Statistics state that over 35.5 million Americans move every year due to different reasons. These People rely on moving companies and many of them decide to move on their own. Whatever be your reason to move, moving even the most compact household is an intricate process.
The experts at iMoving, a reputed platform offering moving services, state that the only way a move can be made successful is with the right organization. Using a checklist for moving is what experts suggest is the best way of organizing a move. Planning and organizing a move is very important as when you have a predefined moving plan you do not have to worry about what to do next, how to handle a situation and ensure a successful move.
In this post, we have shared an easy to follow and relatable moving checklist that will help you move without losing your sanity and ensure success.
Planning ahead of time saves you from stress
One of the most common explanations of a moving process is that it is a stressful process. As soon as you decide to move to a new property and till the day of the move, there are a lot of complex situations that you have to manage every day.
Staying organized is the key to ensure that the move is stress free but still you will have to plan for the money and time you will be investing in the move. This is why it is important to your efforts in proper planning of all aspects of the move; including financial planning and a fixed timeline. By keeping track of time and whatever you do, you can avoid making expensive moving mistakes.
Know your moving options
There are various options that you can choose while moving to your new property. The choice depends on a range of factors and each one requires a different amount of time, energy, and money and effort investment. The top moving options that you have include:
DIY Move
One of the cheapest ways to move to a new property is taking charge of your own move. You can rent a truck, pack on your own and drive the truck to the new property. It is a very time-consuming way to move and the success of the move depends on your skills and experience.
Full service movers
Hiring full-service movers is the best way to move to your new property. The movers have experience, skills and knowledge to handle all types of moves. They ensure that the move is quicker and successful with minimum stress for you.
Hybrid move
If you want, you can try handling some of the move related processes on your own and rely on the movers for the rest. You can save time and efforts as well as a lot of money if you choose to have a hybrid move.
When should you start preparing for the move?
It is advisable that you start gearing up for the move as soon as you get to know about it. Usually, it is the best if you start prepping up for the relocation about two months in advance. This way not only will you be able to plan and organize the move, but you will also have sufficient time in hand to give a proper notice to your landlord and find the best moving company. The usual notice period is 30 days that you have to give to your landlord or property manager. Just submit your intent to move in writing well in advance, and you are all set to plan your move without worrying about the legal consequences.
Moreover, when you have sufficient time, you will be able to think more clearly and ensure that you know what to expect next in the timeline. Here is a moving timeline with key highlights:
6 to 8 weeks before the moving day
The first thing you must do 6-8 weeks before the moving day is start your search for the best movers. Start searching the market for options, get moving quotes, compare the credibility of the movers and once decided, ask for everything in writing. Additionally you must:
- Start making a folder for all the important documents.
- Make a plan for the moving day. Chalk out the items you can move on your own and the ones you will need professional help.
- Plan a moving budget; know all the costs that you will incur during the move.
- Start searching for the best neighborhood to live in the new city.
- Declutter your belongings. You must know what to move and what you should leave behind.
4 to 5 weeks before the moving day
As the moving day comes closer, you can feel the stress building up. You need to ensure you stay sane and focus on your planning. At this time you should:
- Contact the utility companies and ask them for a closure or a transfer.
- Start the process of address change and inform all the due authorities.
- Start collecting moving supplies.
- Make a color coding scheme for the boxes you pack.
- Prepare the kids, old adults and pets at your home for the move.
2 to 3 weeks before the moving day
This is the most crucial time and you must have things set up straight by this time. You must fold your sleeves and start packing at full scale. Start packing the non-essential items first and then come to the essential items.
Moving to a new property is very exciting but if you do not plan right for it, the most happening day of your life can become a complete disaster. Use this checklist and move to your new property with great ease and fun.
