Preparing a “to do” list for your move

Without a doubt moving can be stressful and confusing. Sometimes it appears as if there is too much to do and remember. Preparing detailed “to do” lists can help you relieve some of the stress and prepare for your move in an efficient way. We recommend that you begin by creating two or three groups of tasks. For example: tasks having to do with utility companies, bank accounts, mail address change etc, tasks related to the actual move such as packing, selecting a moving company, unpacking at the destination etc. Once you have selected your groups (try not to create more than three or four lists) begin by writing down all of the activities one by one for example: requesting a date to disconnect the electricity, closing your local bank account etc. Once you have written all the tasks rearrange them in an order that selects the most important of the tasks first and the least important ones last. Once you are finished you have organized “to do” lists that help you remember everything as well as tell you in what order you should proceed. This will help relieve the stress related to the move and ensure you take care of all your moving assignments in an orderly fashion.

About 30 days before your moving date

• This is the time to choose your moving companies and make sure the provide you with a firm price in writing.
• Decide on a new banking institute in the new state you are moving to.
• Update important memberships such as credit cards and other financial services the might need you new address.
• Make an inventory list of all items being moved keep all receipt in a separate box to be taken with you when you move. It might help later Get all important medical files from your current doctors that may be used in the new place you are moving to. Many Doctors will need old medical files and records.
• Change your address in the post office and notify the IRS of the new location you are moving to.
• Choose your traveling arrangements. (drive your car, airfare, bus, or train)
• If you are self employed or have an occupation that requires licensing arrangement check the applicable laws and regulation in the new state.
• If you own pets make sure to check about pet relocation before you move to be ready and arrange for a pet mover before hand..
• It is a good idea to use food that is stored in your house now, No need to move large quantities of food items, it is waste of money .

About 14 days before your moving date

• Check if you are covered through your home owners insurance for the move.
• Check if there any outstanding debts or un cashed checks and close your bank account.
• Infants will need some better planning before the move. Make sure you have all necessities for your children with you until all items will be delivered to your new house.
• It is time to transfer all subscriptions to the new address.
• If you have made travel arrangements with any form of public transportation, confirm all details now.
• There are some appliances that will need some special preparation before the move. Check manuals to see if this will apply to your appliances.
• Moving is a great opportunity to have all rugs and drapes cleaned the will be returned to you nicely packed and ready to be moved.
• If you rent a safe deposit box make arrangements to cancel and check availability of deposit boxes in your new neighborhood.

One day before moving day

On Moving Day

• This is a time to contact your moving company with any changes related to your moving plans. (date changes, service changes, inventory change, and etc.)
• Review your packing plans and inform your moving company in any changes in packing services you might need.
• Contact a car shipping company and arrange your car transportation.
• Moving is a great time to give live plants to family and friends.
• If you are moving your pets check for any vaccination requirement and schedule an appointment with your vet.
• Jewelry and other valuables should be carried by you, make sure that they are placed in a safe place that contains all other items you plan with you.
• Return rented items such as books and DVD’s to the library or store.
• Plan to empty your safe deposit box and check for availability of a safe deposit box in your new home.
• Plan to transfer all prescription to a new pharmacy, If there are any prescription that you will need before seeing a doctor arrange to carry more with you.
• Check about disposal hazardous materials in your current home. Items such as paint and other building materials
• Store liquids in sealed containers and pack in plastic bags.
• Drain all power tools and leave no appliance or power tools with gasoline.
• Service your car if you plan to drive it to the new home.