METCALF MOVING BLOG
How to Move Out of Your Home on Short Notice
Ideally, you would have at least two months to plan and execute a smooth household move. But sometimes, life isn’t that simple, and families need to move in a hurry.
If you need to move on short notice, a calm, organized approach is best. Here are some tips to help you tackle a move when you don’t have the luxury of time.
Make a Checklist
A last-minute move requires even more organization than one where you have more time. A detailed checklist will help you stay on track.
Create your own personal moving checklist. Include all the tasks that need to be taken care of and keep it available at all times. Keep it accessible on your phone or laptop so that you can refer to it and have it handy to make changes or modifications at any point. You want to add, remove, or check that something is completed right away in real-time.
Include the task to be completed, who is responsible for completing the job, and the deadline. Incorporate additional details like contact names and phone numbers if necessary.
Book Your Movers
Whether you decide to hire a household moving company or attempt a DIY move, you need to secure either the movers or your truck immediately.
With a short-notice move, finding available movers or a truck might be a challenge. As soon as you know you need to relocate, make some calls. Look for reliable local movers with availability and do your research. Time is short, but have them conduct a virtual tour, get the quotes, and select the mover that will fit your needs.
Plan Your Packing
Start packing by designating rooms in order of importance. Pack the essential items last because you’ll likely need these before you move. Seasonal items and sports equipment, for example, can be packed away first. Save the primary areas of the kitchen and bathrooms until the end.
Make sure you label everything. Even though it seems like it takes more time, the time you will save when unpacking will be worth it in your new place.
Consider having your movers do the packing for you. Scheduling this service as part of your moving package can save you a lot of time and resources. Professional movers pack efficiently and effectively. Their effort can take the strain off when your timing is tight.
Get Your Supplies
If you are packing yourself, stock up on moving supplies. You will need:
- Small, medium, and large packing boxes
- Packing tape
- Labels
- Permanent markers
- Packing paper and bubble wrap
Change Your Information
If you have cable, internet, gas, and electricity under your name, you’ll need to let those respective companies know that you’re moving. In many cases, they can transfer your services, but, of course, you have to tell them when you will move out.
Depending on how far you’re moving, you might also need to transfer important records. Talk to your doctor’s office to transfer things like medical records.
Need to Move Out Quickly?
A household move is a challenge even when you have adequate time for the move. If you need to move out in a hurry, doing it yourself is quite stressful.
If you need to move in a hurry, we can help. Contact us today for a quote.
