Loading
What Should You Do When Relocating?
When anyone is moving or relocating the “to do” list can begin to grow to epic proportions. Everything from packing and moving to finding a new home and settling in must be considered. There are, however, a few basic considerations that can help to keep the to do list from taking over.
1. Create a master calendar – if you know your moving date, or the date you close on your new home, then you have a good “starting point”. Use this date and work backwards to ensure you leave enough time to make all necessary arrangements. This calendar should serve as your basis for all scheduling decisions and will really be a lifesaver as the moving day grows near.
2. Consider “shut off” dates – just because you think you will be moving out completely on a certain day, don’t let the utilities get shut off until you know for sure that you will not need lights, water or heat. This is a very common mistake and many people have to scramble to make it through a day or two of moving without a bathroom or lights.
3. Take a day to go over the facts – if you are using the services of a moving company it is important to take a day ahead of the actual moving day to review everything they’ll need. For example, can they park their vehicle at the curb? Will you need to make arrangements for them to “shuttle” some items to the van? It is also a good idea to review your family’s schedules leading up to the moving day to ensure everyone is on the same page.
4. A relocation kit – quite often people and families relocating forget that they may have a day or two, or even more, where they cannot access a majority of their belongings. For this reason, many relocation experts recommend that each member of the family slowly assemble a relocation box or kit for themselves that will contain their essential items, including clothing and medications, but also stuffed animals, journals and even chargers for electronics.
5. Bills and mail – don’t begin forwarding bills, mail and other communications too far ahead. In fact, most postal workers recommend writing down your actual moving date as the day the forwarding services begin. This way there is no confusion and no lost mail.
6. Scope out the new neighborhood – many people and families find it very reassuring to take a day, if possible, to scope out their new neighborhood or town. They find a few restaurants and services and make sure that they’ll be able to adjust quickly.