Household Move Planning

Start planning your move several months ahead of time, at least.  There are lots of little details to attend to, and giving yourself plenty of time will ensure that you aren't rushing around at the last minute.

Begin by making a master checklist of what needs to be done when it comes to your move.  So that you stay on schedule, set a deadline for each task and check it off as you complete it.

If you are planning to hire a truck or use a professional moving service, book your reservation well in advance.  This is great time to get estimates for your move, as well as tell movers what you expect from them.

A move is a good time to get rid of all that useless stuff that's been hanging around.  No need to bring this stuff with you.  Instead, you can look forward to a fresh start!  Comb your house for unwanted items, and either throw them out, donate them to charity, or have a yard sale.

About two months before your move, collect boxes and begin packing the items you don't use every day.  A month before your move you can begin packing your larger items.  While it may seem this gives you a lot of time to pack, you'll need every second!  This is also a good time to notify your post office, utility companies, and credit card companies of your change of address.

If you plan to travel by car, be sure to have it thoroughly checked out before you leave.  The day before your move everything should be packed except for bedding and the enough clothing for you and your family during your trip.

To make the move into your new home go more smoothly, draw a floor plan and sketch in where you would like all of your furniture to go.  If your new home is a long car ride or plane trip away, this is a great way to fill the time!  When you arrive at your new home you'll already know where everything goes — you'll just have to put it there!

Moving Tips and Resources

• Moving Checklist
  
  Learn the basic steps of moving household goods from one house to another.  Find packing tips, a moving checklist, and advice on how to deal with the anxiety and stress of relocating.
  www.Century21.com
• American Moving and Storage Association
  
  Association of professional moving companies which move interstate household goods and may also provide intrastate and local moving services as well as storage in secure warehouses.  Website features a helpful selection of articles about household moving.
  www.Moving.org

Household Move Planning Guide