Moving Countdown

If you’re preparing for a move, you’re in good company. This year 43 million Americans will relocate, or over 18 million households. Though you may be a seasoned mover, the task of moving is never easy and rates as one of the greatest sources of stress in a person’s life.

Planning, organization, and preparation can help the job go more smoothly. Below is an eight-week countdown that may prove helpful as you approach the big event

Eight Weeks
Gather information about different moving companies by using the internet or making phone calls. Get estimates in writing. Make a decision as to whether you will use a mover or rental truck service. Things to consider will be cost, packing, loading, delivery, and claims.

Six Weeks
Obtain school, medical, legal, and tax records (new providers will want to have them) and ask for referrals for professionals in the community you’re moving to.

Four Weeks
* Send change of address cards to magazines.
* Obtain change of address kit from the post office.
* Clean out closets and other storage for a garage sale.
* Start packing seldom-used items and
xxstack these boxes in an out-of-the-way place.
* Schedule any work to be done on your new home:
xxpainting, carpet, roofing, etc.
* Arrange transport of vehicles or pets, if needed.
* Reserve rental equipment, if moving yourself.
* Change your property, auto, and medical insurance policies.

Three Weeks
* Make travel arrangements and reservations.
* Check with the Department of Agriculture if you are moving xxout of state to see whether you are allowed to bring in xxhouseplants.
* Have a garage sale

Two Weeks
* Arrange for disconnection and changeover of utilities.
* Confirm with the moving company and/or storage company.
* Continue packing.
* Cut back on buying perishable food.
* Make a list of those items that you will move personally.
* Close unneeded accounts, such as your club membership.

One Week
* Return library books.
* Pick up dry cleaning and laundry.
* Reserve a baby sitter, if needed, for moving day.
* Drain gas and oil from power equipment.
* Give away plants not being moved.

Two Days
* Clean and defrost the refrigerator and freezer.
* Close bank accounts, if needed.
* Finish packing.
* Pack a “survival box” of things that you will need at the xxnew house:  flashlight, light bulbs, bandages, soap, paper xxtowels, toilet paper, some linens and towels, two pans, xxcoffee, coffee pot, can opener, plastic cutlery, paper plates, xxcups, napkins, dish detergent, trash bag, scissors, utility xxknife, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, telephone. Load this box xxlast or keep it in your car,

Day Before
* Pick up rental van, if using.
* Tie closed any sofa beds or trundle beds.

Moving Day
* Confirm delivery address, directions, and delivery date with xxmovers.
* Be present to supervise.
* Read moving contract before signing and keep it with you xxuntil your things are delivered.
* Designate one person to stay with the rental truck to be in xxcharge of loading. Load heaviest items first. Distribute xxweight evenly.
* Thoroughly clean your house before leaving.
* Check thermostat.
* Lock doors and make sure appliances are turned off.