15 Things That Need To Be On Your Handy Moving Checklist
Gather Vital Records
Before you start packing, compile important documents. You’ll want to keep identification, social security cards, birth certificates, medical records, and banking information in a safe place. You should have these items for every family member, including pets. Purchase a three-ring binder and some sheet protectors for your paperwork. Carry these items with you if possible.
Find Sitters
If you have children, human or otherwise, plan to have a sitter on moving day. Sending the kids to play with friends or putting them in daycare will keep them away from the bustling house on move day. Pets should be boarded or secured so that they are not accidentally let out or stepped on during all the commotion.
You might want to contact College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors, they have 9 location in Houston including The Woodlands. They are a respected, complete and professional resource helping busy families raise smart, confident, well-adjusted kids. Since 2001 they have built local professional teams across the country who’ve helped hundreds of busy parents carve out time for themselves with a sitter, have help on hand with a part-time or full-time nanny, or get their college-bound student the tutoring they need to succeed
Make an open-immediately box
Moving can cause you to rack up some serious expenses, but having an open-immediately box is an easy way to cut costs. Take a moment to consider what you will need when you reach your destination. Think about things that you use every day.
Things you might consider placing into such a box include:
- Hand Soap
Switch utilities
As soon as you have a moving date, get in touch with your utility companies at your current and future home. Some companies require a few weeks’ notice to switch or close accounts. You also want to be sure that your electricity and water will be working at your new home when you arrive. Keep track of the dates on which you make these calls and keep utility numbers handy in case you run into a problem.
Load up on packing supplies
Even if you are hiring professional movers, it won’t hurt to have a permanent marker, packing tape, and a few boxes on hand. Some items need to be packed before move day and having packing supplies will make this easier for you.
Secure jewelry and other valuables
If you have diamond rings and antiques, keep them with you. These items are easy to lose and hard to replace.
Assemble work items
If you are planning to work during the week of your move, you will need to keep necessary clothing, equipment, and anything else you need for work available. Be sure that this box is clearly marked, and keep it in close proximity to your open-immediately box.
Collect pet essentials
Going to a new home is a big adjustment for pets. They should have carriers, familiar food, bowls, and a few of their favorite toys. Litter boxes with litter and leashes should be kept separate from the rest of your boxes for easy access.
Pack a suitcase
Each person will need a bag with clothes, toiletries, and prescriptions. Consider the number of days that you will be displaced and adjust the number of sets of clothing accordingly. For children, it’s wise to include a few extra items to entertain them during the transition. For parents, it’s probably a smart decision to keep a wine bottle opener handy for when you finally get some time to relax at the end of an extremely long day.
Tag essential electronics and chargers
At some point in the move, things will go into boxes quickly. Don’t let your phone charger fall into the mix. Laptops and external hard drives should also receive special attention. If possible, keep these with you. Be sure to label cords and keep related items together. You’ll thank yourself when you quickly set up your electronics on the other side of the move.
Amass cleaning supplies
You need cleaning supplies on both sides of a move. You have to be sure that your old home passes the move-out inspection, and you may need to wipe shelves and countertops in your new place before you put everything away. Have buckets, cleaners, trash bags, paper towels, and a broom ready for use.
Collect keys
Vehicle keys and house keys should be kept in a safe place. The last thing you want to do is pay a hefty fee for a lost key.
Make a toolkit
You may need to disassemble and reassemble items during the move. Have the tools necessary for such work in an accessible place. You should include a claw hammer in case you need to pull nails and a utility knife to slice through packing materials.
Gather basic cookware
When you arrive at your new home, things may be in disarray for a few days. A pot, a spoon, and a measuring cup can enable you to make rice and pasta dishes. These may not be your most elaborate meals, but you will be able to get the sustenance that you need.
Moving can be stressful, but with a little planning, you can make it easier. Check these items off as you complete them, and you will be well on your way to a good start in your new home.
