Checklist for Moving

by Ronel Forbes

August 12, 2022

You undoubtedly concluded your most recent move with the words “Never again!” regardless of whether it was across the country or just down the block, but you don’t always have the luxury of doing so. You’ll undoubtedly come across cardboard boxes and packing tape again sooner or later.

Look no farther than this moving to-do list to make things go more smoothly this time around. It includes information on what has to get done as well as the best times to complete various tasks to reduce stress. Print it out, cross each thing off as you do it each week, and perhaps your next move will end with the two words “I’m home.”

Ideas for a moving to do list

1. Make an inventory of your home

An inventory of your home’s contents is useful in case anything is misplaced, taken, or damaged while you’re moving. As you package up valuable or difficult-to-replace objects, remember to snap pictures of them.

2. Get moving cost estimates

Both hiring a moving company and doing everything yourself have benefits and drawbacks. Ask your insurance agent if your valuables are insured while in transit no matter which option you pick. If you employ a moving company, get written quotes, references, and insurance verification. The pricing should include things like mileage and unique expenses.

You can also require additional insurance as a safety measure against loss.

3. Label and count boxes

Labeling your boxes while you pack your belongings will not only be helpful when you unpack, but it may also ensure that you don’t forget anything.

4. Review your spending plan

Reevaluate your spending plan as you prepare to move to account for potential cost-of-living changes in everything from housing to transportation. To get a realistic idea of your new budget and any lifestyle adjustments you might need to make, research average expenditures in your new area.

5. Do you require relocation insurance?

If a moving firm is involved, they will probably offer you insurance, though the details may differ. Your current house or auto insurance only provides minimal coverage if you are moving yourself. If relocating insurance is appropriate for you, ask a representative.

6. Your car’s insurance and registration should be updated

Whether or not you relocate to a new place, get in touch with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to update your address, license, and registration, as necessary. Please inform your insurance company of your new address as well.

Being aware that differing liability limitations and auto insurance regulations may apply if you move to a new state is important.

7. Update your voter registration and driver’s license

The prerequisites for obtaining a driver’s license vary by nation. Consult the LTO to see what steps you must take if you move to a different location. Even if you stay in the same area, you should promptly change your address with the LTO – in some jurisdictions, this should be done within 10 to 30 days of moving.

A voter registration change is required even for moves within the same state. To learn more about the requirements, contact the secretary of state or the DMV in your state.

8. Locate a bank

Find out if the branches of your financial institution, if it is a nationwide chain, are conveniently situated close to your new residence. If not, understand what paperwork is required to open accounts at new banks where you can open new checking and savings accounts.

9. Prior research into the new city and neighborhood is recommended

Spend some time locating nearby parks, supermarkets, public libraries, and other locations that interest you. The more familiar you are with your new city before you move, the easier it may be for you to adjust.

You can also get advice from the local police regarding safety and other matters related to your new surroundings.

The day of the Move

✔ Identify which boxes and products will be loaded last.

✔ Examine your inventory carefully and check off each item as it loads. Depending on their importance and necessity, you can decide which objects should be loaded first and which should come last.

✔ Boxes are used to pack all loose objects.

✔ Kitchen utensils, cutleries, ornamental goods should be appropriately packaged in the cardboard boxes.

✔ The walls are empty of all pictures.

✔ Make sure to take out all of the images before packing them in boxes or wrapping the larger ones for the moving truck.

✔ The top and sides of every box are labeled with the room in your new house where it will be placed.

✔ Make care to identify the boxes with both the category of items inside and the room in which you wish to put each item. Things are easier to unload, unpack, and position where you want them to be as a result.

✔ Your appliances are empty of anything.

✔ Make a second pass through each appliance to ensure that it is empty and free of any contents.

✔ Everything is taken off of the tops of furniture, cabinets, etc.

✔ Check once more to see that all of the cabinets and furniture are empty and that everything has been taken out of them.

✔ We have searched every room, closet, and cabinet for missing or lingering objects.

✔ Verify that you have not forgotten to take anything crucial by checking all cabinets and closets one more.

✔ Take apart the remaining bedroom furniture.

✔ To instruct movers on where to place your belongings, be present at your new location.

✔ Make sure to arrive at your new residence well in advance of the movers. You’ll assist them in positioning items properly in this method.

Conclusion

Moving can be difficult, but with a little forethought, an organized strategy, and expert moving services, it can be made easier. You can ease some moving-related stress by getting settled and organizing.

You must take action to ensure that everything is done in accordance with your wishes.