A new city, new job, new friends, new neighborhood, and a new home – Your adventure is about to begin! Selling your current home and moving can be an exciting and wonderful event, but there are many things to do before you reach your new destination. And of course, moving can be a stressful experience. However, reducing your stress level is possible with forethought, organization and planning. You should begin preparing for your move as soon as possible. Those who plan ahead, are organized, and have a positive attitude adjust much more quickly to their new lifestyle and usually become active members of their community. This moving checklist will help you prepare for your relocating adventure.

Moving Checklist:

 As soon as you know you will be moving:

• Begin planning your move to eliminate as much stress as possible.
• Contact a Realtor® for selling your current property and buying a new home.
• Reserve a moving truck. They are often booked in advance.
• Find out what expenses your employer will cover.  

Three weeks prior to moving:

• Arrange to have appliances, utilities, phone, Internet and cable TV disconnected.
• Coordinate the final readings for gas, water, telephone, etc. Check on deposits. Set up connections at your new home.
• Review details with your mover: insurance coverage, packing and unpacking labor, arrival day, directions, shipping papers, time and method of expected payment.

 Two weeks prior to moving:

• Handle bills, stocks, investments, and banking transfers. Arrange for check cashing in the new city.
• Make special arrangements for transporting pets. Update pet tags and licenses with new address information.
• Clean cabinets.
• Plan remaining meals so you can pack what you don’t need.

 One week prior to moving:

• Discontinue delivery services, such as the newspaper.
• Clean out your safety deposit box and place all valuables and documents together.
• Either carry them with you or send them ahead by registered, insured mail.
• Reconfirm your moving and delivery dates with your mover.

 Two days prior to moving:

• Defrost and dry refrigerators and freezers.
• Arrange for traveler’s checks for trip expenses and payment to the mover upon delivery.
• Reconcile and close checking account and withdraw savings.
• Conclude any financial matters relating to the lease or sale of your home.
• Set aside items you will need immediately upon arrival – a few dishes, towels, soap, bedding, light bulbs, flashlights, and toilet paper. Clearly mark the boxes.
• Leave forwarding address to new owner or tenant.

Moving day:

• Pay close attention to the mover’s paperwork. You will need to sign it upon completion of loading.
• Supervise the movers to make sure your instructions are understood.
• Double-check your residence for forgotten items before leaving.
• For emergency reasons, alert a close friend or relative of the route and schedule you will travel.
• Leave keys and garage door transmitters for new owners.