While it is sure to be a very exciting time in your life, moving from one home to another can also be extremely stressful. Whether you are moving across town or to a different state, it is important to stay organized and handle as many tasks as possible before the actual move in order to alleviate some of that stress. Inevitably, there are always last minute things that will come up that we have no control over, so follow the below checklist to keep control of the situation as best you can.
- Contact your energy provider. You will want to contact your existing and new energy provider as soon as you determine the date of your move. Make sure your existing services are taken out of your name, and arrange for your new services to be turned on. Depending on your provider, there are instances when you are able to have the names transferred from the previous owner’s name to your name without interruption of service. If this is not the case, you will want to be sure to schedule a technical visit to make sure you have power come moving day.
- Contact your internet and cable companies. This is something you will want to do at least two to three weeks prior to moving as internet and cable providers often schedule installation appointments that far in advance. Waiting until the last minute could cause unwanted delays and frustration.
- Notify post office. This is something else you will want to do as soon as you have your moving date. You can do this by physically going to the post office, or you can conveniently process the change of address online.
- Prepare of box of tools for easy packing/unpacking. This box should contain screwdrivers, tape, storage bags, etc that you will be using often during your move. Each time you dismantle a piece of furniture, keep the screws and hardware in a clear storage bag, label it and keep it in the box for safekeeping. Often times we think we know where we put screws for the bed frame we needed to take apart for moving, then spend time we do not have looking for them.
- Make spare keys for all locks. As soon as you are given the keys to your new home, take a moment to have extra keys made. If you are having the locks changed, make sure you have spares for all new locks. When running in an out during the move, the last thing you want is to lock yourself (or a family member) out of the house.
- Give the new house a thorough cleaning. You might find that the former owners cleaned the house before leaving, however now is the time to make sure the carpets have been steamed and bathrooms and kitchens are scrubbed down. If you are able, hire a professional cleaning service go through the house from top to bottom before you start moving your stuff in.
- Investigate and compare moving services. While you might initially plan to bypass the professional moving company and do it on your own, this might prove to be costly financially and physically. Many moving companies have different options to choose from in multiple price ranges that will fit your needs and your budget.
- Make repairs and tackle renovation projects. If time allows, repair any broken fixtures and paint your walls prior to moving in your furniture. Or if you are planning to renovate the kitchen, arrange to have that done before moving in your furniture and needing to use your appliances on a daily basis.
- Organize your belongings. Donate, sell or trash anything that you no longer use or is not going to your new home. This will not only save time on packing/unpacking, but will also save money on moving costs.
- Pack an essentials box. You are going to be busy moving and no doubt, you will have many things to worry about. By the end of the day, you will not want to scurry around looking for your (or your family’s) toothbrush, pajamas and medications (or maybe even your coffee maker). Spend a little bit of time setting aside the essentials you will need that first night and next morning to help ease into your new place without having to scrounge through your packed boxes.
