subject: Moving Checklist: The Ultimate Moving Checklist, 2009 Edition [print this page] A moving checklist can be an amazing tool for removing stress from the moving process, and can keep you on track throughout your move. Here is the ultimate moving checklist, based on the best moving tips, articles and handbooks.
The moving checklist starts at 4 weeks prior to your moving day:
4 Weeks Prior to Move: Organizing
* Set the date.
* Arrange for utility transfers. This includes:
__ Cable/satellite television
__ Cell phone service
__ Electricity
__ Gas
__ Internet/broadband
__ Local phone service
__ Long distance phone service
__ Propane
__ Recycling pick-up
__ Sewer
__ Security system
__ Trash pick-up
__ Water
NOTE: It's a good idea to schedule utility "turn on dates" at least one day prior to the move date and "turn off dates" at least one day after the move to allow for emergencies or issues that may arise.
* File change of address.
* Make sure you have enough cash on hand to pay movers in full.
* Start a "change of address log" of all the people you need to notify. Be sure to include:
__ Clothing at dry cleaners, tailors or in storage
__ Clothing lent to friends
__ Items at repair shops
__ Tools lent to neighbors or friends
* Open bank accounts near your new address.
* Create one "Open Me First" box for each room.
You'll need to access certain packed items almost immediately after you arrive, and they need to be packed together in special boxes (one per room) and marked with either bright red markers or special stickers so you can spot them easily. The specific rooms are:
Kitchen:
__ aluminum foil
__ break-proof or disposable flatware, cups, and plates
* Start eating up perishable food from freezer and refrigerator.
* Consider holding a "Packing Party."
* Hold a yard sale.
1 Week Prior to Moving Day
* Confirm start time, current home address and future home address with movers.
* Recruit friends for "moving day madness."
* Make arrangements for child and/or pet sitting.
1 Day Prior to Moving Day
* Make sure everyone's cell phone is fully charged.
* Have everyone pack one or two suitcases or a knapsack (no more).
Even if you're only moving across the street, having a suitcase with the following, taken with you instead of on the moving truck if possible, will make things easier once you move in:
__ Eyeglasses
__ Favorite toy for the kids
__ Prescriptions
__ Something to read
__ Three days' worth of changes of clothes
__ Toothbrush and toothpaste (if not in "Open Me First" box)
Moving Day
* Start early.
* Take all garbage out of the house.
* Make sure drivers have your cell phone number and you have theirs, along with their names.
* Be available for movers' questions.
* Perform final checks before leaving current home.
Here are some final items to verify before shutting the door for the last time:
*Air conditioning, fans, and heat turned off?
*Water shut off, including to hoses?
*Light switches turned off?
*Keys and garage door openers for current home turned in or left on the kitchen counter?
*Anything left in refrigerator, freezer, stove, drawer under stove, in closets, in bathroom, under porch, in garage, in attic, in crawlway?
*Did you pack your hoses and sprinklers?
Following this checklist should assure you that most of your tasks are accomplished on-time. Please feel free to add other items and remove any that don't apply to your moving situation.
