Here are some suggested checklists to make your move go as smoothly as possible.
Two Months Out
Call The Other Side Movers for an estimate and to schedule your move. (Summer weekends often book months in advance. Book early so you won’t be disappointed!)
Start to inventory and evaluate your belongings, including items in your attic, basement, storage shed, etc. Is there anything you can donate or sell?
Make arrangements with a third party if you need long term storage services.
Begin using items that you won’t be able to move such as cleaning products and frozen food.
Make a list of people to notify of your new address including friends, family, subscriptions, creditors, etc.
One Month Out
Notify utilities (cable, phone, electricity, etc.) of your service shutoff date.
Arrange for insurance in your new location.
Make travel arrangements for the day of your move. (Don’t make plane reservations for the actual day of your move. Give yourself 1-2 days cushion to handle any unexpected events.)
Purchase moving supplies including boxes available from The Other Side Movers.
Begin packing any items that you will not need immediately.
Have a garage sale for your inessential items – or donate items to charity (such as The Other Side Academy!)
Two Weeks Out
Make sure your car is in good working order if you plan to drive to your new location.
Settle any outstanding bills with local merchants.
Empty safety deposit boxes, pick up dry cleaning, return library books and DVD rentals.
Take pets to the vet for immunization and to retrieve pets’ health records.
A Few Days Out
Defrost your freezer and refrigerator.
Pack a box of personal items that you will need immediately upon arrival at your new home. Make sure to set this box aside!
Contact The Other Side Movers to confirm the arrival time of the moving professionals. Notify us of any last-minute details.
The Big Day!
Make sure that someone is at home to answer the moving professionals’ questions.
Pack special items for your children including snacks, toys and any favorite items. This can be a long and disorienting day for them.
Clear walkways and driveways.
Remove floor mats and doormats.
Remove low-hanging items such as plants or wind chimes.
Point out special items to your moving professionals immediately.
Read your bill of lading and inventory carefully before you sign them. Make sure you understand all the paperwork and keep it safe until the moving process is complete.
Make sure the driver has clear directions to your new residence.
Your driver or someone from our office may give you a delivery estimate. Understand that certain conditions (traffic, weather) can affect delivery times. Try to be flexible.
Take one last sweep of your house, checking all closets, the garage, attic, and basement.