A Guide to a Successful Relocation

Moving to a new location is a challenging task for most people. Prior planning and organization will ensure that your move is successful and stress-free. You can quickly resolve any problems that arise. It’s important to understand that there are several tasks that you must accomplish.

The first thing that you should do is create a checklist of all your tasks. The checklist should include the dates that each task must be completed. This guide will help you stay on track throughout the moving process. It will also give you a sense of accomplishment as you mark tasks off your list.

Inventory your household belongings. The volume and value of these items will determine how you will transport them to your new home. When you contact a moving company, ask the representative to arrange a home visit for a good faith estimate of the cost. The company will provide you with helpful tips on how to pack and handle other aspects of the move. The moving company is also a place where you can purchase packing supplies.

When you receive the quote, ensure that you understand the terms of the contract and the amount of insurance that the company offers. Contact your insurance company to determine if your policy covers property loss or damage that occurs during a move. You may need to purchase supplemental insurance.

Approximately one month before your actual moving date, notify offices that are responsible for your personal records and documents. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles and utility companies at your current location and your new home if it is in a different service area. Determine the process for switching your driver’s license. Identify dates and times to cancel your old services and set up your new connections.

Begin sorting through your household items early in the process. Identify the items that you no longer need or use. Hold a moving sale or donate these items to charity. The cost of your move is based on weight. You can save money by not shipping unwanted items. The first things that you should pack are items that you don’t use on a daily basis. This includes out-of-season clothes, extra bed linen, toys and holiday decorations.

As the moving day approaches, you should pack additional items. Label each box so that you know where to place it in your new home. You should pack and label an “open first” box that contains items that you will need as soon as you arrive at your new home. This may include cleaning supplies, the coffeemaker and towels as well as a limited amount of kitchenware. Set aside the items that you will personally transport during the move.

A week before moving day, pay your current bills and settle any open accounts that have a balance in your favor. Fill out and send in any forms necessary to transfer your accounts. If required, contact a new bank, insurance company and school in your new location.

On moving day, personally supervise the loading of your boxes onto the moving van. If you have children, hire a baby sitter. Have cold drinks on hand for your movers. Make the same arrangements for when the truck arrives at your new home. Walk around your old home to ensure that nothing is left behind.