Two Months Before Moving Day

Reduce the number of items that need to be moved – throw, donate, give away, or sell.

Create a portable file or binder with pockets for documenting your moving plans, saving receipts, storing estimates and quotes, writing down measurements and so on.  Attach this checklist to the front cover.

Decide whether to move, clean and make repairs yourself or hire professionals.  Call three companies to get estimates.

Gather or purchase boxes, packing materials, tape, large felt markers, scissors, bright colored labels, plastic sandwich bags (for small items), large plastic freezer bags, plastic grocery bags, a pocket knife and ropes.

Make travel arrangements: airline, hotel, car rental.  Be sure to mention that you are bringing pets, if that’s the case.

Gather all of your legal, medical, dental, financial, vehicle and insurance records in a safe and accessible place.  Gather owner’s manuals that you might need to set up computers, home theatre systems and complex appliances.  Do all of this now in case you need to order copies of missing documents.

Purchase insurance coverage for valuables.

Schedule the movers or a rental truck.