Moving can be an exciting and stressful time. Moving your entire family, including kids and pets, can quickly become chaotic.
Whether you’re moving across town or the country, there are a lot of tasks to complete and things to keep track of before moving day. And you have to keep your family happy and yourself from freaking out.
The key to a successful move is staying organized and having a plan. This post presents the ultimate moving checklist for families to help you through the process.
Create a Moving Binder
The first step to stay organized is to create a moving binder for essential documents related to the move. It will help you keep everything in one place. Include things like your moving contract, old and new lease agreements, and list of moving boxes and their contents. You can also use it to keep track of your to-do list and any important phone numbers.
Hire a Moving Company
The next step is to find a suitable moving company. Make sure to read reviews and check each company’s credentials, including required licenses and insurance. Speak with several companies and get quotes before making a final decision. Once you’ve chosen a company, be sure to get a written estimate and a contract outlining the terms of the move. The company should do an in-person or virtual inventory of your belongings to provide an accurate quote.
Declutter
Moving is the perfect time to declutter your home. Go through each room and decide what you no longer need or want. You can sell, donate, or discard these items. Reducing the amount of unneeded baggage you bring will make your move more manageable and less expensive and help you get a fresh start in your new home.
Pack Room by Room
It’s important to pack each room individually. Start with the rooms you use the least, such as the guest room or attic. Be sure to label each box with the room it belongs in and a brief description of its contents. Also keep a list of boxes and their contents in your binder. This will make unpacking much more straightforward.
Notify Required Parties
Don’t forget to inform people of your move. Of course, you’ve probably already told your friends, relatives, and everyone you know on Facebook, but don’t forget the electric and gas company and your Internet service provider. You’ll want to schedule to transfer your account to your new address or to disconnect your current services and connect your new services before your move.
Change Your Address
You’ll also want to change your address with the postal service and any companies that send you mail. This includes your bank, credit card companies, and insurance providers. You can change your address with the postal service online or by filling out a change of address form at your local post office.
Pack a First Night Box
On the day of your move, you’ll need to have a first-week box packed and ready to go. This box should contain items you’ll need during the first week in your new home while you’re still unpacking. This box should include medications, bedding, toiletries, and some clothes. You’ll be glad to have these essentials readily accessible when you arrive at your new home.
Clean Your Old Home
Before leaving your old home, make sure to clean it well. This includes sweeping and mopping floors, wiping countertops, and cleaning bathrooms. You’ll also want to make sure all appliances are clean and empty. Check all cabinets and cupboards for items you may have left, and don’t forget the basement and attic.
Make Arrangements for the Kids and Pets
Moving can be stressful for young children and pets, so do what you can to ease the anxiety and keep them occupied and out of the way on moving day. Prepare games or diversions for children, and consider arranging for temporary shelter for pets at a friend’s or relative’s home or a pet hotel while the move is going on.
Unpack Room by Room
Just like you packed room by room, you should unpack room by room. This time, start with the rooms you’ll use first, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. Be sure to take breaks and stay hydrated throughout the process. As tempting as it may be to try to get everything settled at once, take your time and unpack gradually over a period of days or weeks.
Settle In to Your New Home
Finally, take some time to settle into your new home and neighborhood. Explore your new environment and meet your new neighbors. Make any necessary repairs to your home and customize it to your liking. This is also a great time to update your home security, if necessary, by installing new locks or a security system.
Update Your Driver’s License and Voter Registration
After you’ve moved, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration to reflect your new address, if required. Many states require this to be done within a certain time.
Register Your Children for School
If you have school-age children, register them for school in your new district. This should be done well before the start of the school year to ensure a smooth transition. Take the opportunity to meet their teachers and other school officials and some of the other parents.
Get Involved in Your New Community
Finally, get involved in your new community. Join local groups or clubs that match your interests and attend community events. This is a great way to meet new people and feel more connected to your new surroundings.
Moving can be challenging for families, but the right plan and organization can make it a smooth transition. This ultimate moving checklist for families will help ensure you don’t forget any important tasks and stay on track. Good luck with your move!
We hope you found this post, The Ultimate Moving Guide for Families helpful. Be sure to check out our post, The Ultimate Home Relocation Checklist for Beginners for more great information.
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