Make an inventory list of all items going with you personally. Keep valuable and irreplaceable items such as jewelry and heirlooms with you, not movers.
Confirm arrangements and dates with moving & storage companies.
Confirm arrangements with auto & pet transportation companies.
Confirm hotel, rental car or temporary housing accommodations.
Clean out and defrost the deep freezer.
Be sure to check yard and sheds for all items to pack.
Take pictures of furniture or get fabric samples for anything you will want to reference for color or decorating before your goods are delivered to your new home.
Set aside a box of cleaning supplies and the vacuum cleaner.
Begin making a “Survival Box” for the move. This should include paper, pens, stamps, envelopes, cellophane & heavy duty tape, scissors, tape measure, paper cups, ziplock bags, paper plates & towels, plastic utensils, facial & toilet tissue, instant coffee or tea, cream/sugar, soap, moist towelettes, aspirin, bandaids, can opener, bottled water, travel alarm, flashlight, small tools kit, trash bags, snacks or drinks, children’s games, address book, spare car keys, phone books for the city you are leaving and your destination.
Confirm delivery address, directions and delivery date with the movers.
Carefully supervise the move. Make sure boxes are clearly marked and your instructions are understood.
Clean the home and check entire grounds before leaving.
Check thermostat and make sure temperature is set appropriately. Make sure all windows and doors are closed and locked, and all appliances are turned off. Leave forwarding address, garage door openers and any keys, if agreed to, for the new owners or renters.
If your home is going to be vacant when you leave, make sure a relative, neighbor or real estate agent has the keys and how to contact you. Also, notify your insurance agent and police department that the home will be empty.
Check to make sure all utilities are on and working properly.
Let family members or friends know you have arrived safely. Check in with your employer and real estate agent to confirm itineraries.
Supervise moving crew on location of furniture and boxes. Begin unpacking necessary basics first – basic kitchen utensils, bath toiletries, etc.
Give the kids a job to do – let them start on their rooms. Usually, the kitchen and the kids rooms are the best to set up first, as it helps them feel at home.
