Getting Organized for Your Move – Move; Step One

Let’s face it, having to move is stressful.  Whether you are moving from Beverly Hills to Brentwood or Calabasas to Costa Mesa the process is still the same.  Taking an organized approach can save you time, money and a lot of stress and aggravation.

Planning is the key.  Here are some tasks you can do ahead of time that will help keep you organized for your upcoming move….

1. Hire a moving company

Most moving companies will offer a free quote.  I recommend you get at least 3 quotes from moving companies.  Be sure to ask whether or not the quote is binding.  Here is a comprehensive list of questions to ask when interviewing movers.

2. Transfer Utilities

You will need to make sure that the utilities in your current home are disconnected as well as setting up service in your new home.  A lot of this can be done online which will save you time.  Make sure to keep a written log as you go to ensure accuracy and check off when each task is completed.

3. Change Your Address

Thanks to the internet you can now handle this moving task quickly and effectively by completing a change of address form online.  You also have an option of filling out a change of address card from the post office. You’ll have a choice of whether your move is temporary or permanent.  Choose accordingly.

Be sure to notify important people that your address has changed, such as:

• banks
• magazine subscriptions
• newspaper subscriptions
• doctors offices
• schools
• employers
• credit card companies
• family and friends
• along with Aunt Sally so you don’t miss out on the annual birthday check!

4. Consume Perishables

Now is time to start cooking all of those and frozen foods you have been holding onto ‘just in case’.  The less items in the fridge and freezer at moving time the better.  If you have extra time, go through your pantry and toss all items that are expired, not sealed properly and stale.  This will leave you less to do at packing time.

5. Protect Your Pets

Have new pet Identification collars ready for move day and change accordingly.  If your animals have any kind of tracking devise on like a chip, make sure to notify the company of your new address.  If your furry friends are going to be spending time outside, make sure their area is properly fenced and free of anything dangerous before moving.  I recommend having your animals stay somewhere else on move day to ensure their safety and alleviate as much stress as possible on them.

6. Change Your Locks

Have a locksmith scheduled as soon as possible to ensure that your new home is safe and sound.

Tackling these tasks early will allow you to focus on what lies ahead…packing, purging and a lot of decision making!

This is the first in a series of posts on how to relocate with ease. Be sure to come back for more, or follow me 0n Facebook or Twitter to get all kinds of organization ideas!