Moving Checklist

To avoid surprises, get coordinated in advance: Use this checklist to monitor your progress. As I’ve mentioned before, I can’t do anything without my lists…and moving can make my head spin. Just keep telling yourself that this is the fun part, you’re finally moving into your new home!

1. Make agreements with sellers (ideally at the time of the contract, but definitely long before the closing date) regarding possession of the home and moving date. Having sellers and buyers meet on the front walk–each with a house full of furniture–is not a happy situation. Get these agreements in writing to avoid unnecessary hassles on moving day!

2. Start planning early. Once you are reasonably confident that you will be proceeding with the purchase, start weeding out your current possessions. Toss (or give away, or sell at a yard sale) things that you don’t want to move. This goes a long way toward un-cluttering your life, too!

3. Compare moving plans. Are you going to want to do the entire move yourself? Will you want a professional mover to handle the entire process? Don’t wait until the last minute–or you may be doing the whole move on your own. Compare rates and services as well as availability.

4. Prepare a list of all those who will need to be contacted at your new home (utilities, schools, etc.)

5. Make a list on any important items you will need to buy for the new house. Examples: draperies, blinds, shower curtains, etc. Having these things with you on the day you move in prevents unnecessary surprises.

6. Start packing early. Anything that you are sure you will not be using before moving day should get boxed.

7. Determine a “staging area” where any items that are ready to be moved are placed. This saves a lot of the aggravation associated with having boxes scattered throughout your present living quarters and gives you a place to look should you need an item that is already packed.

8. Mark every box and carton. Again, it makes it much easier if you need an item before you move, and makes it much simpler after you move. Unpacking will probably be somewhat of a gradual process–this way you know where the most necessary items are located.