Moving can be very stressful but you can make things much easier on yourself when you plan everything out before hand. Advanced planning relives a great deal of stress and helps make sure that the whole process will go as smooth as possible.
5 to 8 Weeks Prior To Moving – About two months out from your move, it is time to do some serious planning. You must investigate your moving options by calling different companies and getting estimates in writing. Make your choice and set an appointment for moving day. You should also ask your accountant about any tax deductions you might be entitled to because of your move and find out what paperwork you need to save. Now is the time to gather important documents. Get medical records of all family members and your pets so you will have them for your new health care providers. Make sure you have other important documents gathered, and replace ones that are lost. This includes social security cards, birth certificates, and immunization records.
Meet with your insurance agent and find out if you need to adjust any of your policies. Make a list of all of your possessions and figure out which valuables you want to be responsible for, which ones you will ship ahead, and which ones you will entrust to the movers. Begin gathering boxes. You can buy boxes or collect them from your weekly grocery store visits. Buy all packing supplies such as markers, tape, foam peanuts, and boxes so they will be handy at any time you get a free minute to pack up a few things. You can pack up seasonal items and other belongings that you will not need until after your move.
2-4 Weeks Before You Move – This is when you need to really start to get serious about preparing for your move. Be sure that you speak with the post office about changing your address as well as getting in touch with your current utility companies to ensure that they have the correct turn off date. Spend time deciding what you you are going to do with your live plants and perishable foods.
Go through your garage and arrange to dispose of dangerous chemicals and flammables that you do not want to move. Find out the details about registering your car in a new state if you are leaving the local area. Talk with your banking representative about closing your accounts or transferring them to a branch in your new city.
Moving Week – Confirm the appointment with your mover. Make sure they have the correct date and time and haven’t forgotten about you. Find out the requirements you must fulfill so they can move your belongings without incident. For example, have your deposit paid in advance and pack valuables that you are responsible for. Locate the written estimate in case any questions come up, you will have it on hand.
Send all of your friends and family an email and let them know of your new address. Once you have arrived at your new location, you should consider sending postal mail announcements stamped with your new return address. Defrost and drain your refrigerator. It is a good idea to clean your refrigerator well since it will be closed and warm inside for a while. Any smells will magnify and be difficult to get rid of.
Moving In – You will have a lot to do when you arrive at your new home. Don’t get overwhelmed; just take it a step at a time starting with the essentials. Make sure your utilities are on so you won’t be in the dark come nightfall. Only unpack what is necessary at first and tackle the job in small steps until it is completed.
Hook up your refrigerator and make sure it works properly before going out and buying food. You will want to be at your new home before the movers arrive. That way you can let them in and get the process underway. Instruct them on furniture and box placement in a way that will make it the easiest for you. Don’t deposit all of your boxes in the front room; let the movers haul them upstairs for you. You will have enough work to do as it is.
About the author: Jerry Dyess has been in the Texas Electricity business for the past 7 years. He has published many articles on Texas Electric prices.
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