METCALF MOVING BLOG
Relocating: A Moving Into a New House Checklist
Although buying a home is an exciting new adventure, it inevitably comes with a lot of headaches.
There’s so much to take care of: packing up, transferring school records, finding out whether your couch will fit through your new door frames. It feels impossible to keep track of all the things that have to get done.
The only way to keep your sanity is to stay organized. If you resist the temptation to procrastinate, you’ll have a much smoother moving experience.
Moving can be a stressful venture. Some researchers say it’s even more stressful than divorce. A moving into a new house checklist will help you tackle things efficiently.
2 Months Before Moving Day
Two months feels like plenty of time. But, before you know it, it’ll be time to move. Get started now and thank yourself later!
Toss/Donate/Sell
Now’s the time to try to get rid of as much stuff as you can. Go room to room and make piles of what you will toss, donate, or sell.
Create a Moving Folder
Here you can keep track of moving expenses (which is helpful if you are eligible to use them as a tax write-off), quotes, and inventory lists.
Get Moving Quotes
Do some research on moving companies. Gather some quotes and keep them in your folder, so you don’t forget.
Order Supplies
Start collecting all of your moving supplies. Keep them in a designated spot, so you know where everything is.
Six Weeks-One Month Before
Did you get started last month gathering supplies and purging belongings? Then you should be feeling pretty good right now. Last month was about prep, and now it’s time to go to work.
Start Packing!
Begin with the non-essential items first. Anything seasonal, artwork, sporting goods, etc.
Get Measurements
If you can, get measurements of the doorways and room dimensions in the new house. Then measure your furniture to make sure it will all fit.
Pick Your Mover
Choose your moving company and get written confirmation of the dates and prices. Don’t forget to put that in your moving folder!
Get Started on an Inventory List
After you’ve gotten rid of everything you don’t plan on taking, start making a room-by-room inventory list. To make it easier, use a premade checklist.
One Week Before
It’s crunch time! Don’t panic. After putting in the work the last seven weeks, you shouldn’t have too much left to do.
Finish Packing
Put aside the clothes and other items you’ll need for the next week. Everything else gets put in a box.
Assemble a “First Night Box”
Put together a box of things you might need your first night. Toiletries, toilet paper, pajamas, batteries, paper plates and cups.
Secure Pet Care
If you have a pet, you don’t want to be worried about them escaping or biting a mover. Find a pet sitter or a place to board them.
The Day Before
Everything is ready to go. Complete your last few tasks and get to bed early. You have a big day tomorrow!
Defrost the Freezer
A freezer needs 24 hours to defrost. If you’re taking your fridge with you, don’t forget this step!
Reconfirm Details
Confirm with anyone who might be helping out the next day, including movers, pet, and babysitters.
Moving Day
The big day is here! You did everything you needed to, and now you just have to let the movers do their job.
Inventory
Sign the inventory checklist before the movers leave. Be sure to keep a copy for yourself.
Using a Moving into a New House Checklist Will Keep You On-Track
The moving process can be tough, but if you start early, you can minimize the stress. A moving into a new house checklist will keep you organized and on top of things. Another surefire way to make moving easier is by hiring people to do the heavy lifting for you.
If you’re going to be moving soon, we can help. Contact us today for a quote!