METCALF MOVING BLOG

30 Days Before Your Move: Simplify the Process a Month Ahead

The quicker you make plans and arrangements as your moving day approaches; the less overwhelming the project will seem. The fact is, it is never really too early to get started when you know you will be moving soon. You can take care of several things at least a month in advance. Here are a few things you can do 30 days ahead to lighten the load.

Pre-arrange Utility Changes

You should handle your utility setup ahead when you move from one home to the next. Prearrange with the local utility companies to disconnect services at the old address and turn them on at the new place. Reach out to the utility companies at least four weeks in advance. Go ahead and make the calls to cover things like:

• Water
• Gas
• Electric
• Cable
• Internet
• Home phone
• Waste collection

Gather Moving Supplies

The last month at the old house before your move will likely be when you do most of your packing unless you get started early. Therefore, it is always good if you already have your packing supplies on hand to carry you through the process. About a month before moving day, make a trip to collect everything you need, such as:

• Boxes
• Packing tape
• Filler materials
• Markers or box labels
• Bubble wrap

Make Arrangements at Work

When moving, the average person will need a little wiggle room in their work schedule. It is always a good idea to ask for this time well in advance—professionals recommend submitting time-off requests at least two weeks in advance and possibly more. Check-in with your manager or boss, let them know that you are moving and discuss the time-off request policy where you work.

As a side note, it can also be helpful to consider submitting requests to use something like personal time or vacation days, so you don’t have to lose pay. Moving can come with some added expenses, so you may want to make sure your paychecks are not affected.

Create a Timeline of What’s to Come

An excellent moving timeline on paper can act as your roadmap, so there is less of a chance that some task sneaks up on you that you have forgotten. So, about a month before your scheduled last day at the current address, sit down with a notebook and create a loose timeline of all the things you need to handle in the coming weeks. A few things to add to the list commonly forgotten include:

• Make arrangements for a pet sitter and babysitter
• Get rid of perishable food items in your refrigerator
• Change your mailing address at the post office
• Drop off donation items you don’t plan to take with you
• Reach out to the landlord to discuss your security deposit

Schedule Professional Movers in Advance

One last task to check off your list. Schedule your move with your preferred moving company. Keep in mind that securing your spot early prevents you from searching for available professionals later. If you would like to get started with a moving quote, reach out to us for a free estimate.