be quite stressful as it involves a lot of important things that need to be taken care of. Lesser the amount of furniture and other belongings you take, it will be easier to lower moving costs. The following are some of the best places to consider where to sell stuff:

  1. Yard, garage, or moving sales
  2. Estate sale
  3. Online classifieds and social media outlets

What is the best way to sell furniture when moving?

The best way to sell used furniture is to search for local second-hand shops or online sites that make it easy for you to sell all the extra furniture that might not fit at the new residence.

Dispose of Hazardous Items

How to Dispose of Hazardous Waste Before You Move?

To start, hazardous waste is any material that is flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic for humans or anyone in general. There are a lot of rules and regulations regarding the disposal of hazardous waste. Therefore, it is better first to do the following steps:

  1. Look up the laws in your area
  2. Read the labels of potentially hazardous items in your home
  3. Ask for a recycling kit
  4. Get a home pick up for hazardous and toxic materials in your home
  5. Search for a drop off location and get to know the timings
  6. Lastly, donate it to an organization or other place where it can be used.

What is the best way to manage hazardous waste?

The best way to handle the disposal of hazardous waste has been mentioned below:

  1. Recycling hazardous waste by reusing it
  2. Incineration of hazardous waste to reduce any contact with the environment
  3. Pre-treat hazardous materials so that they can be disposed of at landfill sites
  4. Handover any hazardous waste material per Ordinance on Movements of Waste and documented properly.

Chapter 5 – 4 Weeks Before

Following the week-wise schedule for your move, by now. It is time to start thinking of moving all of your heavier immovables to the new location. Here in this chapter, you will learn the logistics of moving heavier belongings like vehicles and getting to know when the movers will arrive.

Schedule Car Shipping Service (If move for long-distance)

How much does it cost to ship a car when moving?

The average car shipping cost from your location to the new location can range from as low as $630 for a few hundred miles in an open carrier to $1810 for long-distance in an enclosed truck.

How far ahead of time should you ship a car?

The consensus on scheduling the transport of your vehicle is around two weeks. Scheduling the move at a later date is unwarranted and can be quite problematic due to the changes in transportation and shipping prices. Plan a specific day ahead of time to ensure that your vehicle is ready for pickup. Also, ask the moving company about the car shipping cost.

Confirm Date & Time with Moving Company

How far in advance should you fix the date & time with movers?

The scheduling in every company is different. For example, some moving companies recommend a three-month notice. However, other companies can complete a last-minute move. Depending on the situation, long-distance moves will need to range from 12 weeks to two months. A last-minute move is possible within a one or two-day range. So get in touch with the moving company and schedule movers earliest for a good and well-prepared move.

Notify Friends & Family of Your Move

How to Tell Friends and Family That You're Moving?

Moving in itself is a big step in your life. However, many people need to know about this big stepping stone of your life. Here are some ways which will help you in informing your family and friends about the move:

  1. Give advance notice to your family around a month or earlier to help them process the news
  2. Inform everyone in a private setting to provide undivided attention to each family member
  3. Be considerate of your family's feelings and allow them to process the news
  4. Do not make a public announcement via social networking sites to prevent accidental damage to family relationships
  5. Have a going-away party and provide details of your new address and contact details
  6. Inform office colleagues at least two weeks before your departure to give them ample time for preparation
  7. Assure everyone that you will be staying in touch via different forms of communication

Moving away from friends can be quite emotionally charged and overwhelming, so you also need to take care of yourself and make sure that you can easily address the news of your move.

Choosing a robust handle in a hand truck is vital as it impacts maneuverability

Chapter 6 - 3 Weeks Before

You have informed family and friends, made preparations to move your car and other personal belongings to the new location. Additionally, the school, workplace, and the authorities have been informed about the new address and location change. The closer-to-home people and the ones who helped you keep the current home in the best condition should not be forgotten. Here's what you should do to ensure the helping staff is informed.

Notify Service Providers (housekeeping, landscaping, and pool maintenance)

When moving, who do I need to notify?

