Moving Checklist – What to Do Before You Move

How do you feel about moving to a new home? Are you among the jumpy, excited ones or the anxious, overwhelmed kind? Whichever it is for you, there’s no denying it: moving homes can be a stressful experience. From sorting through your clutter and labeling everything to dealing with realtor paperwork and finding movers, there’s a lot that goes into it.

But it’s not an unachievable task. Many have done it before you, and they’ve been successful. Do you want to know why? Because they had a plan and some fail-proof tips to help them move their valuables without hitting a snag.

So, if you’re looking for help with pre-moving tasks, here are a few pointers.

Declutter and Downsize Your Stuff

Look around. What do you see? That’s years of hoarding, dear friends. From clothes to books, boxes of memories to kitchenware, does it all have to go with you? No. That’s why sorting your stuff and getting rid of the things you won’t need is a great way to reduce your moving stress. Plus, the less you transport, the lower your moving costs will be.

But let us warn you; decluttering isn’t an overnight chore. It can take days, weeks, and even months. So, plan it out and mark off some time in your calendar for this task.

Hire the Best Movers in Your Area

Regardless of how big or small your move is, hiring the right moving company is a must. They know the ins and outs of the business, so you can be confident that your valuables will reach home unharmed. But besides safety, professional movers also offer packing and unpacking services, saving you a lot of time.

Homeowners in the following regions must consider Coleman Movers for their excellent reputation and advanced technology satellite tracking:

• US West Region
• US Midwest Region
• US South Region
• US Mid-Atlantic Region
• US Pacific Region

Nonetheless, research and look for companies with good reviews and recommendations from previous clients.

Change Your Address

You probably receive mail daily through the post. So, you must inform the world of your new location. Change your address with banks, credit card companies, doctor’s offices, and other places where important papers and documents are involved. You can also forward your mail to a new address, so you don’t miss anything important during the move.

What’s more, notify friends and family members of your new address. You don’t want to worry them or get out of touch. What if you need help during the transition period?

Transfer Utilities

You don’t want to be stuck in the dark and cold on your first day at home. But if you forget to transfer your utilities, that’s precisely what may happen. So, make sure to contact the utility companies near your new house and have their services transferred from one location to another. It could be electricity, gas, water, Internet service provider, etc.

Don’t forget to check the rates and compare them with other companies to get the best deal. You can also take recommendations from your new neighbors! It can be an excellent conversation starter.

Look for Storage Solutions If Needed

When relocating, you often need more space than what your new home can offer. Maybe you want to keep your old furniture for future use, but there’s no room for it in the new place. Or perhaps the closing dates don’t match, and you need a safe spot to store your belongings.

If these scenarios apply to you, research storage solutions in your area. You must look for companies that offer amenities like climate control, on-site security, and free moving truck rentals. But remember, check the duration of your lease and ask for a special rate if you’re signing up for a long-term agreement.

Make Arrangements for Your Kids

Kids aren’t too fond of leaving their friends and school behind, so moving can be hard for them. Prepare them for the transition by showing them pictures of your new home or helping them find new friends in the neighborhood. This way, they won’t worry as much and will adjust more easily.

Moreover, you must arrange for them to stay at a close relative’s house or get someone to babysit them when the big day comes. That will give you some time to focus on the move. But please ensure you send them prepared. Give them snacks, drinks, and a phone, so they can reach you in an emergency. Pack enough clothes and essential toiletries too.

Take Safety Precautions

Before you move, check for potential hazards or faulty appliances that may put your safety at risk. Get a professional inspection done to ensure your home is up to code and has no hidden dangers. Inspect the structure, wiring, and any other systems that could cause an accident if not taken care of. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Some must-check items include smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, locks, and switchboards. These can put you at risk of fire or electrocution, so it’s wise to get them fixed before moving.

You must also look for water damage, leaks, and mold growth. If you find something, it’s safest to get it fixed by a professional before you move in.

Do a Walkthrough of Your Old Home

Of course, you can’t hand over your keys to the landlord until you do a walkthrough of your old home. Do it with your landlord and document everything that needs repairs or replacement. Capture photos of any issues before handing over the keys. It’ll save you a lot of money and headache in the future.

Also, check that all your items are out of the house and there’s no forgotten furniture or jewelry.

If you’re selling the property, arrange for a professional cleaning and make sure all repairs have been done. You want to give the best impression and ensure you get the price for your home when you put it on the market.

Final Thoughts

Moving houses can be tiring and stressful. But you can minimize the hassle by planning and taking all the necessary precautions. Ensure you notify your banks, family members, and friends of the move. Look for storage solutions if needed. Take safety precautions before moving in. And don’t forget to do a walkthrough of your old home. These steps will help you make a smooth transition.

Also, make sure you don’t burn out during the move. Take a break whenever needed and get help from friends and family if required.