We know as well, if not better than most, how stressful moving can be.
With over 32 years of experience, we’ve seen it all, and have put together a handy checklist for you below to make your move as stress-free as it can possibly be.
Remember, preparation is key. It’s not difficult, but there is a process you can follow to ensure a smooth move.
Before you move
- Get estimate from moving companies and arrange method of payment.
- Sell, give away, discard unnecessary belongings.
- Notify post office and send out change of address cards to companies to inform of move.
- Get school records for transfer to new school.
- Check and clear tax assessments on your current property.
- Collect and send out all items to be cleaned and repaired.
- Return all items borrowed, collect all items loaned.
- Arrange for connection and shutting off all utilities.
- Dispose of flammable items.
- Defrost and clean refrigerator one day before move; clean stove
- Have meters read.
- Use up perishable food.
- Arrange to transport plants, pets, fish and perishables.
- Clean rugs and drapes.
- Arrange for work that has to be done at new home.
- Cancel cleaning person, pool maintenance, window cleaners, snow removal, etc.
- Assure you have adequate insurance for goods in transit.
Getting ready for the big day
- Get packing paper, pad for inventory, marking pens.
- Boxes or containers for packing, heavy twine or masking tape.
- Empty gasoline from lawnmowers, outboard motors, etc.
- Remove batteries from toys, and appliances.
- Mark cartons or boxes clearly as to contents and room to be put in.
- Set aside things you will carry in car in carton marked “Do Not Load”.
- Mark clearly cartons you want loaded last, unloaded first.
- Take a telephone book with you.
- Tie or tape mops, brooms, curtain rods in bundles.
- Point out and mark especially fragile or delicate items.
- Carry currency, jewelry and valuable papers yourself.
- Pack books, phonograph records on edge in small boxes.
- Large mirrors, glass table tops and valuable pictures should be crated.
- Carton weight should not exceed 60 pounds.
- All boxes should be tied securely.
- Be careful when using newspaper to pack because the ink rubs off.
- Do not pack cleaning products in the same box as food.
- Place heavy china items at bottom of box; all flat pieces should be placed on edge.
- Move clothes and drapes in wardrobe, supplied by movers.
- Do not roll mattresses or rugs; leave for mover using special cartons.
- Take down any fixtures fastened to wall.
On moving day
- Have children and pets elsewhere, if possible.
- Check off numbered boxes.
- Check each carton for damage or loss.
- Pay movers.
- Get appliances hooked up.
- Get utilities turned on, or meters read.
- Get kitchen and bedrooms setup first.
- Finally, pour yourself a glass of wine, or an ice cold beer. Celebrate! You’ve moved!