Hot Tips for a
Successful Moving Schedule

MOVING

Preparation results in a worry-free move. Whether you decide to coordinate your own move or utilize the Relocation Relief services of McMillan & Company Professional Organizing, it is vital to begin the planning early. At least eight (yes, 8) weeks before Moving Day, begin to set-up the goals and a timetable for this project. There's a lot to be done each week. According to an article in Consumer Reports (8/90), the process -- and it is a process -- of preparing for a move should be in accomplished in "stages" to eliminate stress.

EIGHT WEEKS BEFORE

• This is when you should bring in a Professional Organizing company to begin helping to coordinate the project and organize your possessions!
• Mover - select the best (not necessarily the least expensive). Ask for referrals. Request at least three (3) estimates. Obtain specifics on insurance, packing, loading, delivery and claim policies.
• Transfer - all medical and education records when moving to a different area.
• Floor plan - draw a diagram of your new office or home to decide what to take, what to get rid of and where everything should be moved.
  

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE

• Closets - sort clothing, shoes and other personal belongings. Toss and/or donate all unwanted items to charities. If you're so inclined, have a garage sale. Professional Organizers are terrific help with this phase of the project.
• Moving Supplies - purchase boxes, tape, twine, labels and other essentials.
• Packing - if using mover, schedule packing for one or two days before the truck is loaded. If you are doing the packing, begin today with pieces that are not frequently used (extra supplies, holiday decorations, etc.). Don't use boxes that are too large and don't overload boxes.
• Carpets, furniture and drapes - clean and repair if necessary.
• Insurance - examine your Contents Policy to be certain your belongings are covered during this move. If uncertain, call your insurance agent.
• Change-Of-Address Notices - obtain from the post office or print your own. (It will take a least a month or more for magazine publishers and other businesses to update their records.) Send second notices if necessary.
  

THREE WEEKS BEFORE

• Reservations - schedule motel, etc. if necessary. The house or office will be a mess for 2-3 days, at least.
• Utilities, telephones, etc. at new location - establish cancellation and installation.
• Car registration, insurance and other personal records - gather for your move.
  

TWO WEEKS BEFORE

• Bank accounts and creditors - transfer and advise of your new address.
• Pets and houseplants - make preparations with mover. Some may require special handling.
• Local newspaper - cancel delivery or notify of your new address.
• Doctors and Dentist - request your records if you're leaving the area.
  

TWO DAYS BEFORE

• Cash and Traveler's Checks - for travel expenses and to pay mover.
• Take with you - jewelry, vital documents, money and valuable items.
• Refrigerators and freezers - defrost and dry prior to move.
• Possessions packed - by mover or Professional Organizing Service (or do it yourself). It's important to note that if you pack something (not moving company) and the item is broken during the move, the mover's insurance does not cover that damage.
  

MOVING DAY

• Be available - for guidance and to answer questions from movers and organizers.
• Do not lift or move heavy items - the mover is prepared to do this.
• Agreement/Contract with Mover - keep until after delivery is made, fees are paid and claims (if any) are paid.
  

DELIVERY DAY

• Be available - for guidance and to answer questions from movers and organizers.
• For interstate moves - Federal law requires payment to driver before your possessions are unloaded.
• All moving companies require payment immediately when trucks are unloaded. But don't write the check yet!
• Inspect all your possessions (including breakables, furniture, pictures and frames) for cracks or broken areas. Indicate any damages on moving company's inventory sheet(s) before signing the forms. This is required in order to file a claim.
• Some moving companies will pickup flattened boxes. Ask if they will give credit for undamaged boxes. Most will "loan" wardrobe boxes for moves.
  

AFTER MOVING DAY

• Here again, this is when you will benefit from the help of a Professional Organizing company to unpack, organize your possessions and put everything away (give them the right home the first day)!
• Have a special dinner, spend the night in a hotel ... and get a good night's sleep.
• Be patient ... everything will be better that ever before ... and enjoy your new place!!!!

Copyright © Donna D. McMillan. All rights reserved. No part of these articles may be reproduced in any way without written permission by author.
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