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Moving Guides and Tips

Moving Checklist

You're trying to get organized and ready to move. Suddenly there's a lot more to it than meets the eye. This guide should get you through the crucial last month before you move.

Moving Checklist: One Month Prior

Start arranging for the move at least one month in advance. Plan a budget to determine the cost of your move. If you're going to hire a professional moving service, do some comparison shopping online. Find a few of the best quotes and get a written estimate. Make sure you understand the level of service and insurance details. Research the company's reputation before you hire. If you need to purchase additional insurance, do it now.

Avoid packing away important records and keep track with a separate file. Medical records, legal and financial documents, passports and other important documents should be placed in a weatherproof container, in a safe location. These valuables will be traveling with you during the move.

Schedule a transfer for your bank account. If you operate through a local credit union, you may need to open an account near your new destination. Notify utility companies that you are moving and arrange to have the service transferred or canceled. Discontinue gym memberships and newspaper subscriptions that will not be of use at your new home.

Submit a change of address form with the post office and arrange to have your mail forwarded to the new address. Have school records for your children sent to the new school. Ask your doctor for a referral to a trusted professional.

Reduce your load by getting rid of things you no longer need or use. You can host a garage sale, or try selling things online. Donate any thing you can't sell to the local charity organization. Also, look at your food storage situation and start thinning it out.

Begin packing items that you can do without for a few weeks. Purchase packing supplies from a packing supply company, or directly from the moving company. You'll need packing tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, markers and boxes. Pack one room at a time and label accurately.

The Week Before you Move

Make sure everything is in order regarding your new home. Confirm details for the moving service or moving truck reservation. If you have time, say goodbye to friends and neighbors with a little farewell gathering. Keep up with packing. The house should be filling up with boxes by now.

The Day Before You Move

Fill a box that will contain essential items. Pack the box with things like toiletries, maybe a favorite CD, some clothes and blankets, items that will help you get through the first couple of days during the move. This box should be loaded into the truck last.

Clean out the refrigerator. Have all appliances disconnected and ready to move. Pay off local bills and close accounts.

Moving Day

If you hired a moving service, be around to answer questions and communicate any specific. Be present while the movers go through the inventory and make sure all of your items are on the list. Once everything is loaded into the moving van, thoroughly double check the house to make sure nothing is forgotten. Review and sign the inventory check list and bill of lading. Exchange contact information with your driver and plan to meet him at the location on time.

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