The people who you need to notify when you are moving are mentioned as follows:

  • a. Inform your employer to ensure that the HR department can send the financial documents to your new address
  • b. Provide the new address to the post office through the postal website or by visiting the closest post office
  • C. Notify the utility companies to cut the services to the current location and transfer services to the new residence
  • d. Tell banks about the address change, so your mail reaches you at the earliest
  • d. Ask your current health provider, especially doctor, to give you all of the medical records so that the new health providers are up to date with your health records

Arrange for Child Care on Moving Day

What do you do with your kids on a moving day?

Moving to a new location with children is a little stressful, but it will be quite easy for you to move to the new location if you can involve your kids in the process. However, if your kids are too young and unable to help, getting a babysitter for the day is a great way to minimize your child's stress levels. It will also ensure that your kids do not get hurt or mess up already packed boxes.

Transfer Utilities (include cable and internet, water and sewer, gas, electricity, satellite, security system, trash, and phone)

How do I transfer utilities when moving out?

Here's how you can transfer utilities while moving out of your current residence:

  1. Organize all of your utility services and their contact details
  2. Inform each utility service representative two weeks before your move
  3. Update your address and pay overdue bills before moving
  4. Get a final meter reading and home energy audit for better insulation and heating

When should you transfer utilities when moving?

Before you move out of your current home, you need to inform the utility providers around a week or two in advance so that all the connections are cut by the time you are ready to move out.

Chapter 7 - 2 Weeks Before

You have done all the necessary tasks for the old residence. Now it is time for you to look at the new residence and know it the best way possible. The first place to start is getting the blueprint of the home you have decided to stay in.

Take a Look at the New Home's Blueprint

How do I access blueprints for my house?

As a resident, you can find a copy of the blueprint of the house from mainly three sources:

  • a. The contractor
  • b. The country clerk
  • C. The original owners
  • d. The developer

Secure the Truck Parking permits for your move day

Does your moving truck need a parking permit?

Depending on the location you are moving to, there is less than ample space for the moving truck. It would help if you got a moving truck parking permit so that there are no issues on the day you are supposed to move your belongings into the new home.

Schedule the painter for the new home

How do I create a paint schedule? 

It is common when moving into a new home that there is a need for painting services. When hiring a painter, it is important to create a deadline for the painter to be completed as you will want the new home painted prior to move day. Ensure that the paint has time to dry so the movers will not be obstructed by wet paint on the surrounding walls.

Manage Your Financial Documents

How do I change the billing address on my debit card?

When you have moved to a new address or moved out of the old address, you should remember to change the address on your debit card. The process of changing the billing address for a debit card is easy since you can either visit the bank or change the address through online banking services provided on the bank's website.

Can I change my bank account address online?

Changing the address on your bank account is possible if you have created an online bank account to check your account balance from time to time. So you can log in to your bank's official website and change the existing address into the new address.

Chapter 8 - 1 Week Before

Inspect your Home with Landlord

Can a landlord come and inspect your house?

A landlord can inspect the house for any form of inspection. However, inspections are usually done to ensure the tenant's safety and that the home is well cared for. Also, a landlord cannot usually enter the home without the tenant's permission.

Pack Kitchenware & Essentials

How do you pack kitchen items when moving house?

Get clean new packing boxes, wrap each fragile utensil in packing paper, and bubble wrap in double. Remember to line the boxes with packing material properly. The above method is the best way on how to pack the kitchen for moving.

Change Locks in your new home and get copies of keys

How do I rekey my locks in my new house?

Purchasing a new set of locks for the door with a key is the best way to rekey your home. A pin and tumbler lock is quite easy to find and comes with tools that help install the new set of locks.

How much does it cost to get all locks the same key?

The average cost of getting the same keys for one lock can range anywhere from $160 to $200. Ask the locksmith rekeying your locks about the cost before you get them to start working on changing the locks.

Set Up trash Service for new home

How do I start a trash pickup service?

After you have moved into the new residence, it is better to place your trash near the road early in the morning and wait for the trash service to come and pick it up. The best trash service will always inform you about the timings of trash pick up on the first day of your move.

Chapter 9 - Day Before

The last few days have been quite hectic, and you have been making arrangements for all of your belongings to reach the new location. With one day left before you reach your new home, you will get to know the final few steps of the move that will involve your move to the new home.

