Lydia's Moving Checklist

After your purchase offer is accepted and your loan is approved, it is time to plan your move. By preplanning your move and using a checklist, you will find that the numerous tasks involved go smoother. Here are some helpful suggestions.

Movers

One of the first things you need to do is decide on a mover. Always obtain a written cost estimate for each moving company you consider. Fees for local moves are usually determined on an hourly basis. After selecting a mover, arrange a specific moving date and use the follow check list to plan your schedule.

 

One Month before your move

q       Start to clean out things you won't bring. Lighten the load. Plan a yard sale. It's not free to ship, so if you don't need it, get rid of it!

q       Decide if you want to pack yourself or have professions pack for you.

q       Insurance. While shopping for a mover, check out insurance and call your homeowner's insurance agent to see if you are already covered. Check with your insurance agent to ensure you'll be covered during the move.

q       Start talking to young children the impending move. Preparing young children in advance gives the child plenty of time to prepare for the move.

q       Start Packing. Buy boxes, packing supplies (markers, etc.) and tape. Pack rarely used china or off-season clothes (if they still fit). When packing, keep in mind that it's most important to fill boxes to capacity. Under-filled boxes can get crushed and over-filled boxes may fall apart. Pick the right size box for the job--boxes should be between 25-35 lbs each.

q       Save all your bills. Remember to save your last bills--they have crucial information like account numbers and customer service telephone numbers that will help you change your utilities, credit cards, magazine subscriptions, etc.

q       Change magazine subscriptions to new address – sooner rather than later.

q       Get a copy of medical, dental and prescription records. If necessary, transfer them to a new physician in your new location.

q       Submit your change of address forms to post office.

q       Obtain documents for school transfers, if you have children.

q       Give your new address to friends and family.

q       Fill out an IRS change of address form.

q       Transfer memberships in churches, clubs and civic organizations.

q       Take inventory of your belongings before they're packed, in the event you need to file an insurance claim later. If possible, take pictures or video tape your belongings.

q       Make arrangements for transporting pets.

q       Start using up food items, so that there is less left to pack and possibly spoil.

One to Two Weeks before your move

q       Cancel your local newspaper or change the address.

q       Notify all financial accounts. Banks, credit cards, brokerages (401k, personal stocks/mutual funds, other investments) all need to know your new address. Make a list and call/write them.

q       Return rented movies, books to library, borrowed items, etc.

q       Call for utility shut-offs and new connections.

q       Dispose of things that won't be moved (including flammable materials).

q       Begin packing and labeling boxes in earnest.

q       Switch utility services to new address -electric, gas, water, telephone and cable companies.

q       Arrange for help on moving day.

q       Have appliances serviced for moving.

q       Clean rugs and clothing and have them wrapped for moving.

q       Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Before closing, be sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven't been processed.

q       Collect valuables from safe-deposit box. Make copies of any important documents before mailing or hand carry them to your new address.

q       Dismantle outdoor play equipment.

q       Review moving plans with your moving company, confirm date/time.

q       Develop a floor plan to show movers where you want your belongings placed.

q       Organize and pack an "essentials" box for arrival (toiletries, paper plates, small tool kit, etc.).

 

One to Two Days before your move

q       Disconnect major appliances. Refrigerator, washer and dryer, etc. should all be disconnected, defrosted, and dried out. Place deodorizer or charcoal inside to control odors.

q       Finish packing!

q       Carry valuables with you or in a personal suitcase. Passport, jewelry, cash, house deeds and other important documents should be set aside and stored in a safe place.

q       Leave your address in a conspicuous place for new occupants to forward anything to you.

q       For each member of your household, pack a couple of nights' worth of survival items (clothes, bedding, toilet paper). It could take you some time to UNPACK on the other end!

 

Moving Day

q       Relax! Since you've prepared so well, just let the movers load your well-packed boxes onto the truck!

q       Strip beds of linens.

q       Remember to eat.

q       Start early.

q       Check every room and storage area. Check back of drawers.

q       Turn off all lights and lock the doors.

q       Give the keys to the new owner or real estate agent.

q       There will be many more items to add to your personal list. Can you have your new phone ready to use when you arrive at your new home?

q       Double check closets, drawers, shelves, attic and garage to be sure they are empty.

 

After Arriving At New Home

q       Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags.

q       Shop around for new insurance policies, especially auto coverage.

q       Revise your will and other legal papers to avoid longer probate and higher legal fees.

q       Locate the hospitals, police station, veterinarian and fire station nearest your new home.

 Change of Address Checklist...

Utilities:

q       Cable

q       Electric

q       Gas

q       Telephone

q       Water

Insurance Companies:

q       Accident

q       Auto

q       Health

q       Home

q       Life

Professional Services:

q       Past employer (for w-2 forms)

q       Broker

q       Certified Public Accountant

q       Consultants

q       Dentist/dental records

q       Doctors/medical records

q       Pharmacy/prescriptions

q       Veterinarian

q       Lawyer

q       Lawn/maid service

Government Offices:

q       IRS / tax authorities

q       Voter’s registration

q       Motor vehicle registration

q       Library

q       Post Office

q       Professional Licensing Departments

 Business Accounts:

q       Banks

q       Cellular phone

q       Credit cards

q       Department stores

q       Drug store

q       Dry cleaner

q       Finance companies

q       Hair stylist

q       Grocery Store

q       Service stations

Clubs:

q       Social & Professional organizations

q       Book

q       Health & fitness

q       Music

Subscriptions:

q       Magazines

q       Newspapers

q       Professional

Miscellaneous:

q        

q       Business associates

q       Church

q       Friends

q       Relatives

q       Schools