What To Do Months Before Moving Day

If you’re staring down the barrel of an impending move, you might be teetering on the edge of panic. Take a deep breath. Relocating is indeed a massive undertaking, but like any monumental task, it becomes infinitely more manageable when broken down into bite-sized pieces. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide a year-long roadmap to a seamless transition to your new home, covering everything from decluttering and researching moving companies to handling school records and settling into your new environment.

Starting Early: The Two-Month Lead-up to D-Day

Many would argue that you can never start preparing too early for a move, and we’re inclined to agree. When you have about two months to go, it’s the perfect time to lay the groundwork. Specifically, you’ll want to focus on three key areas: simplifying your life by decluttering, vetting moving companies, and dealing with family-specific considerations like your children’s school records.

Declutter, But Make It Systematic

Decluttering isn’t just about making room; it’s about freeing yourself from the shackles of needless possessions. A purge now saves you the double trouble of moving items you’ll ultimately get rid of later. But here’s the thing: effective decluttering isn’t done on a whim—it requires a strategy. Tackle it room-by-room to avoid overwhelming yourself.

For example, let’s talk about the garage, often a black hole of forgotten items. It’s not just about throwing things away; it’s about categorizing them. Create four separate categories: Keep, Sell, Donate, and Trash. This process isn’t just an exercise in elimination; it’s an opportunity to reassess what you value. Plus, by selling or donating, you’re contributing to a greater cause or making some extra money, both of which can ease the financial burden of moving.

Choosing a Moving Company

You’ve probably heard horror stories about rogue movers, who quote a reasonable price only to demand more halfway through the move. It’s enough to keep you up at night, but the solution lies in rigorous research. Start by seeking recommendations from friends and reading online reviews. But don’t stop there. Take the time to call each recommended company and ask specific questions: Do they have a US Department of Transportation number? What kind of liability coverage do they offer?

One pro tip: ensure you get an in-person estimate, not just a phone quote. Companies like Agility Van Lines will offer this service, providing you with a detailed assessment of the cost based on your specific needs. This estimate becomes your financial blueprint for the move, so keep it handy and refer back to it to hold your movers accountable.

Get Organized: The Secret Weapon in Your Relocation Arsenal

As you gather information, your instinct might be to stuff it all in a drawer and promise yourself you’ll sort it out later. Resist that temptation. A physical or digital folder that holds all your estimates, correspondence, and a running inventory of items to be moved can be a lifesaver.

Think of this folder as the command center for your move. It can include color-coded dividers for each company you’re considering, pockets for receipts, and even a timeline checklist to guide you through the process. Essentially, it’s your go-to source for anything move-related, acting as a consolidated, organized reference that can ease the decision-making process and decrease stress.

School Records: The Forgotten Link in a Smooth Transition

If you’re a parent, amidst the hullabaloo of moving, it’s easy to overlook the academic implications for your children. Schools require ample time to process records and coordinate with the new educational institution. Start this process two months ahead, at least. Contact the school’s administrative offices to inform them of your upcoming move and ask about the required protocols for transferring records. Remember, your child can’t be enrolled in their new school without these documents, making this a crucial step.

Your Most Reliable Ally in the Moving Saga

When you’re uprooting your life to relocate, having a trustworthy partner to assist with the logistical complexities can be a game-changer. Agility Van Lines has garnered years of expertise in facilitating smooth transitions for families. Whether you’re downsizing to a cozy apartment or expanding into a suburban mansion, we offer bespoke moving solutions tailored to your unique needs. To jumpstart your moving process with zero stress, call us today at 800-756-4340 for a no-obligation quote.