The Pre- and Post-Moving Checklist
Besides packing, unpacking and the actual move, there are a number of things on the grand to-do list when you are moving. From the big, important items like changing your address with everyone to the little, fun items like starting a take-out menu file, this is the checklist that can help you stay on top of everything.
Before moving:
Call gas, water and electric companies and transfer service into your name.
Connect TV & Internet services.
Change your address: File a change of address with USPS and IRS. Notify credit card companies, bank and investment companies of your new address. Update your license, registration and voter card. Update passport.
Gather important documents like titles, birth certificates, and passports and hand-carry those because you do not want to lose them in a move. They are precious because replacing them is a real pain.
Take photos of valuable items and consider moving insurance. Even the most careful mover has an accident now and then.
Research local businesses: plumbers, painters, electricians, handymen, landscapers, etc. Your new neighbors can also help with their recommendations after you move.
Schedule time off from work. The sea of boxes will not unpack themselves, unless you've hired a mover/packer to do that, and then a little oversight will ease moving stress.
Schedule a deep cleaning of your new home (if we have not already done that for you).
Schedule home improvements - new paint, new landscape, etc.
Post-move:
Change your locks. You don't know who has a copy of the key.
Set up your home security system.
Test your smoke and CO detectors.
Check your HVAC system and change the filters if needed.
Find a spot for that fireproof box or safe and put those precious important documents inside.
Find out your neighborhood's designated trash days. Install outlet covers if you have small children.
Develop a family escape plan in case of fire.
Set up your earthquake kit.
Locate main circuit breaker and water and gas shutoff valves.
Start a ‘house book’ for things like appliance manuals, internet passwords, maintenance checklists, and names and numbers of painters, handymen, veterinarians, etc. This is also super-helpful if you have house-sitters in the future.
Start a take-out menu file (we keep ours with the cookbooks)
Throw yourself a housewarming party! (Setting a date for this gives you an unpacking deadline, which is more helpful than you know.)
Hopefully, this checklist helps you stay on track and eases some moving stress. We offer a concierge service that takes care of many of these checklist items. Let us know if you need help!