Below is a moving checklist that was reprinted from an article in the REBAC Magazine which I receive monthly because I am an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR.) I really like this checklist because it includes time frames up to 8 weeks before your move so you can plan ahead.
Moving into your new home is a big job. The further you plan in advance, the smoother it will go. This list contains most of the big tasks you’ll need to do and suggested timeframes. Depending on your situation, you might be able to delete (or may need to add) some items.
8 WEEKS BEFORE
Call moving companies for estimates.
Remove and dispose of unnecessary possessions.
Start compiling an inventory of your possessions.
Get a floor plan (with room dimensions) of your new home to help you decide which furnishings you want to keep and which room they will go in.
Start a file of moving-related papers and receipts.
Locate schools, healthcare professionals and hospitals in your new location.
Arrange to transfer your children’s school records and family medical records.
6 WEEKS BEFORE
Secure off-site storage.
Choose a mover and sign contract.
Contact your homeowner’s insurance agent about coverage for moving and secure more.
Contact insurance companies (auto, homeowner’s, medical, and life) to arrange for coverage in your new home.
4 WEEKS BEFORE
Create a file of important papers, such as auto license, registration documents and title; any medical, dental and school records; birth certificates, wills, deeds, stock certificates, and other financial documents.
Notify the following of your change of address:
- Post office
- Banks
- Credit card companies
- Relatives and friends
- Insurance agent, lawyer, tax/financial advisor
- Magazine subscriptions
Notify utility companies of date to discontinue/transfer service and/or establish service at your new home. Also arrange for final readings and bills, including refunds on prepaid services.
- Electric
- Heating oil
- Internet service
- Natural gas
- Telephone
- Television
- Trash collection
- Water
Notify your state’s department of motor vehicles of your new address.
If moving from an apartment, arrange for refund of your security deposit.
Discontinue additional home services (housekeeper, gardener/lawn service, snow removal, and pool cleaner).
Start using up things you can’t move, such as perishables.
3 WEEKS BEFORE
Make travel plans.
Make arrangements with condo or homeowner’s association to reserve elevator usage time if moving into or out of a high rise building.
Arrange to close existing bank accounts and open new accounts in new area.
Arrange for child care on moving day.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Arrange special transport for your pets and plants.
Contact your moving company and review arrangements for your move.
1 WEEK BEFORE
Pack moving-essential boxes—important documents, travel clothes, personal items and prescription medications.
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Confirm all final arrangements with your mover and other service providers.
We have an amazing show planned for next week. It’s Memorial Day Weekend and we have some real estate topics for veterans. One of our call-in questions next week will win a beautiful coffee table book called “Warriors Remembered.” This book is written by a West Point graduate and combat veteran, Al Nahas, and covers Vietnam Veteran Memorials around the country.
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