Moving & Relocation

The Basics

Step 1: Organization
It all starts with planning and organizing. Like any big project, you need to plan the work and then work the plan.

• Purchase a special notebook to record information about your move.
• Purchase moving supplies: tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, blankets, moving pads, plastic storage bins, rope and a hand truck. Free boxes can usually be obtained at a local supermarket, but consider purchasing wardrobe boxes for moving clothes.
• Have a garage sale to clear out unwanted items and plan accordingly. Consider donating unwanted items.
• Keep a detailed record of all moving expenses. Your costs may be tax deductible depending on the reasons for your move.
• Create a floor plan of the new house for reference during packing and on moving day.
• Make back-ups of computer files and determine how you will move this delicate equipment.

Step 2: Make the Call
When you move there are many people you need to contact. Here is the essential call list:

• Hire a reputable mover or rent a moving truck. Be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau, get estimates, purchase moving insurance and get referrals or references.
• Two weeks before moving day, contact your telephone, electric, gas, cable/satellite, refuse and water companies to set a specific date when service will be discontinued. Verify this date with your real estate professional as well.
• Contact utilities in your new town about service start dates.
• Notify healthcare professionals (doctors, dentists, veterinarians) of your move and ask for referrals and record transfers.
• Register children for school and ask for school records to be transferred.
• Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when service should be terminated.
• Tell clubs, churches and organizations of your move. And if applicable, see if membership fees can be partially refunded.
• Advise the post office, publications and correspondents of change of address and date of move.
• Check your homeowner's insurance and make arrangements for new coverage.
• If you are moving to a new state, see if you will need new car insurance.

Step 3: Packing
Cramming your entire life into a few dozen boxes can be overwhelming. Try these tips for a smoother move:

• Keep track of all valuables you are moving.
• Use suitcases to their full potential. Fill them with clothes or other items for the move.
• Create an "Open First" box with all the things you need upon arrival (medications, toiletries, linens, first aid kit, garbage bags, phone, light bulbs, flashlight, phone books, towels, food for pets, a leash, etc.) Make sure it is the last item packed so it will be easy to retrieve. Also make sure that tools are handy for reassembling beds and other items.
• Create special boxes for children to open upon first arrival. Include photos, stuffed animals, blanket, radio, CDs, etc.
• As you pack, put aside and label different house related keys you come across to give the new homeowners.

Step 4: Time to Move
It can be a hectic 24 hours, but there are some things you can do to make it easier.

• Have tools handy for breaking down beds and appliances.
• Move valuables (jewelry, legal documents, family photos & collections) yourself - don't send them with the moving company.
• If you are using a professional mover, check the inventory list and make sure you agree with the condition of items. Get a copy of the list for your records.
• Give every room a final once over. Don't forget to check the basement, yards, attic, garage and closets.
• Turn off the water heater and lower the thermostat.
• Get the name of the driver and give him your contact information. Also review directions to your new home.
• Have the final payment for the movers and money for a tip (if satisfied with the job, about $20/mover is recommended.)

Step 5: Finally, Time to Settle In
It’s time to settle in. Don't forget to check in with your real estate professional - he or she may be able to provide useful local advice. In addition to unpacking, these "to-dos" will help you get up to speed.

• Contact utility companies and verify start dates.
• Check the condition of items on the movers' inventory list, as they are unloaded.
• Resume delivery of newspapers and other publications.
• Let the local post office know that you have arrived.
• Create an emergency phone list for your new community and post on the refrigerator.
• Change batteries in smoke detectors and plan a fire escape route.
• Send a thank you note to neighbors, friends and family that assisted with the move.
• Change the locks in your new home.
• Register to vote.
• Mail "We've Moved" cards with your new address and telephone numbers to friends and family.

Packing Tips

A few general things you need to know about packing:

• Keep boxes to 50 lbs or less. Put heavy items in small boxes and light items in big boxes.
• Pack non-breakables tightly in smaller boxes, so they're not too heavy.
• Buy clean newsprint to wrap items, and bubble wrap for padding.
• Pack breakables loosely in plastic storage bins with lots of bubble wrap.
• Rent furniture pads if necessary.
• Mark your boxes by room, so you know exactly where everything goes. Color coding or using a number system works great (i.e., red stickers for bedroom or 1 for bathroom.)
• Write "FRAGILE" on all boxes with breakables and stack these boxes on top.

Packing the Big Things

Beds: Tie bed frames together with tape or rope. Then label the pieces so they're easy to reassemble.

Bureaus: Fill drawers with clothes or fragile, well-wrapped items. Cover with a blanket or furniture pads and rope securely.

Tables: Remove legs, pad and tie together. Put nuts and bolts in a bag and tape under tabletop.

Big appliances: Empty, defrost and drain the fridge, freezer and dishwasher. Clean the interiors and put accessories in bags. Stuff towels between washer sides to prevent rotating and tape down moveable parts. Cover with blankets and tie.

Computers, TVs, & Electronics: Use original packaging, or buy electronic-specific boxes.

Packing the small (but still important) things

Small appliances: Put your microwave, VCR, etc. into boxes, and cushion with wadded paper.

Books: Pack them flat in small cartons, alternating bindings. Try to keep each box under 30 lbs.

Clothing: Pack hanging items, including drapes, in wardrobe boxes. Leave small items in drawers.

Collectibles: Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and tape securely.

CDs: Pack upright and cushion with newspaper.

Kitchenware: Stack pots & pans, and cushion with paper. Put a few of these items in the "open first" box.

Dishes: Never stack them flat. Wrap each piece in bubble wrap. Pack plates & saucers on edge, with cups & bowls placed around them.

Packing the awkward things

Chairs: Wrap arms & legs with bubble wrap. Leave slipcovers on or buy chair bags for protection.

Bicycles: Loosen the handlebars and turn them sideways. Cover chains and pedals to keep grease off other items.

Mirrors, artwork & frames: Wrap small pieces in newsprint and pack in mirror boxes. Cover larger pieces with cardboard, tape securely and stand them along the truck's sides or inside wardrobe boxes.

Lawn furniture: If heavy or bulky, disassemble. Put nuts and bolts in a bag and tie together.

Rugs: Roll up and secure with rope or tape.

Plants: Put in plastic bags with air holes, then in boxes. Water before you leave.

Power and garden tools: Wrap all sharp edges and use plenty of cushioning to prevent injury. Tape long-handled tools together and place small ones in boxes.

Lawn mowers/yard edgers: Empty gasoline from all tanks, and check for oil leaks.

Garage & attic stuff: Use medium-sized boxes for spray paints, brushes, car waxes, etc. Throw away oily rags or anything combustible.

Pets: Always keep them in a pet carrier up front with you. Ask your vet how to make their, and your, move less traumatic.