Travelling

Time to Move? Use This Checklist (So You Don’t Miss a Thing)

There’s no way around it: moving is a big undertaking. Even if you are just moving somewhere nearby and with a lot of help, there’s no shortcut to packing up everything you own to move to a new location. 

It can be easy to get overwhelmed or even frustrated with the process. You can make things easier on yourself by following a process that includes a list. 

Use this checklist to ensure that you don’t forget anything so your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Make a Plan

The first thing on any good moving checklist is making a plan. Having a plan in place will eliminate a great deal of uncertainty and give you a solid reference point throughout the process. A plan should include:

  • When you are moving
  • An estimate of how long it will take
  • When to start packing
  • Who is helping you move
  • When you are getting moving materials

Writing these milestones down will ensure that nothing falls through the cracks and that you are ready for the big day. 

Book a Moving Service

If you are in a position to hire a moving service, it can make the process of moving much easier. Because they are professionals with the experience of completing many prior moves, moving service is the most efficient way to get all of your things from your old space to your new one. 

If you plan to book a moving service, you will want to do so in advance. The last thing you want is to plan your move, counting on service, only to find that it is unavailable because you waited too long. Moving services can book weeks in advance, so reserve your spot as soon as you have confirmed the moving date.

Along with booking a moving service, you should ensure that whoever you hire is a trusted and reputable company. If you are moving across state lines, you can check the Department of Transportation’s Registered Mover Database.

Plan for Your New Space

Sometimes people can get so caught up in packing and preparing for the move that they forget to plan for their new space. Before you move, ensure all of your existing furniture will fit into your new space. 

You should also look at closets to determine whether you need to donate some clothing before moving. Other things like artwork and outdoor decor should also be inspected to ensure they have a place once you arrive at your new home.

Planning for the new space is especially important for older adults transitioning to a senior living community. Oftentimes assisted living quarters are designed to be more efficient and cozy, so there may be less space for excess furniture and large items.

Make Time for Sorting

Moving is a great time to take inventory of your belongings and get rid of things you no longer need. The best way to accomplish sorting is to give yourself enough time to do it gradually. 

A few weeks or even months before the move, start to identify items that you can discard or donate. Downsizing before a move can make things easier as you pack up and unpack at your new place.

Change Your Utilities

With so much effort required to move belongings, some people forget about the smaller details like changing over bills. Most utility companies let you schedule a disconnect date for your old home and a start date for your new home. 

Don’t let changing your utilities fall through the cracks, or you may end up with an extra bill at the end of the month.


Infographic provided by Careful Movers, a professional packing and moving company

 

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

Moving can certainly be stressful, but it is also an exciting time with much to look forward to. Change is sometimes hard, but moving to a new space presents opportunities to start fresh, make new memories, and enjoy your next chapter in life.

A simple checklist can make the process of moving manageable, and you’ll be moved in before you know it.

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