Step 1: Get Organized
It all starts with planning and organizing. Like any big project, you need to plan the work and then work the plan.
Purchase a special notebook to record information about your move. Also print out our detailed Moving Checklist to help organize your move.
Purchase moving supplies: tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins, rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving clothes.
Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items.
Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses. Your costs may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your move.
Create a floor plan of the new house for reference during packing and on moving day. The CENTURY 21® Home Planner can help.
Make back-ups of computer files and determine how you will move this delicate equipment.
Step 2: Get In Touch
When you move there are many people you need to contact. Make sure to check with your local CENTURY 21® Real Estate Professional - he or she may be able to provide referrals through the CENTURY 21® Connections program.
Here is the essential call list:
- Hire a reputable mover or rent a moving truck. Be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau, get estimates, purchase moving insurance and get referrals or references. Click here to get a quote!
- Two weeks before moving day, contact your telephone, electric, gas, cable/satellite, refuse and water companies to set a specific date when service will be discontinued. Verify this date with your real estate professional as well.
- Contact utilities in your new town about service start dates, including Internet & long distance telephone services.
- Notify healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists, veterinarians) of your move and ask for referrals and record transfers.
- Register children for school and ask for school records to be transferred.
- Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when service should be terminated.
- Tell clubs, churches and organizations of your move. And if applicable, see if membership fees can be partially refunded.
- Advise the post office, publications and correspondents of change of address and date of move.
- Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements for new coverage.
- If you are moving to a new state, see if you will need new car insurance.
- Pick up items from your dry cleaners.
Step 3: Pack It Up
Putting your entire life into a few dozen boxes can be overwhelming. Try these tips for a smoother move:
- Keep track of all your valuables using our Home Inventory Worksheet to help organize all the items you are moving.
- Refer to our Packing Tips for the essentials on how to pack all the items in your home.
- Use suitcases to their full potential. Fill them with clothes or other items for the move.
- Create an "Open First" box with all the things you need upon arrival (medications,toiletries, linens, first aid kit, garbage bags, phone, light bulbs, flashlight, phone books, towels, food for pets, a leash, etc.) Make sure it is the last item packed so it will be easy to retrieve. Also make sure that tools are handy for reassembling beds and other items.
- Create special boxes for children to open upon first arrival. Include photos, stuffed animals, blanket, radio, CDs, etc. (Visit CENTURY 21® Smooth Moves for more tips on moving with children.)
- As you pack, put aside and label different house related keys you come across to give the new homeowners.
Step 4: Moving Day
It can be a hectic 24 hours, but there are some things you can do to make it easier.
- Have tools handy for breaking down beds and appliances.
- Move valuables (jewelry, legal documents, family photos & collections) yourself - don't send them with the moving company. Make sure you have a complete Home Inventory of all your possessions.
- If you are using a professional mover, check the inventory list and make sure you agree with the condition of items. Get a copy of the list for your records.
- Give every room a final once over. Don't forget to check the basement, yards, attic, garage and closets.
- Turn off the water heater and lower the thermostat.
- Get the name of the driver and give him your contact information. Also review directions to the new.
- Have the final payment for the movers and money for a tip (if satisfied with the job, about $20/mover is recommended.)
Step 5: Settle Into Your New Home
Now it is time to settle in! Don't forget to check in with your local CENTURY 21® Real Estate Professional - he or she may be able to provide useful local advice, and/or referrals through the CENTURY 21® Connections program.
In addition to unpacking, these "to-dos" will help you get up to speed.
- Contact utility companies and verify start dates.
- Check the condition of items on the movers' inventory list, as they are unloaded. Also check to see that all the items on your Home Inventory Worksheet have arrived safely.
- Resume delivery of newspapers and other publications.
- Let the local post office know that you have arrived.
- Create an emergency phone list for your new community and post on the refrigerator.
- Change batteries in smoke detectors and plan a fire escape route.
- Send a thank you note to neighbors, friends and family that assisted with the move.
- Consider changing the house locks.
- Register to vote.
- Mail "We've Moved" cards with your new address and telephone numbers to friends and family.
