Moving can feel like a tornado of tasks that must be completed before the moving truck pulls up to your door. Aside from partnering with the best Chicago movers, there are other ways to ensure your move is as stress-free as possible. Keeping a moving checklist will keep you organized and help you remember all of the many projects that must be done before you start the journey to your new home.
The staff at Pickens Kane wants to give you a jumpstart on your move by providing this moving checklist. Copy it, print it out, and hang it on your fridge to help you keep an eye on how you’re progressing as moving day approaches!
Moving Checklist Countdown
Two Months Before Moving Day
Start Purging
You probably don’t need all of your stuff. You probably don’t even want all of your stuff. A move is a great time to purge all the things you never use.
Hire a Moving Company
Moving companies in Chicago are often reserved well in advance. That’s why it’s important to reserve your mover as soon as possible. Pickens Kane can handle all of your moving and storage needs. Contact us for a free moving estimate!
Organize Records and Important Documents
Gather important documents and put them in a small bag or briefcase. Keep that with you during the move rather than putting it on the moving truck. Gather:
· Passports
· School records
· Pet vaccination records
· Birth certificates
· Social security cards
One Month Before Moving Day
Decide If Your Furniture Will Work in the New Place
That gorgeous sectional that your entire family can sprawl on at once might not fit in your new home. Get measurements so you won’t bother paying to move items that aren’t going to work.
Submit Change of Address
Take care of the change of address with the post office and notify family of friends. It’s also a good idea to notify those you do business with of the change, so that you won’t have to wait the extra time it takes for the post office to process mail that goes to the old address.
Talk to Your Doctor about Extra Prescriptions
If anyone in your home (including pets!) takes medication on a regular basis, ask the doctor or vet for at least an extra month’s worth before your move. This will give you time to make an appointment with your new doctor without risking the chance of running out.
Start Packing
If you’re doing some of the packing yourself, rather than opting for full-service moving, then now is a good time to start. Set aside a designated spot in your home for stacking boxes. Start with holiday décor, rarely used kitchen appliances, and out-of-season clothing. If you start now, there will less stress as the day approaches.
Reserve Elevator
If you live in or are moving to a building with an elevator, reserve the moving elevator for your moving day.
Two Weeks Before Moving Day
Confirm Reservation with Your Chicago Mover
Firm up the time they’ll arrive and make any last minute arrangements with your moving specialist.
Shop Smart
When grocery shopping, only by what you need for the next few days. Go easy on perishable items and anything you won’t be able to pack.
Clean Out the Pantry
Go through your pantry and decide what food, if any, you plan to bring. If you’ll have unopened, non-perishable items that you don’t want, contact a local food pantry about making a donation.
Call Utility Companies
Contact utilities to turn off and on service as applicable. In addition to gas, water, and electric; don’t forget cable, lawn service, and home security.
Pet Daycare or Boarding
Even if your pets will be making the relocation in your car, it’s still a good idea to board them on moving day. Doors will be left open, and it’s easy for dogs or cats to slip out during all the commotion.
One Week Before Moving Day
Pack a Bag to Keep with You
Pack a bag with medications, IDs, and a change of clothes for each member of your family. While it’s unlikely you’ll have any problems with your shipment, having a bag of essentials with you is a good idea.
Clean Appliances
If you’re taking appliances with you, you’ll want to clean them thoroughly before they are loaded on to the truck. This includes draining oil and gas from lawn equipment, and emptying the fridge.
Moving Day!
Watch Out for Scammers
When the moving truck show up, be sure that the USDOT number on the truck matches the number on the estimate you were given. If you have any doubts, call your moving specialist before a single box is loaded.
Be Sure to Get a Copy of the Inventory List
Keep the list with you during the move.
We hope this moving checklist will help you stay organized and on track in the days leading up to your move! Pickens Kane is one of the top moving companies in Chicago. Learn more about our moving and storage services by chatting with a relocation specialist. You can also fill out our online form to receive a free, no-obligation estimate!
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