Planning is the Key to Moving Success

Nothing will make your move go smoother than detailed planning. This guide will help you prepare for one of the least favorite tasks in modern life (besides painting).. MOVING! We have provided you with a comprehensive moving checklist, providing a time-line to assist in prioritizing your moving tasks.

One to Three Weeks Before Moving

• Collect items from repairers, cleaners, lent to friends/relatives.
• Return library books, borrowed or rented items .
• Ensure you have sufficient prescription medication to cover the period of disruption.
• Clear attic / basement.
• If your mover is NOT performing, or making arrangements to dismantle waterbeds, satellite equipment, etc., or to remove light fittings or provide house cleaning services and dismantling of Satellite Equipment, be sure that you have.
• If moving Internationally dispose of house plants as these may not be included.
• Put to one side your "Move Day Survival Kit", all the things that you will need during the move process.

One Week Before Moving

• Finish packing and prepare an "essentials" box. Designate several boxes and items as "last load" items. Pack your suitcases and valuables separately.
• Drain gas and oil from your mower and other motors. Gas grills, kerosene heaters, etc. need to be emptied as well.
• Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving day.
• Prepare all appliances for loading.
• Fill any necessary prescriptions, medications needed for the next two weeks.
• If you're moving out of a building with elevators, arrange with management for use of elevators on move day.
• Use extra care in securing your load. Make sure the truck is locked and not parked in a vulnerable location.
• Prepare specific directions to your new home for your moving company (drivers), including your travel itinerary and emergency numbers.
• Ensure all clothing is securely fastened on the hanger and that they are all facing the same way (when you plan to transport it on hangers in a clothing carton).
• Make arrangements for your children to play at a friends or be cared for by others on your moving day.This helps prevent them from being upset or in danger on move day.
• Do NOT disconnect your telephone until the day after loading.

Your Moving Day

• Be sure to arrange to be present during the loading to ensure that when the removal crew arrives you escort them around the house confirming what is to be moved and any special instructions.
• Verify that everything has been packed and loaded for transportation; make a final check round with one of the crew, opening all cupboard doors and checking behind doors should avoid items being left behind.
• Verify and sign a packing inventory/list. You will be asked to check and sign it again at delivery.
• Before leaving, check to see that the property is secure and all services turned off.
• All windows and doors should be closed and locked. Water, gas and electricity supplies Should be switched off. Keys for the residence together with any documents relating to the property or equipment remaining at the house are left at the nominated point.

After Arriving At New Home

• Make sure you can be present at the unloading location to do all of this "in-reverse".
• Locate essential services near your home: hospitals, police stations, veterinarian, fire stations, etc.
• Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags.
• Shop around for new insurance policies, especially auto coverage.
• Revise your will and other legal papers to avoid longer probate and higher legal fees.
• Make sure you receive final bills for all prior services. It is a real problem to have an item end up on your credit report a year later due to a company's inability to send you their final bill.