Once you’ve massaged your wrist after signing dozens of pages in your home sale and mortgage documents, it’s finally time to prepare for your move!
The feat of getting all of your family’s things from one place to another may seem overwhelming now, but a little organization can help. We’ve put together a comprehensive move out checklist to help you make the most of your move without all the stress. Here’s what you need to know.
Six to Eight Weeks Before Moving Checklist
Create a moving binder to help you keep your paperwork in order. This binder should collect and organize your budget, estimates, receipts, contact information, furniture measurements, room inventories, packing and unpacking priorities, and more.
Set up a moving calendar, which you can keep in your binder or display on a wall in your home. This is where you’ll put essential info like inspection appointments or times to set up utilities.
Start researching home moving services by collecting quotes, checking customer reviews and the BBB, and setting down your budget. You should also reserve a storage unit if you want to ship some of your belongings in advance.
Do an inventory of each room. Donate or sell unwanted items, and decide which pieces of furniture will need special attention or transportation. Do small repairs on any areas of your home or furniture that need it.
Two to Four Weeks Before Moving Checklist
Make your travel arrangements, whether that means driving the moving truck or booking a rental.
Buy packing supplies, and track down as many free moving boxes as you can.
Contact your utility and cable providers to make sure everything is set up before you leave. You should also cancel any local memberships and redirect any subscriptions that go to your current home. Don’t forget to make any updates to your driver’s license and car insurance or registration as well!
Start packing in earnest using your room inventory.
One Week Before Moving Checklist
Do the last of your packing, and take the time to do a deep cleaning of your now empty rooms. You should also disassemble any larger furniture items for packing.
Prepare your family’s suitcase, and make sure everyone has the essential items they’ll need for a few days. Don’t forget the first-aid kit, phone chargers, and travel snacks.
Do a walk-through of your new home, and make sure you know where to find critical things like the breaker box or water shut-off valve.
Move Out Checklist
Help with the moving process, and be ready to answer any questions your movers ask. You’ll also need to sign their inventory list when they’re done. Have cash on hand for a tip.
Do one last walk-through of your home to check for any lingering items.
Post-Move Checklist
Time to unpack! Set up the beds, bathroom, and kitchen first—and don’t forget to do some grocery shopping to prevent you from getting hungry after all your hard work.
Change your locks and make spare keys as needed.
Finally, sit back and relax. You’ve earned it!
Make the Most of Your Move
Moving can seem like a stressful, anxiety-inducing experience if you aren’t organized. But don’t forget that you’re heading off to a new space and new opportunities! With a little forethought and this simple move out checklist, you can make the process much easier on yourself and your family.
If you’re looking for more tips for your new or current home, we’ve got you covered! Check out the other real estate insights in our other posts.
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