Moving Checklist

If you are ready to move in the Central Maine area, this handy moving checklist will help make your move as smooth as possible. Just follow the checklist below step-by-step! Also, feel free to contact us if you need help selling your current Central Maine home—we are here to help!

Two Months Before Move

• Decide if you’re going to hire movers or "do-it-yourself.”
• If hiring, contact moving companies in your area to get quotes of what the cost will be. Then finalize your decision in writing with the company. Make sure to check to see if the movers you like are on the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), which offers a Certified Mover Program for moving companies throughout the United States that have agreed to follow a code of conduct. Here are a few Central Maine moving companies to check out: Central Maine Moving and Storage Co., Allied Movers and Van Lines, U Haul, Fox & Ginn Movers, Liberty Bell Moving and Storage or D & J Movers.
• If going D.I.Y for your move, begin to stock up on necessary supplies and start picking away as soon as possible. 
• Visually prepare or design a floor plan for your furniture in your new home.
• Create a list for inventory of your belongings. This is helpful in preparing a garage or moving sale.
• Keep all of your paperwork concerning the move in one file, so nothing is lost or misplaced.
• Transfer all school records for your children.
• Finalize your decision on a mover.
• If time permits, prepare your new home for arrival.
• Consider your children in the move. Plan ahead and visit our informative moving with children guide.

One Month Before Move

• Change your address.
• Change you address with the IRS.
• Make any travel arrangements where you will need an airline, train, hotel, bus or car rental.
• Research the area into which you will be moving for clubs, civic organizations and churches, so that you can change your membership.
• Contact medical and dental offices to receive records, asking these professionals for referrals and continuing prescriptions.
• If necessary, establish a new checking account.
• Research local laws about home-based businesses and business licenses if you own or operate your own business.
• Arrange for your pets to be transported.
• Use up or finish and discard household items so that there is less to pack and move.

Two Weeks Before Move

• Forward your magazines and newspapers to your new address.
• Contact your utilities and change your service to your new address.
• Organize those helping you on the day of the move.
• Confirm all travel reservations you have made.
• If moving appliances, make sure they are inspected before the move.
• Pack all clean clothing.
• If necessary, close your bank accounts, making sure you have ample cash for the move. The remainder of the funds should be transferred to your new bank.
• Keep important documents and valuables close at hand during the move.
• Prepare for the move of any infant or small children.
• Review your insurance policy for coverage during your move.
• Provide relatives with your travel information.
• Defrost your freezer and refrigerator.

Moving Day

• Do a final walk through of the home to make sure all of your belongings have been removed.
• Be sure to take control of all personal items that are valuable or important to you during the move.
• You may want to purchase travelers checks instead of cash during the move.

Moving from one home to another is an exciting life event. Keep in mind that no matter how much planning you’ve done, things can occasionally go wrong. It’s important to take a deep breath and try to look for solutions. Know that soon enough you’ll be safe and sound in your new home—ready to start the unpacking process!