2 MONTHS BEFORE MOVING

Step 1: Research your desired destination

You might already know about the new place you will be calling home but in the event that you are unaware, make sure to do your homework! Knowing the city will help you hit the ground running when you first set foot in your new city. Make sure you have knowledge of the best opportunities that will meet your needs.

Step 2: Collect Records

Since you will be relocating to a new city, you will want to make sure you have all your records in place for a smooth transition. Copies of items like medical records, legal and financial documentation, school records or other information. Creating a moving file is a great way to ensure all your paperwork remains in one place. 

Step 3: Moving Quotes

Whether you are moving across the city or country, you want to make sure you do some research regarding the company that will be moving your precious items. Here are several moving companies that we recommend College Hunks Hauling Junk, West Michigan Moving Company, and Big Lake Movers.

1 MONTH BEFORE MOVING

Step 7: Schedule The Movers

After your thorough analysis of deciding which moving company to move your items, make sure you schedule the date and time when you will be moving. Scheduling in advance will help to eliminate issues with space being booked. 

Step 8: Utility Information

This would be a good time to get the utilities scheduled to be put in your name. Many of the utility companies offer the ability to schedule this type of switch online. Here are some utility companies to consider when making your move, keep in mind not all of these companies will apply to the home you will be living in.

Electric

Water

Sewer

Gas

Cable/Internet

Trash

6 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Step 4: Inventory Your Items

Somehow over time, we tend to collect items that we didn't even realize were accumulating. You never really realize how many items you have until you are getting ready to move and packing your belongings. Consider having a garage sale or donating your unused items to a local charity. Purging unneeded items will help you in the long run when moving!

Step 5: Can You Move With That?

When it comes to moving, you have to consider what you will be able to easily move or what needs to be discarded. Consider using items like cleaning supplies, aerosols, and frozen foods prior to moving. Check with your preferred moving company to discuss any additional items they will not ship to you. If you are moving across the state, this type of list may be different than cross country moving. If you have a pet, make sure you accommodate their moving needs too. Check out our page dedicated to relocation you pet  here!

Step 6: Begin Packing

Since you know you will be moving shortly, get ahead of the move by packing the items you know are not necessary for the coming weeks. Items like seasonal decor or clothing are some of the first items that can be packed. Make sure you purchase tape, markers for labeling boxes, and any packing peanuts or paper you will need to protect your items. 

2 WEEKS BEFORE MOVING

Step 9: Update Your Address

In order to receive your mail at your new address, make sure you update your current address to the new one. It usually takes a week or so for the new mail to start arriving so make sure you do this with plenty of time before the move. Updating can be done online here or in person at the local post office. 

Step 10: Notifying Other Businesses and Government Agencies

Make sure that you also notify other important businesses that you have changed your address so they can contact you at the appropriate place. Here is a list of suggested business to notify when you have changed your address. 

Auto Financing

Insurance Company

Bank

Credit Card Company

Magazine/ Newspaper Subscriptions

Monthly Memberships (ex: Netflix, book of the month. etc.)

Pharmacy

In addition, here is a list of government agencies that you should notify about your change of address. 

City/County Tax Assessor

Department of Motor Vehicles

Social Security Administration

State/Federal Tax Bureau (IRS)

Veterans Administration

1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING

Step 11: Review Moving Plans

To make sure all the pieces have been put in to place, review that plans that you have made for moving. By reviewing the plans, you will have the opportunity to consult the right people with questions. 

Step 12: Pack Your Essentials Box

Create a series of boxes that are filled with items you will need within the first few days of moving before you have time to unpack. Items like trash bags, paper products, scissors, cooking utensils, and other daily use items. Make sure to pack these boxes in the moving truck last so you will have easy access to them when you get to your new home. 

Also, keep in mind you should pack the same type of items in a bag that you would need if you are taking a trip somewhere. A few changes of clothes and toiletries are essential to the first few days of living in your new home before everything is unpacked. 

FINALLY MOVING DAY!

Step 13: Welcome Home!

By now you have done your final walk-through to make sure nothing is left behind and your items have been picked up by the moving company. Everything is settled and you are on your way to your new home! Now is the fun part of organizing and decorating your new home just the way you like it. Now things can begin in your new town like finding the right grocery store, pharmacy, and fun things to do around town.