Relocating is a challenging and often stressful process. There are many different elements and details to keep in mind. Buddy Lee’s Shipping & Transport, LLC told us, “The best approach to take is to create a thorough, step-by-step plan. A 90 plan works well, as this gives you sufficient time to ensure that you can fit everything in without rushing too much.”
90 Days Before Moving
At this point, you still have plenty of time before moving day. Don’t let this reassure you too much, though, as time goes fast. Starting three months in advance does give you a head start, so this is the ideal time to begin.
- Create a budget for moving expenses. This will have to be adjusted as you get closer to the date, but you want to have a general idea of how much everything will cost. This includes the cost of the mover, packing materials, transportation to the new location and any other expenses you anticipate.
- Take inventory of what you will be bringing. This is always a good time to let go of things and declutter. Consider selling, donating or throwing out anything you don’t need. It’s often more economical to dispose of large items and buy new ones at your new location.
- Begin researching moving companies. Ask for estimates. Keep in mind that, in order to get an accurate estimate, you must be able to give movers an accurate idea of what you will be taking. That’s why it’s important to take inventory before getting moving estimates. If you are thinking of handling the move on your own, you can research the cost of renting a moving truck or van.
- Learn as much as possible about your new location. If possible, visit for a weekend. You will feel more at home when you arrive if you know the lay of the land, including stores, restaurants, driving routes and malls. You can learn a lot of this online, but it’s best to spend some time driving and walking around your new neighborhood.
60 Days Before Moving
Now that the date is getting closer, you will want to be more definite about your plans.
- If you haven’t decided on a mover or a method of moving yourself, try to settle on the best choice. If you are hiring a mover, you will want to choose a licensed, insured and reliable one. Such movers are usually busy, so it’s good to reserve as far in advance as possible.
- Make any necessary transportation plans. Depending on where you are going and your preferences, this might include plane tickets, hotel reservations or renting a vehicle.
- Take care of practical needs at your new location. Get copies of medical and dental records. If you have pets, get records from your veterinarian. If you have kids, have school records transferred to the new school. Find a new doctor and other health care professionals in your new neighborhood. Decide where you will do your banking. Talk to your insurance company and discuss any policy changes that might be necessary.
30 Days Before Moving
Now that the big day is approaching, you will want to make the final preparations.
- Arrange to have mail forwarded to your new address. Inform everyone, including banks, credit card companies, and any organizations who send you mail, of your new address.
- Cancel any local memberships, such as gyms, that you will no longer be using. In some cases, you may forward your memberships to a new branch.
- Hold a yard or garage sale. This is a good way to unload lots of items you don’t want to bring.
- Begin collecting boxes and packing materials.
- Notify home services and utilities that you will be moving. Cancel services you won’t be using and forward anywhere you will be using the same company. This may include electric, gas, trash removal, water, phone, cable, and internet.
- Begin packing and finalizing travel and moving arrangements one week before the move.
This 90 plan is flexible and will vary depending on your specific plans and needs. The important thing is to make such a long range plan and write everything down. This will help keep you relaxed and ensure that you don’t overlook anything. Relocating is much easier when you plan everything in an organized manner.
