Once you’re packed and ready to go, you’ve got those last minute things to do like checking all the closets and cabinets and other spots to be sure you’ve packed everything. The day before your move, check all those spots and pack up the things that you’ve been using up to that day. Make sure that your big items like appliances and furniture are ready to go. If you’re moving yourself or if your moving company’s not going to wrap or cover your furniture, then that’s one thing to add to your list the day prior to moving.
If you have a moving company, be sure to check and complete any paperwork necessary. Be sure to supervise while your items are being loaded until the last box is on the truck. Double check to be sure you aren’t leaving anything and that windows are closed and doors are locked before you leave. As things are unloaded at your new house, you’ll want to be sure to check your belongings as things are being unloaded. Check your boxes and other items to be sure that they’re in good condition and bring anything that’s damaged to the attention of the movers right away.
Be sure to unpack as soon as possible so that you can identify anything that might have been damaged during the course of your move and report it to the moving company. Based upon your contract with them there may be a limited amount of time that you have to report any losses or damages, so make sure you are aware of the time frame.
Start unpacking the things that you need most: linens, toiletry items, etc. and get those things put away. You may also want to unpack the kitchen items first to make life easy. If your household is anything like mine, food is at the top of the list as far as necessity. Not to mention that you don’t want to spend a large amount of money on eating in restaurants or carry out.
As you unpack everything, keep the boxes and other materials that can be used again, give them to someone to use or recycle them. For space sake, break the boxes down so that they’re flat and store easily and don’t take up so much room. Be sure to keep your paper work and all of your receipts from your move in one spot. Add all of those items to your moving file and keep it handy for filing your tax return for that year. Don’t forget your final items like checking to be sure the utilities are turned off at your old home. Be sure that your forwarding order has been received to be sure that you get your mail and change your address with the department of motor vehicles and any other institutions that you didn’t notify prior to your move.
Finally, and most importantly, enjoy your new home!