Tips for Moving Into a New Place

Preparing to move into a new place is an exciting time; however, thoughts of boxes and more boxes can make it seem overwhelming. Moving into a new home begins a new chapter in life with great experiences ahead; when carefully thought out, it can be a piece of cake.

Packing and Moving Preparation

Moving day is approaching and you are ready for it to get here and be gone. To alleviate confusion when packing boxes, it is best to pack one room at a time and label the boxes accordingly. This will ensure that when you get to your new place and begin unloading, you can unload each box in the corresponding room. Unpacking boxes one room at a time will save you from initially unpacking unnecessary boxes that can wait until a later time.

Postal Service and Change of Address

Thirty days prior to moving, complete change-of-address cards and turn them in to the postal service. Ensure that you have also completed the change-of-address box on all of your bills at least within 30 days of your moving; that way your bills will meet you at your new place and you won't miss a beat. If you want to notify family, friends and colleagues that you are moving, purchase stationary that says "We've Moved" and send it out at least 30 days prior to your move.

Professional Mover or Do It Yourself

Regardless of the economy, the cost of moving is an important consideration. Before you decide to rent a truck and move yourself, price out what it would cost you if you and family members or friends boxed up your current residence and you hired professional movers to load your boxes and then take them to the new home. The price could be surprisingly cost effective.

Deliveries and Installations

This tip will save you time and money: Prior to the moving date, when you are setting up delivery of new furniture and appliances as well as installation of refrigerators or garage door openers, schedule them all on the same day within an hour or two of each other, if possible. This way you won't have to wait around for deliveries and installations throughout the entire first week in your new place.

Household Utilities

Contact the appropriate utility companies at least a week or two prior to moving into your new place to verify that the power can be turned on 24 hours prior to moving in. Specifically with regard to the telephone company, contact them at least a month in advance to find out if your current phone number can stay the same; what the latest date that the number can be transferred to the new residence is; and if the number has to be changed, what the installation charge is.

Resources

• Official Change of Address Form