Do you know what’s even more stressful than a divorce? Moving. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Whether you’re moving apartments, neighborhoods, or states, planning ahead makes all the difference. One of the most effective ways to plan is to create a moving day checklist of tasks to do before, during, and after the move.
Keeping your tasks organized will help reduce your stress, and you’ll feel great checking off items one by one as your move-in day approaches. Whether you’re looking for a moving to New York checklist, a moving states checklist, or a general list of things to do, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn how to turn a totally unorganized, chaotic mess into a swift, effective move.
Why Use a Moving Day Checklist?
Using a moving day checklist will help you feel organized and reduce the inclination to completely panic and lose your mind. Writing down a list can help declutter your mind, allowing you to focus that mental energy more efficiently on other things. Also, it is better to encourage yourself to knock out a few to-dos here and there than to be bombarded with tasks the night before your move.
General Moving Checklist of Things to Do
Whether you’re moving to New York from out of state or to a different borough, here are a few ways to prepare.
- Set All Valuable Items Aside: Items like important documents, mobile electronics, chargers, laptops, keys, wallets, and similar items should not be packed away with everything else. Set them aside while packing and carry them in a backpack or handbag when they need transporting.
- Label and Pack Your Boxes Wisely: Stuff that isn’t used too often should be packed away until it’s needed, while everyday items like toiletries, kitchen gadgets, and clothing should be unloaded and unpacked first. Organize the moving truck sensibly to save your movers and yourself ample time, money, and headaches.
- Make a Things-to-be-Discarded Box: Set one box at the center of your home where you and the kids can throw in anything that you will not need at your new home. After you do this, you can determine whether or not you want to donate or sell the item. By getting these unnecessary items out of the way immediately, you’ll have less to pack and less to plan out. Start downsizing before you move; don’t fill the new house with a bunch of stuff you don’t plan on using.
- Place Similar Items Together: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it will help you pack effectively and stay organized.
- Have a Final Look: After all the boxes are gone, go to each room, open up each closet, and look through all the drawers to ensure that nothing gets left behind.
Complete all the steps on this general moving checklist of things to do before you’re eight weeks out from relocating. Then, use the step-by-step checklists below as you get closer to your move.
2 Months Before the Move
- Start researching moving companies and getting quotes for your move.
- Let the people closest to you (neighbors, employers, and kids’ school teachers) know about your move so that they’re aware of the potential for stress and what might be causing it.
- Gather moving supplies — boxes, tapes, markers, etc.
- Start deciding what possessions you have that you can get rid of before you move.
1 Month Before the Move
- Scope out your new home and start forming a vision for what you want it to look like once you’ve moved in. Take measurements and decide where key pieces of furniture will go.
- Request a few days off from work if you think it’s appropriate.
- Decide which moving company you’ll work with. Don’t just go with the cheapest option — cheap movers can cause you nightmares! Look at online reviews and how long the company has been in business.
2 Weeks Before the Move
- Contact the moving company you’ve decided to work with and confirm the date and time of the move.
- Contact your new landlord and confirm the move-in date and time. Ask for the keys and verify that they work before the move-in date.
- Contact utilities and service providers and let them know about your change of address. Here are a couple that you might have to contact:
- Cell phone company
- Insurance company
- Banks
- Credit card providers
- Post offices
- DMV
- Employers
- Start packing your stuff. You can use cardboard boxes or find something with a smaller ecological footprint, like Gorilla Bins or Boxup plastic bins.
- Start thinking about how you can have an almost empty fridge and freezer by your moving day.
Moving Day Checklist
- Wake up early, drink some coffee, and meditate. This is going to be a busy day! Yes, it will be stressful. Make sure you go into it with the right mindset and do everything you can to stay enthusiastic and energized.
- If you have pets or kids, think about how to keep them calm and comfortable during the move. Here are some tips for moving with pets and moving with kids.
- Lock the door behind you as you leave your old apartment.
- Give the moving crew a good tip 🙂
After You Move
- Consider leaving a review for your movers 🙂
- Contact your old landlord to arrange to get your security deposit back.
- Introduce yourself to your new neighbors.
- Host a housewarming party. Invite all your friends over to see your new digs!
Moving States Checklist
Whether you’re leaving New York or coming to the big city from out of state, here are some things you can do to get ready:
- Research Your New State: Familiarize yourself with the climate, culture, laws, and tax implications of your new state to ensure a smooth transition.
- Update Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Each state has its own requirements for driver’s licensing and vehicle registration. Check the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for specifics on your new state.
- Understand Health Insurance Changes: Health insurance plans and providers can vary significantly by state. Contact your insurance provider to discuss your move and understand your options.
- Notify Tax Agencies: Inform both your current and future state tax agencies of your move. This will help you file state taxes correctly for the year of your relocation.
- Revise Estate Planning Documents: Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney may need to be updated to comply with the laws in your new state.
- Change Your Address: Apart from the United States Postal Service, update your address with banks, credit card companies, employers, and any other relevant entities.
- Transfer School Records: If you have children, arrange for their school records to be transferred to their new school district.
- Find New Healthcare Providers: Research and choose new healthcare providers in your new state. Ask your current doctors for recommendations or referrals.
- Prepare for the Climate: Depending on where you’re moving, you might need new clothing or gear (like snow tires). Research and prepare accordingly.
Moving states can be a significant change, but it’s also a chance for new beginnings and adventures. Plan ahead with this moving states checklist to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Moving to New York Checklist
If you’re moving to New York, here are a few other things to keep in mind as you prepare for your relocation:
- Secure Your Housing: Research neighborhoods to find one that matches your lifestyle and budget. Consider proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and safety.
- Understand the Rental Market: Be prepared for a competitive real estate market, especially in NYC. Have your documents ready (ID, bank statements, letter of employment) for apartment applications.
- Budget for Cost of Living: New York is known for its high cost of living. Budget for rent, utilities, groceries, and entertainment accordingly.
- Get an MTA MetroCard: Public transportation is a way of life in New York, and an MTA MetroCard is essential for subway and bus rides.
- Familiarize Yourself with Local Laws: Understand New York-specific laws, such as recycling regulations, tenant rights, and any vehicle registration requirements if you plan to drive.
- Register to Vote: Update your voter registration to reflect your new address in New York.
- Prepare for the Weather: New York experiences all four seasons — be strategic about the time of year you move. Ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear for hot summers and cold, snowy winters.
- Connect with Local Communities: Join local online forums, social media groups, or community boards to get tips and make connections in your new area.
Remember, moving to New York is a big step, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to experience one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Get the most out of your experience by following this moving checklist for NYC.
Prepare for a Smooth Relocation with Metropolis Moving
The first way to make a move go smoothly is to use a moving day checklist. The second way is to hire a professional moving company! At Metropolis Moving, we understand the ins and outs of relocating, whether it’s across town or across states. With our expert team, you can expect efficient, reliable, and tailored moving services that cater to your needs. From packing your belongings with care to ensuring timely delivery, we’re here to make your transition as seamless as possible.
Ready to experience a stress-free move? Get your free moving quote today! Our friendly staff is here to assist you every step of the way. Trust Metropolis Moving to turn the chaos of moving into a simple, smooth process.
