How to Move Over a Month-Long Period to a New Home

Moving can be a smooth transition with careful planning.

Moving to a new home can be exciting but stressful. Numerous arrangements need to be made to ensure a smooth transition from one house to another. If you have a month to move into your new home, this is enough time to be sure no responsibilities are left undone, but it is important to stay organized. In the weeks leading up to the big move, keep a checklist to stay on track.

Instructions

1. Create a moving budget. Between moving truck costs, deposits, packing supplies and even decorating your new home, the added costs of moving to a new home can get away from you. Take careful account of your expenses and set limits for your costs to stay on track.

2. Take inventory of everything you are bringing with you to the new home. Donate or discard any items that you do not plan to take with you. Have a yard sale to get rid of items you no longer plan to keep to lessen your moving burden and make some extra cash.

3. Reserve a moving truck or trailer. Four weeks before the move, research rates and options available in your area. To determine how large a storage truck you will need, review the amount of furniture and belongings you are taking with you. The storage company can typically suggest a size for your needs.

4. Start packing up items as early as a month before the moving day. Separate your belongings into categories by type, such as dishes, linens and electronics. Start by packing away the rarely used items and move on to the essentials as the day approaches.

5. Notify the post office of your address change. If you have any subscriptions, you may choose to notify them directly. Banks, family members and doctors should also be contacted and notified of your new address to ensure a seamless transition in your correspondence.

6. Call your utility providers and schedule service turnoffs in your current home. Plan carefully so you do not lose service during your move. Also, call the utility providers for your new home to have your services turned on before you are scheduled to move in.

References

• U-Pack Moving: Moving Checklist
• Movers Edge: The Ultimate Moving Checklist 2011