… Moving Tips and Checklist | Return to sellers

30 Days before you move

  • Get rid of anything you aren't bringing with you.
  • Find out where to dispose of household chemicals like old paint.
  • Make a list of everything you're bringing to your new home.
  • Find out the replacement value of all belongings, for insurance purposes.
  • Fill out a change of address form. Notify friends, family and others of your new address.
  • Fill out an IRS change of address form.
  • Get copies of your medical and dental records, if necessary.
  • Get copies of veterinary records, if necessary.
  • If you're moving out of state, find out about auto licensing and insurance.
  • If you're moving in-state, find out where and how to change your address on your driver's license.
  • Notify your kids' schools and have their records transferred to their new schools.
  • Return any cable equipment.
  • Make hotel and airline reservations if you need them.
8 to 14 Days before you move
  • Return any borrowed items.
  • Collect all the items you may have loaned out.
  • Make arrangements to disconnect gas, electric and other utilities.
  • Make arrangements to connect utilities at your new place.
  • Arrange to have major appliances prepped for the move.
Couple of Days before you move
  • Get rid of all flammables.
  • Figure out what you're bringing with you in the car or plane.
  • Arrange for removal of "installed items" you're bringing with you, like a TV antenna or shelves.
  • Pack a suitcase with the clothes and toiletries you'll need the first day in your new home.
  • Pack a special box with other essentials you'll need for the first few days. (Make sure to mark this box "Do Not Move").
The Day before Moving Day
  • Take down curtains.
  • Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator. Make sure it has at least 24 hours to air dry.
  • Clean and air your stove.
  • Pack your personal belongings except your alarm clock.
Moving Day
  • Collect all keys to locking items. Put them in a safe place.
  • Make sure you're at home when the movers arrive, so you can sign an inventory.
  • Walk around with the crew chief while he does the inventory.
  • Make sure everything is ready for the move.
  • Keep your signed bill of lading and inventory in an easily accessible place.
  • Make sure the driver has the correct delivery address and phone number.
  • Confirm the expected delivery time with the driver.
  • Before you leave, do a final walk through of every room.
  • Check all closets and cabinets.