Professional Moving Advice: Long Distance Moving Checklist

Moving long distances can be quite complex, so having a comprehensive checklist can help you stay organized and ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a detailed long-distance moving checklist to guide you through the process:

8-12 Weeks Before Moving:

1. Create a Moving Binder: Keep all important documents, estimates, and receipts in one place.
2. Research Moving Companies: Get quotes from reputable moving companies and read reviews. Choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
3. Set a Moving Budget: Calculate costs for moving services, travel, accommodations, and other expenses.
4. Sort and Purge: Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
5. Notify Employer/Schools: Inform your employer and your children’s schools about the upcoming move.
6. Notify Landlord: If you’re renting, notify your landlord of your intent to move and discuss lease termination.
7. Arrange Temporary Housing: If needed, book temporary accommodation at your destination.

6-8 Weeks Before Moving:

1. Notify Service Providers: Inform utility companies, internet, cable, and other service providers about your move.
2. Medical Records: Request copies of medical records for all family members and find new healthcare providers at your destination.
3. Notify Important Contacts: Update your address with banks, insurance companies, subscriptions, and other important contacts.
4. Start Packing: Begin packing items you won’t need immediately. Label boxes by room and contents.

4-6 Weeks Before Moving:

1. Create an Inventory: Make a detailed inventory of all your belongings, especially valuable or fragile items.
2. Arrange for Vehicle Transportation: If you’re not driving your vehicles, arrange for auto transportation services.
3. Notify Government Agencies: Update your address with the post office, and if applicable, notify the IRS, DMV, and voter registration.
4. Pack Seasonal Items: Pack items not in use, such as seasonal clothing, decorations, and sports equipment.

2-4 Weeks Before Moving:

1. Confirm Moving Date: Confirm the moving date with your chosen moving company.
2. Notify Friends and Family: Inform friends and family of your new address.
3. Pack Essentials: Pack a box of essentials like toiletries, clothing, and important documents for the first few days at your new home.
4. Label Valuables: Clearly mark valuable items that require special care during the move.
5. Dispose of Hazardous Items: Properly dispose of items that cannot be moved, such as flammable materials.

1 Week Before Moving:

1. Confirm Details: Confirm the moving arrangements, including dates, times, and services with the moving company.
2. Pack a Survival Kit: Pack a box with essentials for the first day at your new home, including snacks, drinks, and important documents.
3. Empty Fridge and Freezer: Start using up perishable foods, so you don’t have to move them.

Moving Day:

1. Final Walk-Through: Do a final walk-through of your current home to ensure everything is packed.
2. Supervise the Move: Be present when the moving company loads your belongings and ensure everything is accounted for.
3. Check Contact Information: Confirm the moving company’s contact information and driver’s name for the new location.

After Moving:

1. Inspect Deliveries: Inspect your belongings for any damage during transportation.
2. Change Locks: Change the locks on your new home for security.
3. Update Address: Update your address on official documents, driver’s license, and vehicle registration.
4. Explore the New Area: Familiarize yourself with the new neighborhood, local services, and emergency contacts.
5. Register Your Car: If moving to a new state or country, register your vehicle and update your driver’s license.
6. Register to Vote: Update your voter registration information.

Moving long distances requires careful planning and organization. By following this checklist, you can reduce stress and ensure a successful transition to your new home. Remember to adjust the timeline based on your specific moving circumstances and needs. If you’re ready to start your move contact us to get your free estimate.