Moving Tips

Moving_tips
After searching for the perfect pad, you finally found a place to hang your hat. While the big home hunt may be over, the hard work is far from finished. Before you are able to relax in your new abode, there's sorting, packing, cleaning, documents to sign and so much more. Let's face it, moving is a lot of work –however, it doesn't have to be daunting. Follow these steps towards a smooth, organized move:
8 Weeks Out
  • Begin sorting through all your clothes, cupboards, drawers, nooks and crannies to find out what to keep, toss, recycle or donate.
  • Take inventory of what has made the final cut and determine their value for insurance purposes.
  • Call around to a few moving companies to compare rates and check their availability.
  • Make a reservation with your chosen moving company to avoid disappointment on moving day.
6 Weeks Out
  • Moving out of town? Now's the time to make travel arrangements, such as booking your hotels, flight, car rental, etc.
  • If you will be needing to change family doctors, consider asking your current physician for a recommendation of doctors in your new community. While you're at it, also ask for copies of your family's medical records to take with you.
  • For parents with children who will be switching schools, notify someone in the office at their current school about the move – have copies of their school records sent to their new school to aid with the enrollment process.
  • A move could also affect your insurance policies, which is why it's vital to get in touch with an agent to find out whether you'll need to make any adjustments to current plans.
4 Weeks Out
  • Alert the utility companies to have all services disconnected the day after you've moved.
  • To avoid moving into a cold, dark dwelling, make sure you also activate services for your new home a day or two in advance.
  • If you'll be needing storage in your new community, make arrangements with a local storage company.
  • Begin the process of packing up your house – start with items you're not likely to use in the coming weeks, such as photos, home decor, storage items, etc.
1 Week Out
  • Have the majority of your boxes packed and ready to go.
  • If you've hired a moving company, you'll also want to make sure you have your payment or deposit arranged, as well as a cash tip for movers set aside.
  • Confirm the booking with your moving company and provide them with a cell number, itinerary and directions to your new home to avoid any moving mishaps.
  • Cancel newspaper subscriptions and send notices to magazine subscriptions about your change of address.
  • Complete a change-of-address form at the post office to redirect your mail.
  • Notify friends, relatives and any necessary companies and organizations of your address change.
  • Let both your current and previous employers know of your new residence to ensure you receive any important documents like tax forms, paycheques, etc.
  • Have a rug you'll be moving? Make sure it's cleaned, rolled and ready to go.
  • Travellers should have a packed suitcases with necessary toiletries, clothing, jewelry and important documents.
  • If you're bringing any furry friends, obtain their health certificates from your vet for your travels.
Moving Day
  • Fill a 'first-night' box with necessary items you'll require in the first 24 hours of your moving, such as coffee cups, spoons, bowls, toilet paper, dish soap etc.
  • The moving company will want you to accompany them while they take inventory of all your moved possessions. If there are no issues or concerns, sign the bill of lading.
  • Always double check the address and phone number are correct – and store your copy in a safe place.
  • Take a final tour after the movers have left to make sure there is nothing left behind.
  • Lock all windows, turn of lights and close doors.
  • Enjoy your new home-sweet-home!