Dec

Moving Checklist! Before you leave.

Once you found your perfect home you will need to prepare for the big day. Here is a list to help you!

Complete a change of address form with the post office four to six weeks (if possible) before moving (can be done online at www.usps.com). The post office will generally forward mail for up to one year. You will also need to mail change of address notices to the following:

Post Office
Friends and relatives
Charge Accounts, credit cards
Insurance companies (see below)
Subscriptions (Require 6-8 weeks)
Organizations which you are a member of
Driver’s bureau
Voters Registration officials

Make moving day easy by planning in advance!

Get boxes for items you plan to pack yourself
Schedule a moving company
Notify people who are assisting with the move of the moving day.

Don’t forget to notify your bank before you go!

Discuss branch options in a new location
Arrange for check cashing
Transfer funds
Close Safety Deposit Box
Obtain cash or travelers checks for traveling

Contact your insurance companies!

Cancel home insurance (a day later than the close date just in case)
Arrange home insurance for new property
Provide home insurance company with new address so they can mail a refund of any unused portion of your policy
Be sure to check on your life, auto, health and personal belongings insurance coverage to make sure it is in force while you are in route.
Notify all other insurance of address changes.

Visit your dentist, doctor, and pharmacy before you go!

Transfer prescriptions
Obtain copies of x-rays, medical records, and vaccination history

Be sure to terminate the following utilities and ask for any refunds on deposits made! You will also want to arrange new utilities in advance as some require deposits or take several days to turn on.

Terminate Electric
Terminate Gas
Terminate Water
Terminate Trash
Terminate Phone
Terminate Cable Television (return any cable boxes)
Set up Electric
Set up Gas
Set up Water
Set up Trash
Set up Phone
Set up Cable Television

Cancel any home deliveries or services and arrange for service at your new address.

Newspaper
Cleaning service
Lawn service

Make the move on your pets as easy as possible.

Consult the vet about the move.
Arrange for transport or care for the moving day (travel by air will require special arrangements)
Obtain vaccinations if shots not up to date
Purchase any needed pet medications
Obtain a copy of your pets records
Ask about state or city regulations and arrange for licenses and/or tags at your new location

Don’t forget these last minute items!

Empty freezer, plan use of food.
Clean out refrigerator. Place charcoal or backing soda to dispel odors.
Carry your jewelry or use registered mail
Keep your receipts (check with your accountant on if your move is tax deductible)
Keep documents (important papers along with any papers you might need to close on your new home)
Double check closets, drawers, shelves, and attics for any last minute items