Checklist - 1 Week Before Moving Day
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There is no time to waste as the big day is right around the corner. You have no reason to panic as long as you stick to your plan and take care of the things you need to do and then have enough time to get a good night's sleep before moving day.
As time is of the essence at this point, take care of some final details:
- Have all of your important personal documents — passport, wills, diplomas, stock certificates, etc. — and other small valuable items such as jewelry, coin collections and family photos in a safe place. Create clearly marked folders to help you keep these items organized and hand-carry them with you.
- Mark any of the boxes that fall into the categories of 'Fragile,' 'Do Not Load' and 'Load Last' with clear, easy to read stickers.
- Collect all your keys, alarm codes and garage door openers and place them in a folder so you can be prepared to hand them over to the new home owner or real estate agent.
- Type up clear directions to your new home for your moving company.
- Mow your yard one last time to prevent it from becoming overgrown and unsightly during the transition to the new owner.
- Now that your residence is probably full of open areas, do a final check to see if there are any minor repairs that might be needed before you leave your home. If you rent, you may be able to make small fixes that will help you get your security deposit back from your landlord. If you're selling a home, finishing these minor repairs could save you the trouble of dealing with unresolved problems to your closing or having to deal with repairs once you have left the area.
- Empty out, defrost and clean your refrigerator, freezer and stove at least 24 hours before moving them so they can air out before they are packed and loaded into the moving truck.
- Prepare items you will need while your household goods are in transit. Finish packing your suitcases and confirm travel arrangements.
- Make sure your moving company representative or van line agent has your new contact information while your goods are in transit, including your new address and a phone number to call you.
- Reconfirm the payment method for your moving services with you moving company or van line. Most professional moving companies will accept credit cards but others may require cash on delivery (COD) payment. Plan to have some cash available for tips, which usually range from $20 to $50 per crew member.
- Reconfirm the insurance and valuation coverage that you have selected with your moving company or van line agent.
- If you're moving to or from a building with an elevator, make sure it will be available on your moving day and time of arrival at your new home.
- If you have a locker at a health club, be sure to remove all of your personal items.
- Pick up any dry cleaning or laundry items and return any rented videos and library books.
- Pack your 'first night in your new home box,' which should contain enough clothing for at least several days and a set of basic toiletries that you will need when you arrive in your new home.
- Plan for the likelihood that your household items may arrive a day or two late if you're moving long distance.
- Try to get a good night's sleep on the last night before your move. Moving day will be physically demanding, and you will need to have enough energy for the entire day.
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