Moving house can be an exhilarating journey—a fresh start in a new home. However, it can also be a source of significant stress without proper planning. To ensure your move is as smooth and hassle-free as possible, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive checklist for moving house. From initial preparations to settling into your new space, here’s your ultimate moving house checklist to keep you organized and on track.
Two Months Before the Move
Research and Book Movers
Start by researching moving companies. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and get quotes. Once you’ve chosen a company, book your moving date.
Sort and Declutter
Go through each room and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. This not only makes packing easier but also reduces moving costs.
Begin Packing Non-Essentials
Start packing items you won’t need in the next two months, such as out-of-season clothing, books, and decorative items.
Six Weeks Before the Move
Order Packing Supplies
Purchase or acquire boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Consider special containers for items like dishes or clothing.
Notify Important Parties
Inform banks, employers, schools, and subscription services of your upcoming change of address.
Start Using Up Perishables
Use up items that can’t be moved easily, like frozen foods and cleaning supplies.
One Month Before the Move
Confirm Moving Details
Touch base with your moving company to confirm the date and details.
Begin Packing Most Items
Start packing room by room. Label each box with its contents and intended room in the new house.
Arrange Utilities
Set up the transfer or initiation of utilities at your new home, including electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable.
Two Weeks Before the Move
Pack Suitcases
Pack a suitcase for each family member as if you’re going on a two-week vacation. Include clothes, toiletries, medications, and personal items.
Confirm New Address
Make sure friends and family have your new address. Confirm that all previous notifications for change of address have been processed.
Prepare Appliances
If applicable, start preparing large appliances for the move. Refer to owner’s manuals for specific instructions.
One Week Before the Move
Finalize Packing
Finish packing all items except essentials you’ll need up until moving day.
Set Aside Essential Items
Create an “essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home, like snacks, disposable plates and utensils, basic tools, and cleaning supplies.
Confirm Arrangements
Reconfirm the moving day details with the movers and ensure that there’s a parking space for their truck at both locations.
Moving Day
Supervise Movers
Be present to supervise the movers as they load and unload your belongings. Make sure all items are accounted for on the inventory list.
Final Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind. Check all closets, drawers, and storage areas.
Begin Unpacking
Start by setting up essential furniture and unpacking your essentials box. Gradually unpack room by room.
One Week After the Move
Update Your Address
If not already done, update your address for all accounts, memberships, and identification documents.
Explore Your New Neighborhood
Take some time to explore your new area. Find local amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, and parks.
Throw a Housewarming Party
Once settled, consider throwing a housewarming party to meet neighbors and celebrate your new beginning.
Conclusion
Moving house is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right checklist, you can manage the process efficiently and effectively. By planning ahead and staying organized, you’ll not only reduce stress but also enjoy a smoother transition into your new home. Remember, preparation is key to conquering the chaos of moving!