Set Important Documents in Suitcase

How do you pack documents in your luggage?

When packing for the new location, you need to ensure that all your important documents are packed. The best way to pack all of your documents is to place them in a sealed plastic bag with minimal chance of damage due to weather changes or moisture.

Tell Neighbors About Your Move

How do you tell your neighbors you are moving?

Saying goodbye to your neighbors after living at one location for a long time can be difficult and emotional for you and your neighbors. So here are some helpful tips to make sure that you stay connected with your neighbors even after you have moved to the new location:

  1. Host a going away dinner either at home or at a restaurant
  2. Create a picnic or do a fun activity with neighbors
  3. Make a photo album that you can share with your neighbors
  4. Send an email containing thoughtful notes, and
  5. Make plans to meet as much as possible

Should you tell neighbors, you moving?

The following steps are a great way to ensure that you and your neighbors remain friends, even after moving away to the new location:

  1. Inform neighbors at a convenient time so they are prepared and can help you with possible things
  2. Circulate a notice to reduce inconvenience during the moving process
  3. Ensure access to vital areas is not blocked and get permission for the duration of loading
  4. Dispose of trash and clean the area around your home so the house don’t spread smell all across the society
  5. Exchange contact details before going to the new home

Get Cash for a Tip

Should you tip your professional movers?

The answer is yes. A typical tip for each crew member is $20 to $100 per mover per day. The following points should be kept in mind before you tip professional movers for the services:

  • a. Their organizational abilities
  • b. Their packing services and equipment and the duration for which they have been packing or moving
  • c. If the crew went the extra mile to ensure your move went smooth

All the above points will help you understand how much to tip movers after completing the move.

How do you thank a mover?

The best ways in which you can thank a mover other than tipping them are mentioned as below:

  1. Provide moving professionals with snacks and beverages depending on the season
  2. Offer them lunch or dinner as a way to thank them for a well-done moving job
  3. Mention the movers names in online reviews
  4. Ensure that their good job is noticed by their employers and leave positive reviews

Chapter 10 - Moving Day

Moving day has arrived, and surely you are looking forward to reaching your new home and starting living in it. Here is a quick run-down of everything you need to do while leaving the old residence.

Do a Final Sweep of the House

How clean should your house be when you move out?

The following ways will help you clean the home before you move out:

  • a. Remove all nails from the walls and patch them over with paint
  • b. Repaint the walls back to the original color if needed
  • c. Wipe all doors and windows to make them look clear and shiny
  • d. Clean the ceiling fans, mirrors, cabinets, and bathrooms
  • e. Remove trash, mop floors, and make appliances look new

However, if you do not have enough time, you can easily hire a cleaning service when moving out.

How do you clean a house at the end of a lease?

The following points are a helpful rental cleaning checklist that makes it easy for you to clean the home before leaving:

  1. Have all the cleaning supplies at hand in a bucket or supply holder
  2. Clean ceiling fans, baseboards and trim
  3. Clean out appliances including refrigerator, washer and dryer
  4. Decontaminate the home in case of pets
  5. Rent a carpet shampoo machine for carpet stains

Should I give my landlord a key?

Before moving out of the old residence, you must return the key to your landlord. By turning in the key to the landlord, they can change the locks and provide a safe living space for the new family.

How do I return a key at the end of the tenancy?

With the end of tenancy comes a few more responsibilities that need to be completed. Some of these are giving notice, cleaning the entire home fully, minor repairs, and taking photos to ensure the state of the home. Also, a landlord should have a checklist to make sure everything is in order.

Submit proof of cleaning the residence before leaving

A good practice to do is to take photos of each room in the home before leaving. Taking images of each room before and after the residence will help you in providing adequate proof of regular maintenance and upkeep. It will also be helpful in reducing the chances of loss in security deposit to the homeowner. Another useful method is to also take pictures and maintain records of any repair work done to make it easy for you and the owner to recognize everything.

With this helpful checklist for a well-done move to the new location, it will be possible for you to have a stress-free and easy move to the new location.

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