Did you know that the average American will move approximately 11 times in his or her life?
If yours is a military family, that number could easily go much higher. Whether you are moving from a college dorm to a new apartment, or from one house to another in a new city, this situation is decidedly a stressful one.
One thing that might ease the pressure, make sure everyone is on the same page, and help the process go smoothly is to create a moving timeline. Read on for our best tips!
The Ultimate Moving Timeline
Our timeline presumes that you have already found your next residence. If you know that you must vacate one home by a particular day, but haven’t yet secured the next one, you will need to build in even more time.
However, if you’ve signed the dotted line on a lease or contract, then it’s time to create a moving checklist timeline. Let’s get started!
8 Weeks Out
- Begin researching moving companies. After finding a new home, this is the most important step! Use personal recommendations and online review sites.
- Gather supplies: a calendar, printable checklist, boxes and packing tape, and a folder in which to keep all your paperwork.
- Start sorting! Now is the time to get rid of clutter and downsize your belongings as much as possible.
6 Weeks Out
- Plan a yard sale or place classified ads for items you want to sell. Stash away the money you make to put towards unforeseen moving expenses.
- Arrange to have a charity pick any items that do not sell. Lighten your load in other ways by using up perishables and personal care products.
- Book the moving company that you have chosen, particularly if your move will fall during the spring or summer—the busiest time of year.
5 Weeks Out
- Arrange to have medical and school records transferred.
- Switching utility providers? Cancel your old services and arrange a date for the new ones to begin. Leaving a few days of overlap is a smart idea.
- If you haven’t already booked your moving company, now is the time!
4 Weeks Out
- Pick up a change of address form, and start letting everyone know your new address.
- Start packing! Remember that it always takes longer than you think it will. Start with out-of-season and infrequently used items.
- Arrange to transfer your homeowner’s insurance policy.
- Make sure your car is in tip-top shape for the drive if your new home is a considerable distance.
2 Weeks Out
- Pack, pack, pack! Set aside valuables to keep in your possession.
- As you empty each room, clean it thoroughly—or book a professional cleaning service to do the job once you have left.
- Dispose of any hazardous materials that can’t go with you.
The Week Before Moving Day
- Confirm with your moving company.
- Empty out the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry and clean them. Donate any uneaten nonperishables.
- Pack a bag of essentials that will go with you, not on the moving truck. This bag should include prescription medication, devices and chargers, a change of clothes, and toiletries.
It’s Moving Day!
- Make one final sweep of your home, checking all storage spaces and closets for forgotten items.
- Greet the professional movers who will transport your belongings to your new home.
- Relax and enjoy your new home!
Final Thoughts
It’s no secret that moving can take a toll. Minimize the stress with a little foresight and a moving timeline, and make sure to take care of all the details.
Need professional moving services? Contact Meyer for a free quote!
