Article Surfing Archive

You want to be as organized as possible when you move. Use this timeline as a reference to help make it as stress free as possible.

Two Months Before

' Start saving! Budget in advance for movers, insurance, supplies, child and pet care costs, and any other incidental costs. Remember that you will also have extra costs after you arrive- painting, landscaping, etc.

' Decide what you want to take, and what you want to leave. Plan your garage sale at least 45 days in advance.

' Check out your new neighborhood. Take care of the details to transfer your child's school records. Check out the local restaurants and take out places- you won't want to cook on moving day!

' Book the movers, van, or truck. Make your reservation at least 6 weeks in advance- especially if you are moving around the beginning of the month- when everyone else is doing the same thing.

One Month Before

' Arrange for any doctor, dentist, or veterinary transfer of records.

' Contact the phone company to get your new phone number.

' Contact any subscription magazines or mail order memberships you have, and inform them of your address change.

' Contact your internet provider to arrange for transfer of service.

' Visit the local post office and arrange to have your mail redirected.

' Start packing the non-essentials, like off season sports equipment, knick-knacks, etc.

One Week Before

' Call the locksmith to arrange to have the locks changed after you get possession of the house.

' Arrange, if possible, for your children to sleep over at a friend's house the evening before moving day. You might also want to board your pets for a few days around moving day.

The Day Before

' Stock up on snacks and bottled water to keep you going on moving day.

' Buy paper plates and cutlery to use for the next couple of days.

' Drop off the kids and the pets.

' Confirm your movers.

' Designate a box for last minute items, including bedding and pillows.

Moving Day

' Be there when the movers arrive, so you can give any special instructions, and point out any items that need special handling.

' Stay out of the way! A moving team has an efficient way of packing the truck, and a system in place.

' Count the boxes as they are loaded to be sure that everything gets on board.

' Do a final check of the house. Look in the cupboards, closets, and garage.

After The Move'.and after some sleep'.enjoy your new home!