As your personally procured moving day gets even closer, here are some other things to keep in mind:
- You will want to very clearly label and separate out those items that you want to take with you during your dity move (such as important documents, high value items - jewelry, collectibles) and those items that you moving company will be transporting for you.
- Go around and label any of the boxes that fall into the categories of "Fragile", "Do Not Load" and "Load Last" with clear, easy to read stickers.
- Now that your home is probably full of wide open spaces, it is a good time for a last minute check of 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 to get the maximum security deposit back from your landlord. If you are selling a home that you own, completing these minor repairs could save you the trouble of having last minute conditions to your closing of escrow or having to arrange for repairs once you have left the area.
- If the weather allows for it, try to mow your yard one last time to prevent it from getting overgrown and unsightly during the transition to the new owner.
- You will want to empty out, defrost and clean your refrigerator, freezer and to clean your stove at least 24-48 hours before moving them to give them a chance to air out before they are packed and loaded onto the moving truck. Try using baking soda to get rid of any odors. You can leave a container of baking soda in the refrigerator to help keep the scent fresh.
- Prepare those items you will need while your household goods are in transit. You should go ahead and complete the packing of you and your family's suitcases. You will also want to confirm travel arrangements to make sure that everything will still be on schedule.
- Make sure your certified moving consultant knows all of your new contact information, including both your address while your goods are in transit and the best number to reach you at via telephone.
- Confirm with your certified moving consultant how you will be paying for their services. Many moving companies will accept credit cards but others may require cash on delivery (COD) payment. Ensure you fully understand how payment will be handled before move day.
- If you are moving to a building with an elevator make sure the elevator will be available on your intended day and time of arrival at your destination.
- You should plan to hand carry all of your important personal documents (e.g. passport, wills, diplomas, stock certificates, etc.) and other small, high value items such as jewelry, coin collections and family photos. Make one or more clearly marked folders to help you keep these items organized. Gather keys, alarm codes, garage door openers and be prepared to hand them over to the new owner or real estate agent.
- Pack your "first night box," which should contain a couple of days of clothing a set of basic toiletries that you will need when you first arrive in your new home.
Now that you have gotten all of these details out of the way, try to plan to get a very sound night's sleep in the evening leading up to move day. The actual move day will likely prove to be physically exhausting and then upon arrival in your new residence, you will need to adjust to new surroundings and in some cases even different time zones.