Ready to Go: 30-Day Moving Checklist

The 30-Day Moving Prep Checklist

American Pacific Mortgage / April 26, 2016 at 1:30 PM

Now that you have done some heavy financial lifting, there’s more work ahead: moving into your new home. But it’s not just about moving. As you know, there’s a long to-do list. From notifying your bank and doctor’s office about your new address, to hiring movers and separating household items that you want to keep, sell or donate to charity. This next step can be overwhelming. That is why new homeowners should invest the time to prepare an action plan for a successful move.

Here’s a checklist to guide you over the next 30 days as you are preparing to move.

25-30 Days Out

Step 1

DoS

Research how much it’ll cost for movers if this is part of your action plan. Search for special deals on websites. Do not rely on an over-the-phone quote and get everything in writing. If you plan to hire movers, identifying items that will go with you on the move is a good first step before getting a quote.

Create a binder or online list of what you plan on doing and to track expenses and receipts associated with your move. A list is also great for inventory. You can use your phone’s “notes” app or select from a wide range of apps to keep you on task or organized.

Don'ts

Make a list of whom to call or email about your new address. This includes your doctor, insurances (car, life, etc.), creditors, your pet’s veterinarian, and of course, the U.S. Postal Service. Many, but not all, of your important contacts will allow you to change your new address online.

Use a shared Google Doc if you live with anyone to cross off contacts that you have called or emailed about your new address.

While the U.S. Postal Service will assist you with email forwarding, remember that it’s only temporary, so contacting your business contacts is very important. Also, note that a form is required for each person moving.

Step 2

Use social media, like Facebook, to send a message to family and friends about your new address. They may be curious about your new neighborhood and this gives them an opportunity to tell you about the amazing coffee spot up the street. This may also be a chance to recruit part of your moving team if you decide not to hire movers.

Walk around your home and begin tagging items that will stay or go. Find the nearest Goodwill or donation center drop-off locations (near your current or new place) on the Internet.

If you’re relying on multiple resources, be sure to create a master list that tracks or links back to these resources.

18-24 Days Out

Purchase or order your moving supplies. Don’t forget your small and large boxes, bubble wrap and specialty containers for your dishes.

Arrange for your major appliances to be serviced before you move. Be sure to check your current warranties for eligibility.

Take your vehicle in to be serviced as well, especially if you’re relocating to a different climate.

10-17 Days Out

Take a look at what’s inside the fridge because you cannot take perishables with you. Use food expiration apps to help you determine how long food will last before you must toss it. Remember to use it before you lose it.

Diagram where to place your furniture in your new home. This step will make things move along much faster when you’re ready to furnish your new house.

Call your cable and utility companies about your check-out date to cut off and start new service. Remember that cable companies tend to be extremely busy, so calling ahead will ensure that your favorite TV shows will be ready to go on Day 1.

Instead of turning in your equipment, consider transporting it to your new location in order to save time and a trip to your cable or satellite company. Check with your company first.

Begin to separate flammable or other dangerous liquids/materials into marked boxes so they can be safely moved.

3-9 Days Out

Reconfirm with those “do-gooder” friends and family who gave you their “scouts honor” that they would absolutely help you move when you asked them on Facebook. You might find they all “skipped town” and you will need a backup plan!

Start packing your suitcases.

Ask your employer for a day off for your scheduled move date.

Drain water from garden hoses and drain gasoline from lawn equipment. Clear other lawn equipment and move potted plants for easy access.

2 Days Out

Defrost your fridge and clean.

Double check your lists and inventory.

1 Day Out

Pack your cleaning supplies and toiletries that you may need first. Load them up last and unload them first.

Eat a good dinner.

Get good sleep.

For more homeownership tips, check out AP Mortgage Blog.

Sources: http://www.atlasvanlines.com/moving-checklist/pdf/MovingChecklist.pdf, http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/organizing/moving/moving-checklist