When moving, people often forget certain items or tasks that can make the process more stressful. Here’s a comprehensive list of things people commonly forget to take or do:
1. Packing & Inventory
- Essential documents: Passports, birth certificates, Social Security cards, insurance documents, tax papers, and legal documents.
- Items in storage: Ensure that everything in storage (e.g., basement, attic, garage) is packed and accounted for.
- Old cleaning supplies: Vacuum cleaners, mops, and other cleaning tools often get overlooked.
- Small electronics & chargers: Cell phone chargers, computer cables, power strips, headphones.
- Prescription medications: Often forgotten in the rush to pack, be sure to pack these and prescriptions for refills.
- Spare keys: Sometimes keys to locks, gates, or garages are left behind.
- Sentimental items: Photos, keepsakes, or personal items that hold sentimental value may be packed last or misplaced.
- Outdoor gear: Lawn equipment, patio furniture, garden tools, bikes, or sporting equipment.
- Valuables: Jewelry, rare collectibles, and cash should be packed separately and securely.
- Food in the pantry/fridge/freezer: It’s easy to forget to clean out perishables before moving.
- Home decor and artwork: Many forget framed photos, wall art, and decorative pieces.
- Cleaning products: For the final cleaning of the old home.
- Tool kit: A set of tools for disassembling furniture or fixing last-minute issues during the move.
- Clothing and shoes: Sometimes people forget seasonal or out-of-season clothing stored in drawers, closets, or under beds.
2. Pre-Move Tasks
- Notify utilities: Cancel or transfer utilities such as gas, electricity, water, internet, and cable services.
- Change of address: Notify the post office, banks, insurance companies, and other important institutions.
- Cancel or transfer subscriptions: Magazines, food delivery services, or gym memberships.
- Schedule movers: Confirm the date and time with the moving company, or recruit friends/family if you’re doing it yourself.
- Make sure pets are taken care of: Arrange transportation or boarding for pets, and make sure pet supplies (food, medications, toys) are packed.
- Arrange for childcare: If you have young children, arrange for them to be occupied on moving day.
- Reserve elevators and parking: For apartment moves, book elevator time and parking spots in advance.
- Disassemble large furniture: Things like bed frames, bookshelves, and desks should be disassembled before the move.
- Declutter before packing: Use the opportunity to donate, sell, or throw out items you no longer need.
- Transfer home security system: If applicable, ensure your home security company is notified and either deactivates or transfers the system to the new home.
- Get moving supplies: Boxes, tape, packing material, furniture blankets, and dollies.
3. During the Move
- Clear paths: Make sure that paths to and from the moving truck are clear of obstacles.
- Final clean-up: Wipe down appliances, counters, and leave the home in good condition.
- Keep a “moving day essentials” bag: Include a change of clothes, toiletries, snacks, water, and anything else needed for the first night in your new home.
- Keep contact details handy: Have phone numbers for movers, landlords, or anyone who can assist if there are any last-minute issues.
- Secure fragile items: Ensure fragile items are properly packed in protective materials (bubble wrap, foam, etc.).
4. Arriving at the New Home
- Inspect the new place: Before unpacking, ensure everything works—check plumbing, electrical outlets, and appliances.
- Check for pests: Look for any signs of pests in the new space.
- Make sure utilities are set up: Verify that water, electricity, gas, internet, and cable are working.
- Unpack the essentials first: Start with necessary items such as bedding, bathroom supplies, kitchen utensils, and clothing.
- Meet with neighbors: If applicable, introduce yourself to new neighbors.
- Take care of immediate repairs: Fix any minor issues or ensure safety (i.e., change locks, install childproofing).
- Know where things are: Label boxes clearly so you know where things are going and avoid unnecessary searching later.
- Security check: Make sure all windows and doors are locked and that the house is secure.
5. Post-Move
- Register your car: Update the address on your vehicle’s registration.
- Register to vote: If you’ve moved to a new area, update your voting registration.
- Settle in: Take time to unpack, set up your furniture, and make the space feel like home.
- Update insurance policies: Ensure your car, health, life, and home insurance reflect the new address.
Remembering these steps and items can help ensure a smoother, more organized move.
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