Cut the Stress with a Moving Checklist

Moving can be an exciting life change; however, it can also be a very stressful event if you're not properly prepared.

It's important to create a detailed checklist a few months ahead of time in order to ensure things go smoothly.  Here are some points to get you started:

Two Months Before

• Itemize all of the major items you'll be moving.
• Get estimates and book the movers or rental truck.
• Start sucking up to friends and family for help!
• Have a garage sale to get rid of excess clutter.

One Month Before

• Update your insurance, medical and school records to your new location.
• Arrange to disconnect and reconnect utilities and telephone/Internet services.
• Notify any other important parties of your address changes.

A Few Weeks Before

• Plan meals so food in your fridge and freezer gets used up.
• Gather boxes and pack up items you don't regularly use.
• Arrange for someone to look after your pets on moving day.
• Return library materials and other rental items.

The Final Week

• Water your plants a couple of days before you move.
• Pack up belongings and clearly label items that are fragile.
• Pack a suitcase with items you'll need to get you through the first week in your new home.
• Gather valuable items such as legal documents and family photos so you can transport them yourself.

Day of the Move

• Double check the movers have your new address and cell phone number.
• Have lots of refreshments on hand for your busy helpers!
• Remove the light bulbs from all of your lamps.
• Make sure you have your new keys.

Moving causes a wide range of emotions from sadness to extreme excitement.  Although moving can be stressful at times, a little bit of planning will provide you with some very valuable peace of mind.  With the help of the above checklist, you can now breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy this exciting new phase of your life!