Your Moving Timeline - Part 3

One Week Out

The final week leading up to your move can be the most nerve-wracking time for most people. With some advance preparation, it needn't be an ordeal. We won't go so far as to say you're going to have the time of your life, but you can reduce the headaches down to a manageable level. Here are a few things to keep in mind and put on your master to-do list as you move into the home stretch.

Get everyone's bags packed.

You should try to target having all of your main items packed for the truck at least a couple of days before the actual moving date. This way, the last few days can be put aside to make sure family members have individual suitcases with several days worth of clothing packed to take along with you.

Make sure you've refilled your prescriptions

Running out of any medications you take shouldn't be something for you to worry about as the big move draws near. You'll want to ensure you've got enough of your prescriptions to last through moving day and into the first week or so of settling into your new place.

The Final Few Days Prior

Make sure everyone's on the same page

Now is the time to do the proverbial "synchronize your watches" maneuver with your moving company. Confirm the time of their team's arrival and that they have precise directions to your new residence. It's also important to make sure they've got contact information for you such as your cell number, and maybe that of a backup person in case of emergency. Get the best contact info for your moving team as well.

Clean out and defrost the freezer

If you're taking your fridge along to your new home, don't wait until the last minute to clean it out and get it defrosted. This should ideally be done twenty-four hours ahead of time at a minimum.

Get the payment arrangements completed

If you've not taken care of paying the moving company via credit card, don't forget to plan ahead for getting a cashier's check or money order. You may also want to consider having some cash on hand to tip the moving crew for doing a great job (generally 10% - 15% of the fee, or up to $100 each for particularly difficult moves).

The Day of the Move

Confirm your stuff is getting loaded onto the right truck

It may sound a little crazy, but it's a good idea to check the USDOT number on the side of the truck is a match for the paperwork you have from your estimate. It's not common, but scams can happen.

Inventory

Prior to their departure, make sure your movers have you sign the inventory list and bill of lading and give you a copy for your records.

We'll see you at your new home!