If you are like a lot of other families from Buffalo, your to-do list is so long that it’s easy to forget a few things. The truth is life is crazy, but when it comes time to move, things can get even crazier! That’s why we’ve developed the ultimate checklist for you to follow in the months and weeks leading up to your big move! It’s all a part of our mission to make your life a little easier when you are ready to get moving!
30 – 60 Days Before Moving
- Do your research and choose a moving company from Buffalo that you will trust. Take a look at their reviews and see how they stack up.
- Take a moment to inventory your belongings and important items. Consider how you will move your valuables and other difficult-to-replace items and make a plan!
- Have a garage sale to get rid of unneeded items and donate gently used items to a local charity.
- Set some time aside to locate medical, legal, dental, financial, school, and veterinarian records and organize them for safekeeping.
30 Days Before Moving
- It’s time to book your moving company! Don’t delay this step – Most reputable moving companies book up fast, and you don’t want to be left with uninsured, fly-by-night movers.
- Make a list of everything to be moved. This will help you understand the scope of your move and help to prioritize where you need the most help. Don’t forget special items like house plants and other delicate items!
- Consider insurance on some of the fragile, expensive, and/or important items you are moving to ensure they are protected.
- Start purchasing moving boxes, packing tape, and other moving supplies. Pro tip: Buy extra! You can usually return what you don’t use.
- Pick up a “Change of Address Moving Kit” from the Post Office.
- If necessary, contact your children’s school, dentist, and doctor and have their records forwarded to their new respective locations.
- Make a special folder for all of your moving expenses and charitable donations and ask your financial advisor/tax preparer if these are deductible expenses on your next tax return.
- Arrange to disconnect your current utilities and to reconnect utilities at your new location.
14 Days Before Moving
- Start packing! Slow and steady wins the race. Moving day will be here before you know it!
- Start by packing one room at a time. Make a check-list and feel accomplished as you make progress!
- Consider making a day-of itinerary and make a plan for your children and pets during your move.
- Schedule maintenance for your vehicle if necessary.
- Make sure you return any items you’ve borrowed and collect anything you have loaned out!
- Arrange farewell visits to all of your neighbors and nearby family.
- Check to see if your large appliances need to be specially prepared for moving (i.e. gas hookups, etc.).
- If your car is going to be towed, arrange for the fitting of a tow bar; some cars need special equipment.
- If necessary, make final arrangements to have a babysitter for moving day.
- Start emptying your refrigerator. Consider prioritizing perishable items and frozen goods that may be difficult to transport.
- Finish using any open cleaning supplies such as aerosols and chemicals that could be hazardous to move.
7 Days Before Moving
- Set aside suitcases and other travel bags for clothes and other important items you will need readily accessible during your move.
- Properly dispose of any flammable or toxic items.
- Takedown curtains, rods, shelves, and other hanging fixtures unless your mover has been instructed to do so, or you have included those items in the sale of your home.
- Do a test run with the items you plan to pack in your car so you make sure they fit and you are ready to go on the day of your move.
- Confirm the arrival date and time with your movers.
Day Before Moving
- Place signs in front of your house so your movers won’t disrupt traffic.
- Finish packing cosmetic items and clothes you’ll wear on the trip.
- If applicable, empty and defrost the refrigerator and freezer and let them air dry for a day.
- If emptying your refrigerator, leave the door ajar to help deodorize.
- If you live on a busy thoroughfare, request local authorities to place a “No Parking” sign.
Moving Day
- Make a final check to guarantee your appliances are ready to be moved.
- Give the driver detailed, written directions to your new address.
- After the moving truck is packed, make sure you have the appropriate payment ready.
- Pack your vacuum and other cleaning supplies last so you can reach them easily to clean your new house or apartment.
- Sign and save all copies of bills of lading.
- If you are stopping en route to your new destination, give the mover the address and telephone number of the place you can be reached.
- Before you leave, check every room, closet, and cabinet one final time.
- Don’t forget any attic and basement storage rooms if applicable.
- Check all locks on the doors and windows to secure the house.
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Where in the World is Keith’s Moving Company?
Each month, we take a look back at all of the Buffalo families and businesses that we helped move. Check it out below
Moving stats for August 2020:
Most Moves: Buffalo, NY
Furthest Move: Lancaster, NY > Lockport, NY
Most Common Move: New construction homes
Largest Move: 3,900 sq. foot house
Miles traveled: 1,900