Let's face it. Americans stress out
too much as it is and we would rather not have to deal with another
burr under the saddle. But unfortunately most of us, at one time
or another, have to go through the ordeal of moving. We moan and
groan at the thought of relocating. And rightly so! It's physically
and emotionally exhausting to pack one's life into a bunch of boxes
and move to a new place -- even if it is only three blocks away.
That's why it helps to do some careful planning ahead of time to
make things go smoothly before, during and after the big move.
First things first
You need to decide whether
you'll be hiring a moving company or whether you're going to take
on the job yourself and how the move will be financed. Depending
on how you'll be moving, you should do some research on moving companies
or on truck rentals.
Check with state regulatory agencies
to be sure the firm is not a "fly by night" company --
particularly for large household moves. It's usually a good idea
to stick with "brand name" companies that stand behind
their reputations. Even then, you may want to check with the local
Better Business Bureau, or State Office of Consumer Affairs and
see what kind of complaint history the company has.
Make an appointment with the moving
company for an estimate of what the move will cost. Also check what
form of payment is acceptable -- many firms don't take personal
checks, for instance. Ask for the estimate in writing.
You may want to go over any moving
insurance policies that are offered by the company for coverage
during transit. If the company doesn't offer insurance, consider
purchasing an outside insurance policy -- you never know what can
happen.
Before you move, open a checking account
in your new location.
Try to schedule your move so you arrive
on a weekday when banks, utility companies, telephone companies,
and other businesses will be open.
If you need to, make arrangements for storage at your destination.
Check with your moving or truck rental company about any special
deals they may offer or referrals. If possible, ask for a tour of
the storage area and location so you can be sure your possessions
will be safe, secure and easy to get to.
Paperwork
Keep in mind that some moving
expenses may be tax-deductible if your relocation is job-related.
Get in writing what part of the moving process your employer will
be responsible for and what will be expected from you.
Organize all important documents,
i.e., auto licensing and registration, insurance papers, birth certificates,
wills, deeds, stock, pets' records, etc.
If you can, get a list of referrals when retrieving your medical
and dental records. Also obtain copies of transcripts from schools,
and records from lawyers and accountants.
Obtain and fill out a mail-forwarding form from your post office
when you get your new mailing address. Let your credit card companies,
subscriptions and insurance providers know of your address change
and at what date the change will become effective.
Close local accounts (bank, library,
video, health club, newspaper delivery) and empty your safety deposit
box. Before you close your bank account, make sure all outstanding
checks have cleared and that your account in your new location is
open and you are able to draw upon your funds.
Packing
Weeks before the move, start
using up perishables in your refrigerator and freezer and try to
use up cleaning supplies. Also, start packing things that you won't
be needing in the next month.
Start selling or giving away household items or houseplants you're
not moving. You might want to plan a yard sale or set aside items
for charity.
Take an inventory of everything you
are moving. Furniture and other valuable items should be inspected
and photographed before the move.
Number and identify all your boxes;
include the total number of boxes you have after you've finished.
Packing by room will make unpacking easier once you arrive at your
destination. Keep a list of the number and description of the contents
in each box. While you're at it you may also want to make a master
list of your possessions for your files.
Pack a box of essential items you
will need during and right after the trip. For example: first-aid
kit, medicines, toiletries, coffee and coffee pot, small tool set,
a can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a couple of pans,
and paper towels. Pack the box in the moving truck or in your car
last so it will be easy to get to.
If you are hiring a moving company, make sure you give them clear
directions to the new location. If you can, supply the movers with
emergency numbers so they can reach you if a problem arises.
Utilities & Appliances
Defrost your freezer and refrigerator a couple of days before
the move.
Special care should be taken when
packing appliances. If you're moving them yourself, you may want
to ask a professional for tips or directions on how to pack and
move the larger appliances like the refrigerator and the oven.
Check your utility meters (gas, electric,
water) and log them. You probably want to keep all utilities (including
phone lines) connected through moving day. If you're moving locally
you may want to keep your water and electricity connected a few
days after the move so you can go back and clean up.
After Arrival
When the movers arrive at your new
home or apartment, make sure that the furniture and boxes are placed
in the right rooms and that all your boxes have been delivered.
Check furniture, appliances, pictures,
etc. for any damage during the move and make notes on any damage.
If there are any problems, ask the
movers for a form to declare damage.
Obtain from the movers the actual
cost of the move, and compare the price with the estimated cost,
noting any discrepancies. Don't sign anything until you have personally
inspected everything and any damage has been declared.
Moving doesn't have to be a "nightmare."
Just remember -- the more you procrastinate the harder it will be
to keep the stress level down. Plan ahead and give yourself a break.
Believe it or not, moving can be fun and exciting. It could be your
chance to see new things, explore new horizons and sometimes start
a whole new life.
