Moving requires proper planning and preparation. Unless you start thinking about your big move several weeks in advance, you’ll quickly find yourself overwhelmed and stressed. Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to make your big move fast, efficient, and streamlined. One of the most effective is to create and follow a moving timeline. 

Here’s one we recommend:

8 Weeks Before You Move

• Declutter. Start getting rid of items you don’t need, won’t keep, and don’t plan to move. Go through every room in the house – starting with guest rooms, basements, and attics, and moving into the places you use most, like the kitchen and bedroom.
• Hire a moving company. Having a moving company on board will make your move easy and fast. If you haven’t hired a moving company yet, now is the time to shop around for your ideal fit. Look for a company that offers accurate estimates, comprehensive service, and professional teams. 
• Make a checklist. The weeks leading up to your move can get hectic, so now is a great time to make a checklist of all the things you have to do. Include small tasks like changing your address and transferring utilities. 

 

6 Weeks Before You Move

• Learn about tax-deductible moving expenses. If you’re moving for work, many of your moving expenses may be tax-deductible. To claim all the savings you deserve, learn about these deductible expenses upfront, and create a system for saving receipts. 
• Contact your child’s school. It can take some time for the school to transfer records, so be sure to begin this process early. 
• Get referrals for services in your new area. If you need a house cleaner, landscaper, doctor, dentist, or any other service professional, now is a great time to ask around for recommendations and book your first appointment. 

 

4 Weeks Before You Move

• Hold a garage sale. Now it’s time to get rid of all those items you decided you don’t want. Hold a garage sale to make some extra cash from your lightly used items. You can also donate some of your things to friends and family or local charities. 
• Notify your utility providers. While some utilities can transfer ownership in a few hours, others need a week or more to get things straightened out. Notify these companies about four weeks out to ensure timely disconnections and new service transfers. 
• Buy boxes. About four weeks before you move, you’ll want to buy moving boxes and any other equipment you might need. At Gallo, we sell boxes and our team is here to help you find bundles, a la carte items, and anything else you need to move successfully.  

 

2 Weeks Before You Move

• Start packing. It’s never too early to start packing. Give yourself a jump on the process by starting with guest rooms, out-of-season closets, and other items you don’t need every day.
• Notify your banks. Update your mailing address and let your banks know about your upcoming move. 
• Forward your mail. If you haven’t already, forward your mail to your new address and schedule your utilities for transfer.
• Change your shopping habits. Now is an excellent time to stop (or at least minimize) your grocery shopping. When moving day rolls around, you don’t want to move perishable food items. 
• Confirm with your moving company. Make sure your move is still on-track by reaching out to your moving company. Confirm the moving day, time the movers will arrive, and any special services you need. 

 

Proper Planning Makes for a Better Move

Moving is a process, but it doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. By planning your move and following this comprehensive moving checklist, you can control the controllable and enjoy a simpler, more streamlined move. Need help with your upcoming move? Not sure what kind of moving services you need? Contact the team here at Gallo. Our experienced team offers full-service local and long-distance moves, storage services, and more. No matter what your needs may be, we’re here to get the job done. Ready to learn more? Request your free move evaluation now.