Are you planning on moving this year? Successful moving happens when you plan ahead. Having a moving checklist can help you prepare for every step of the process. Here are our top eight items to check off your list to help your move be as stress-free as possible.
- Choose a DIY or Professional Move
One of the first things you should do is figure out if you want to move yourself or hire a moving company to help you. It’s important to choose the method that is right for you. Your budget plays a big role in this decision. You should also consider things like how far you’re moving, how much stuff is being moved and how much moving experience you have. There are pros and cons to each method. A “do-it-yourself” move might be more affordable, but you’ll have to do more labor and you’re responsible for driving. Hiring movers might be the more expensive choice, but you’ll have to do less labor and the responsibility is on the moving company and not you. You’ll know what’s best for your situation, so take the time to figure out your moving method as soon as possible.
- Move Your Internet Services
Internet is one of the things we can’t live without. Once you know your new address, it’s time to get your internet services set up there. Did you know that you can transfer your All West services to a new address if you’re moving somewhere in our service area? No need to cancel them in one city just to sign up for them in another! Notify us ASAP to let us know you’re moving and want to move your All West services with you. This will put you in the queue for installation at your new place. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- If you’ve been an All West customer for over two years, we’ll have you fill out a new application to make sure your information in our system is up-to-date.
- We charge a $50 install free to move your service because we must send one of our technicians out to do the installation.
- You’ll also have to pay a drop fee if your new home hasn’t had All West services before. We can give you an accurate quote when you call us about your move.
We provide services in many areas in Utah and Wyoming. Give us a call (866.255.9378) to verify service availability at a specific address. If you’re moving somewhere All West doesn’t service, we’re sad to see you go! Check out AllConnect or BroadbandNow to find what internet service providers are available in your new area.
- Transfer Utilities
At least two weeks before your move, you should prepare to transfer your other utilities. Utilities include water, natural gas, electricity, trash and other services available in your area. If you’re staying in the same area, you will probably be able to transfer your services to your new address. If you’re moving to a new area, research what utilities are available in your new area or check with your property manager or real estate agent. Some companies allow online utility transfers, but if that’s not available you’ll have to call and plan the transfer. Make sure you know your move-in date so you can schedule the utility transfers and set-ups accordingly.
- Clear Out Clutter
Before you start packing, you need to take steps to prepare to pack. One of the best things you can do is to clear out the clutter in your home. Take it one room at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed. With the items you want to get rid of, you can plan a yard sale, sell items online (if you have time) or donate to thrift stores or local organizations. There’s no use in packing up something you’ll get rid of after you move. Remember, the less you have to pack, the less you have to move!
- Update and Change Your Address
Start updating your accounts and records with your new address before you move so you don’t forget any of them. Don’t accidentally send your Amazon order to your old home after you move! Change your address with your bank, credit card, IRS and any benefits you receive. If you’re a frequent online shopper, it’s a good idea to delete your old address and save your new one for easy checkout. It’s also important to let the post office know you’re moving and change your address with them. This will let them forward your mail to your new address. The Official USPS Change-of-Address process is simple, and you can learn more about it here.
- Pack a Suitcase for Intermittent Time
With how hectic life can become as your moving day gets closer, we suggest packing a suitcase for the intermittent time. This is the time between the packing and unpacking stage. You might be driving for a few days, staying in a hotel or just living with your life packed up in boxes. Pack a suitcase (or two) with the essentials you’ll need for 1-2 weeks while your life is in moving limbo. Things like clothes, medications, toiletries, items for your family members and important documents should be stored so they don’t get packed by accident. Your suitcase should contain necessities that you want to keep with you.
- Pack in Advance
If you want less stress for your moving day, pack in advance. Procrastinating packing will only cause more stress on you when it comes to moving out of your house. If you wait until the last minute, there’s a chance you won’t be able to pack efficiently. You want your items to be safe and secure as they make the journey to your new place. Dedicate time to go through each room in your home. Make sure to clearly label boxes so you know where they go and what’s inside. Check out these moving hacks that will help you save time, space and money when you pack up your belongings.
- Set and Stick to a Timeline
Along with packing in advance, it’s also important to set a timeline and stick to it. This ensures you won’t procrastinate too much and feel overwhelmed. Give yourself deadlines for packing, unpacking and any miscellaneous tasks. Having a timeline for the packing process will help you get everything that isn’t a necessity out of the way first while having an unpacking deadline will keep you from living out of boxes for longer than necessary. Start by planning at least one or two months before the moving date and organize your timeline into week-long phases. This ensures you’ll have everything organized to make your move more seamless.
Using this checklist will help you feel prepared for your move. It’s a very stressful process whether you’re moving down the street or to a whole new state. All West wishes you the best of luck in your new adventures.