Moving Checklist Part One

Last week I offered some advice on how to deal with the stress of moving. This week, I’d like to begin a five part moving checklist series covering what you should be doing once you’ve decided to move. I hope that you find this useful and that it will help reduce any stress you may feel even further.

Three to five months before you move:

• Perform a complete and thorough inventory of your home: Go through your entire home and decide what you want to keep and what you can get rid of when you move. Make a note of any items that may need special packaging or additional insurance coverage.
• Find a moving company: Although I will write a longer article on how to find the right Long Island movers, here are a few quick tips to keep in mind when searching for a mover:
• Never get your quote over the phone, make sure to request an onsite estimate — and be sure to get it in writing.
• Interview your mover thoroughly. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Be thorough, and pay attention to every detail. If you have questions or concerns, this would be this time to discuss them.
• Do your homework and research reviews on Google, Yelp, Angie’s List (if you are a member) and Facebook, as well as checking BBB ratings.

Create a moving folder/binder: Put everything related to your move into this binder. Make sure to include your moving estimate, receipts, inventory list, etc. If you have any thoughts or ideas regarding your move, make sure to put them in the binder so you can refer back to them. Organize school records: If you have children, don’t forget to go to their current school and make arrangements to transfer their records. Next week we’ll cover what to do when you are six to eight weeks away from moving day. If you have any questions about this moving checklist or have suggestions you’d like to share, please submit them with via the form I’ve left below, and I try to answer your questions and post your suggestions.