Preparing Week By Week For Your Move

A move does not happen overnight. In many cases, it takes weeks and even months of preparation. From the initial decision, to the subsequent searching for a new home, to finally moving into that home, there are multiple steps to be taken.

Everyone has seen or been in a situation where tasks were put off until the last week or last few days. That can make what is supposed to be an exciting experience one that is anything but that. Below is a breakdown and timeline of what you should expect and prepare for in order to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Four to Six Weeks Before:

This is when you should begin notifying others of your impending move. All utilities, including power companies, water companies, and gas companies should be notified of an upcoming address change or new owner. Other important places to notify are banks and credit card companies. Professional services such as doctors, dentists, magazines, and newspapers should also be informed of your address change to avoid confusion later on.

If you accomplish these tasks early, you won’t have to be on the phone leading up to your moving date. This will give you plenty of time to worry about the bulk of the actual move.

Two to Three Weeks Before:

You should contact your moving company and confirm your items to be moved or adjust any changes you might have. Also, if you foresee any potential problems with the moving date, this would be the time to let your moving company know. If your car is being transported, you should solidify arrangements with that company as well.

This is also a good time to verify that everything is in place at your future residence; if you need to pick up anything along the way, set up utilities, or set appointments.

One to Two Weeks Before:

Around this time, you can arrange for additional travel items that a moving company typically won’t handle, such as plants and pets. Many moving companies will not transport live plants, therefore, it is up to you to give them to a neighbor or bring them with you in a car, if you are traveling with one.

You should take your pets to the veterinarian in preparation for your move, especially if you are moving out of state, since most states require health certificates and rabies inoculations. Be sure that their identification and rabies tags are attached to their collars, and they will be ready to travel in a car or airplane.