A successful move starts with planning and organizing. Following is a checklist of items to consider two weeks prior to moving.
Two Weeks Prior to Moving
* Arrange for help with your children and pets on your moving day.
* Confirm any travel reservations.
* Reserve an elevator if moving from an apartment.
* Have your appliances serviced for moving.
* Clean rugs and clothing and have them wrapped for moving.
* Plan ahead for special needs of infants.
* Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Make sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven’t been processed yet.
* Make copies of any important documents before mailing or hand carry them to your new address.
* Check with your insurance agent to ensure you'll be covered through your homeowner's or renter's policy during the move.
* Defrost the freezer and refrigerator. Place deodorizer inside to control odors.
* Give a close friend or relative your travel route and schedule so you may be reached if needed.
* Arrange for disposal of anything not sold at your moving sale.
* Take your car in for servicing in preparation for the move. Let the service technician know if you are moving to a different climate so your car will be properly prepared.
* Return any borrowed items, such as library books.
* Notify creditors of your move.
* Cancel any newspaper deliveries.
* Make sure you have an adequate supply of medications on hand and transfer prescriptions.
* Mail change-of-address cards to family and friends.
* Pick up dry cleaning, anything you may have loaned to friends, empty safe deposit boxes, etc.
* File your change of address form at the post office.
* Pack a travel bag with critical items, such as your checkbook, credit cards, phone numbers and contact information, toiletries, travel alarm clock, medications, first aid supplies, games and toys for the kids, etc.
One Day Prior to Moving
* Take pets to your veterinarian for immunizations, if necessary.
* Find new homes for plants that will not be moved.
* Have the movers pack you belongings (unless you’ve handled your own packing).
* Make sure you have cash or travelers checks for the trip.
* Call the moving company to confirm their arrival time.
* If moving yourself, dismantle beds and other large furniture.
On Moving Day
* Double check closets, drawers and shelves to make sure they are empty.
* Check rooms, attic, garage and yard to make sure nothing is left behind.
* Carry important documents, currency and jewelry yourself, or use registered mail.
* Note all utility meter readings.
* Read your bill of lading and inventory carefully (provided by the moving company) before signing. Keep paperwork in a safe place.
* Turn off the water heater and lower the thermostat.
* Get the name of the driver of the moving truck and give him your contact information. Review directions to the new house.
* Have the final payment for the movers and tip money.
Delivery Day
* Check your belongings carefully and note any damaged items on the inventory paperwork.
* Prepare to pay the driver before your possessions are unloaded via cash, a certified check, or travelers checks, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
* Supervise the unloading and unpacking.
After Arriving At New Home
* Renew your driver's license, auto registration and tags.
* Shop around for new insurance policies, especially auto coverage.
* Revise your will and other legal papers to avoid longer probate and higher legal fees.
* Locate the hospitals, police stations, veterinarian and fire stations near your home.
* Change the locks on all doors in your new home.
http://www.myguidesusa.com/movingandrelocation/moving/moving-checklists/two-weeks-prior-to-moving/
