Checklist for Moving

Before You Leave

• Address Change
  • Post Office: Give forwarding address
  • Charge Accounts, Credit Cards
  • Subscriptions: Notice requires several weeks
  • Friends and Relatives
• Bank
  • Cancel any automatic payment or direct deposit arrangements
  • Transfer funds & arrange check-cashing in new city
  • Arrange credit references
• Insurance
  • Notify company of new location for coverage's: Life, Health, Fire, and Auto
• Utility Companies
  • Gas, Electricity, Water, Telephone, Fuel, Garbage, and Cable T.V.
  • Get refunds on any deposits made
• Delivery Service
  • Laundry, newspaper, change over of services
• Children
  • Register in school
  • Transfer school records
  • Arrange for day care
• Medical, Dental, Prescription Histories
  • Ask Doctor and Dentist for referrals; transfer needed prescriptions, eyeglasses, X-rays
  • Obtain birth records, medical records, etc.
• Pets
  • Consult a veterinarian about moving your pet
  • Obtain all records
  • Ask about regulations for licenses, vaccinations, tags, etc.
• Don't Forget To:
  • Empty freezer; plan use of foods
  • Defrost freezer and clean refrigerator. Place charcoal inside to dispel odors
  • Have appliances serviced for moving
  • Clean rugs or clothing before moving; have them moving-wrapped
  • Clean and/or repair furniture and curtains
  • Check with your moving counselor on insurance coverage, packing and unpacking labor, arrival day, various shipping papers, method and time of expected payment
  • Plan for special care needs for your infants and pets
  • Assemble first day items - soap, toilet paper, pencils, paper, toiletries, bath towels, utility knife, scissors, trash bags, etc.
  • Obtain relocation package from Real Estate agent or Chamber of Commerce in your new city
  • Arrange for storage (if needed)
  • Find out about tax-deductible moving expenses
  • Obtain all personal records from lawyers and accountants
  • Assemble packing materials
  • Have car checked and serviced for the trip
  • Pack a day or two worth of extra clothing in case of a delay
• On Moving Day
  • Make a list of every item and box loaded onto the truck.
  • Carry enough cash or travelers checks to cover cost of moving services and expenses until you make banking connections in your new city.
  • Carry jewelry and documents yourself; or use registered mail.
  • Carry an assortment of toys for the children (if needed).
  • Let a close friend or relative know route and schedule you will travel including overnight stops; use them as your message headquarters.
  • Double check closets, drawers, and shelves to be sure they are empty.
  • Turn off all appliances and lock all doors and windows
  • Leave all old keys needed by new tenant or owner with Realtor or neighbor.
  • Let the movers know where you can be reached.
• At Your New Address
  • Check off all the boxes and items as they come off the truck.
  • Install new locks.
  • Check on service of gas, electricity, water, telephone, garbage, and Cable T.V.
  • Check pilot light on stove, hot water heater, and furnace.
  • Have appliances checked.
  • Ask mail carrier for mail he or she may be holding for you.
  • Apply for state driver license (or just address change if needed).
  • Visit city offices and register for voting.
  • Register car within five (5) days after arrival in state or a penalty may have to be paid when getting new license plates.
  • Obtain inspection sticker and transfer motor club membership.
  • Arrange for medical services: doctor, dentist, veterinarian, etc.