Preparing for a Big Move

Getting ready for a big move can be as easy or as complicated as you make it. The smoothest moves are accomplished with a little planning and research. Whether you decide to move yourself or you employ a moving company, you can follow these simple tips to make sure your move goes off without a hitch.If you have ever moved, you know how complicated it can be. Between the choices you have of how you are going to move your items to the best order in which to do things, you have your work cut out for you. Moving is a full-time job, and if you already have a job, you know that you do not have a ton of time to spend on your move. Here are some tips to make sure you get as much done as you can in as little time as possible.Make a ChecklistOne of the most important things you can do is make a detailed checklist outlining the tasks you will need to complete for your move.Here are some of the things you need to include on your checklist

Research moving companies

You want to make sure that you are choosing a reputable company. Research companies online, check their Better Business Bureau rating, look for them on reputable sites like Angie’s List, and read and take heed to customer reviews on sites like Yelp. Make sure your company is insured and do research on the insurance policy. Reputable companies will not have you pay until the day of, and after everything is delivered safely.

Sort and purge

You do not need to move every single thing in your home. You should sort through old clothes, knick knacks, furniture and more. Donate what you can, have a garage sale, do whatever you need to do so you are not paying to move stuff you do not really want.

Inventory your items

Make lists of everything you have that you are moving. Try to keep it organized by what goes in what room. This will help with the unpacking process as well. You will also know if anything goes missing so you can file a claim if need be.

Label everything

If you are doing your own packing, this will really help you stay organized. Pack like items together, such as all kitchen items together. Then, label the boxes with a certain color of marker or tape. This will make it easier for the movers to get it all in the right spot.

Create a moving binder

Put all of your receipts, invoices and expenses in here. This will help you stay organized on moving day and also help you keep your moving expenses ready to submit for tax time.

Organize school and medical records

Now is the time to order school records to be sent to the new school, to get medical and veterinary records transferred or in your possession.

Use perishable items

Make sure you eat what you can from your freezer and refrigerator so you do not end up having to throw things away.

Keep very valuable items safe

Pack your most valuable items in a box that you will keep with you during your move. Even in the most careful of situations, you do not want someone else to be responsible for irreplaceable jewelry or other like items.

Submit your change of address

Make sure your post office, schools, subscriptions, bills, family and more all know your new address. Submit the forwarding form to the post office.

Arrange for time off work

You will want to be present with the movers on moving day so make sure you have the time off work.

Stock up on prescriptions

Get refills of your prescriptions and stock up on what you can. You never know how hard it could be to get your new pharmacy set up and you do not want to go without anything.

Pack suitcases

Have a suitcase for at least a week packed for each person. That way you will not have to deal with washing anything or doing anything but unpacking for that length of time.

Confirm arrangements

There are many companies that will give you one quote that will look much different than the actual cost come moving day. See if the owner or a company representative will come out and give you another quote now that all of your items are packed and ready.

Plan for moving payment

Especially if you are closing bank accounts, you will need to make sure that your moving payment is all set up. Get a cashier’s check or money order, or use your debit card so you can have a receipt. Do not pay cash.