How to Make a Moving Check List

Before you start packing for a move, make a checklist so nothing is left undone or left behind. Learn how to make a moving check list that has a timeline for what you need to do to make sure you have everything you done by the time you've settled into your new home.

Instructions

Getting Ready

1. Eight weeks before you move: Make a folder where you can keep receipts and other documents related to the move. Start getting estimates for a moving company (or moving trucks if you will move yourself). Research the area you are moving to, and plan out where everything will go in the new home.

2. Seven weeks before you move: Start gathering dental and medical records. Ask for copies of school records to be sent to your child's (children's) new school(s) on a specific date. Gather any veterinary records you will need. Cancel any memberships you have to organizations and clubs (if you cannot remain a member in your new locale). Contact your insurance agent to discuss insurance needs, and gather your insurance documents.

3. Six weeks before you move: Make a list of your valuables. Make a list of all family, friends and associates you want to notify about when you are moving. Go to every room in your house and make a list of what to keep and what to discard. Start using up things that you cannot/don't want to transport such as foods and cleaning supplies.

4. Five weeks before you move: Start gathering/buying boxes for packing. Many moving-truck rental agencies sell boxes and other packing materials. Pack things you do not use all the time. Pinpoint a specific move date (if you have not already). If you need storage before moving into your new home, make these arrangements.

5. Four weeks before you move: Schedule the utilities to be shut off on the day you leave. Reserve a moving company's services or a moving truck. File a change of address with the postal service. Cancel any newspaper subscriptions. If you have a pet, plan how it will travel. Have a garage sale to get rid of things you won't bring to your new home.

6. Three weeks before you move: Dispose of any hazardous wastes. Find out how to transfer your vehicle registration and return library books and anything else you have borrowed.

7. Two weeks before you move: Contact creditors and banks about your move and file your new address. Confirm any travel arrangements and the moving transportation. Plan meals for the last days so you can keep the refrigerator bare for cleaning and moving.

8. One week before you move: Finish packing and labeling boxes. Finish last-minute packing and fill any prescriptions you will need before you find a new pharmacy. Defrost the refrigerator and unhook hoses for stoves, dishwashers, washers and dryers.

Moving Day

1. Leave a note on the door for the new tenants so they can forward any mail not caught by the postal service.

2. Check all rooms, closets, basement, attic and garage to make sure nothing is left behind. Also check around the property outside.

3. If you are using a moving service, give them all the details about the new destination so your belongings will arrive at the correct residence and on time.

4. Write down your meter readings before you leave. Compare these readings with the final bills.

References

• Moving Out Checklist