Countdown: One Month



The one month mark is a good opportunity to start getting organized. There's definitely a lot to do, but don't worry. By giving yourself plenty of time, you are ensuring an easier move. Activities at the one month point typically fall into three categories: administrative, collecting and sorting. If applicable, make sure to give your landlord notice of your move (some leases require 60 days or more). Begin to coordinate with utility providers. This means contacting the telephone and cable company to set up services. Also, inform your gas (oil if applicable) and electric provides that you will be the contact at your new property. A final administrative function is to tell work that you'll need time off for the move.

At the one month mark you'll want to start sorting your items into three piles: keep, toss and store. The amount of sorting you do will also dictate how much packing material you need. This is also a good time to start collecting packing materials.

Countdown: Two Weeks

It is the two week point and hopefully you've done a thorough job sorting your stuff. This is a great opportunity to start packing the items you won't need until you're in your new place. At this point there are more administrative items to handle:

- Notify people about your change of address and arrange for the post office to forward your mail.

- Cancel monthly recurring household services such as newspaper delivery.

- Book a moving company, rental truck or self storage facility.

- If applicable, arrange moving transit insurance.

- If applicable, ask someone to look after your kids and pets.

Countdown: One Week

During this time there is probably an excitement in the air over which room in the new home will be used for different functions. Within the last week until the move you'll probably be busy working on packing and cleaning. During this time it is important to remember there are still some administrative things that need to occur. At this point you should be arranging for final bills to be paid (including having meters read) in addition, arrangements should be confirmed with utility companies.

There are also some administrative tasks and tactical issues that need to be addressed. You'll want to exchange keys during this time. Make sure to collect yours as soon as possible. Also, make a map of the new property for the moving company. Prior to the move make sure to have old blankets prepared to put down in the new home to protect the floors and carpets. Ask yourself, will your new home have enough storage space? If you answer ?no,? then you may want to consider making arrangements with a self storage company and also learn more about self storage units.

Countdown: One Day

Tomorrow's the big day! With one day remaining you'll want to start by sealing and labeling all moving boxes with the contents of the box and what room it needs to go to. If possible, consider staging these boxes towards the location of the moving truck--in a garage for example. You'll want to make sure you pack a container with essential emergency supplies until you are fully unpacked. Finally now is the time to finish cleaning your home. This includes defrosting the refrigerator and freezer.

Countdown: Day of Move

On the day of the move remember to focus around security and safety. Make sure you disconnect any remaining electrical appliances and ensure all lights are turned off. Before you lock the door one last time, make sure to account for all items at your new location.