Getting Ready to Get Ready to Move

Preparing in advance is always a great way to reduce stress. When moving, it’s often recommended to start planning about two months before your moving day.

Here is a consolidated, step-by-step checklist to help you prepare for the big day.

Eight Weeks Before (The Foundation)

• Create a Digital Folder for moving-related documents, including quotes, receipts and photos of valuable items.
• Set a Budget for all moving expenses, including a contingency fund for unexpected costs.
• Research Moving Companies and get at least three estimates. Confirm the companies are licensed and insured. Look for professional certifications.
• Book Your Mover as soon as you have made your selection. Try to book off-peak dates for better pricing, if possible.
• Assess Your New Place for any moving requirements (e.g., service elevator, street access, parking).
• Separate Valuables that you will transport personally, such as fine art, jewelry and expensive, sensitive or sentimental items.
• File a Change of Address form with the Post Office (or plan to do so).
• Start Using Up Perishable Food from your pantry, cupboards and freezer.

Six Weeks Before (Declutter and Prepare)

• Declutter and Downsize your belongings. Note anything you haven’t used in the past year or that won’t fit in your new home.
  • Sort items into categories like give to charity, sell or throw away.
  • Post ads or plan a garage sale to sell unwanted items.
• Collect Packing Supplies like free or purchased boxes, tape and packing paper. Your mover can also supply these items for a fee, and most have used cartons from a previous move for a reduced price.
• Gather All Records (medical, dental, pet, academic) and arrange to transfer them to new providers.
• Talk to Family and Friends about the move and ask for help on moving day.

Four Weeks Before (Finalize Arrangements)

• Notify Utility Providers (power, water, gas, internet, phone) of your disconnect date at the old home and connection date at the new one. Schedule disconnection for the day after your move and connection for the day before or the day of your move.
• Notify Creditors, Banks and Subscriptions of your new address.
• Transfer/Update Insurance (renters/homeowners) to ensure your new home and belongings are covered. Consider buying moving insurance.
• Start Packing Non-Essentials like books, seasonal items, and storage-room contents.
• Label and Number Your Boxes on all sides and keep a corresponding inventory list of them.
• Arrange for a Babysitter or Pet Sitter for moving day.
• Take Photos of complex electronic setups (e.g., computer, TV wiring) for easy reconnection.

One–Two Weeks Before (The Countdown)

• Confirm all Bookings with your moving company and any helpers.
• Transfer Bank Accounts if you are moving long-distance.
• Prepare a Moving Day Essentials Box (or “First Night Box”). This should contain things you’ll need immediately, such as:
  • Toilet paper, paper towels and cleaning supplies
  • Basic tools, light bulbs and spare keys
  • Medications and toiletries
  • Snacks, water and phone chargers
  • Important documents.
• Finish All Packing except for the items you use daily. Household cleaners should be given away or thrown out, as they cannot be safely transported. (Unless you are moving locally and can transport them in your own vehicle)
• Clean Out your dry cleaning and library books or other borrowed items.
• Defrost and Clean your refrigerator and freezer two days before the move.
• Drain Fuel from any lawnmowers or other equipment.

Moving Day and After

• Conduct a Final Walk-Through of your old home after the movers are done.
• Change the Locks on your new home and make spare keys.
• Unpack Your Essentials Box immediately so everything is handy.
• Locate Essentials in your new home like the circuit breaker and main water shut-off valve.
• Update Your Driver’s License and vehicle registration.