Moving is one of life’s more stressful experiences, especially if the move involves a long distance and you are leaving friends and family behind. But even if your move is just across town, there are a number of things you need to do, and it can seem overwhelming. Planning and organizing the process by creating a moving checklist will help make your move manageable. Your home moving checklist will ensure you cover all the bases as you transition your household from one place to another. Also start a “moving file” or binder to keep track of all the estimates, receipts, and other important documents involved in the move.

Moving Relocation Checklist

Six weeks to two months

• Determine what goes with you and what you plan to get rid of.
• Contact a number of moving companies and get estimates unless you plan to handle the move yourself. Decide if you want the moving company to do any of the packing. Even after you select the company, do not sign the estimate/order for service until you have a clear understanding of the agreement, including any policies regarding damage during the move.
• Start compiling all your medical and dental records if you are moving far enough away that you will need to find new doctors. If you have children in school, arrange for their records to be transferred to the new school district, if applicable.

One month

• Secure the supplies you need for the move – boxes, bubble wrap, tape, etc.
• Begin packing by starting with the items that you use most infrequently. Clearly label every box with its contents and indicate what room it will go into.
• Submit a change of address to the post office. You can even do this online at United States Postal Service. Make a list of everyone you want to notify about your move, including utilities, your bank and other companies you do business with.
• Start donating unwanted household items and begin using up frozen and other perishable foods and household cleaning items.

Two weeks before the move

• Contact your moving company and reconfirm arrangements. If you have made any changes – added or subtracted some items to the move – let your agent know.
• Confirm travel plans for your family, including pets, if you are moving to a new city. Decide what you want to take with in a suitcase so you’ll have clothes for a few days or a week if necessary.
• If you are not taking your plants, give them away.

A few days before the move

• Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator at least a day before your move.
• Double check details with your moving company including arrival time and other specifics

Moving day

• Supervise the move since it is your responsibility to make sure all your goods are loaded.
• Check every room to make sure everything is out. Don’t forget to go through closets, cabinets and storage lockets. Only after your final tour, check and sign the bill of lading/inventory list and keep a copy.