Planning a Stress-Free Move: 6 Month Timeline

Are you in the process of planning a move? If so, you're likely wondering how much time you should allow for each item on your checklist. The key to a stress-free move is to start planning as early as possible. Use our 6 month timeline to help you plan your move and make sure nothing gets left behind.

6 Months Before

Downsizing & Decluttering

6 month before you plan on moving, it's a good idea to start going through your belongings. This process will help you get an idea of what you need to pack, what you can leave behind, and what needs to go into storage. It's also a good time to start making decisions about which items you want to keep and which ones you're willing to part with. Downsizing and decluttering your home before the move will save you time and money in the long run.

If you're planning on hiring a moving company, now is the time to start making some calls. Get quotes from a few different companies and compare prices. You should also read online reviews to get an idea of what others have thought about their experience with various moving companies. Once you've found a company that you're happy with, be sure to book them as soon as possible.

5 Months Before

Start Packing & Renovating

Now is the time to start packing up the items you won't be needing between now and the move. This includes out-of-season clothes, extra bedding, books, and any other items that you can live without for a few months. If you have the space, you can start packing these items away in boxes. Otherwise, you may want to consider renting a storage unit.

If you're planning on doing any renovations in your new home, now is the time to start making those arrangements. This includes painting, carpeting, and any other work that needs to be done before you move in.

If you have children, now is the time to start researching schools in your new area. This way, you can be sure to get them enrolled in the school of their choice before the move.

4 Months Before

Transfer Utilities & Collect Documents

With your moving day 4 months away, it's time to start thinking about transferring your utilities. This includes water, electricity, gas, cable, and internet. You'll want to contact your current providers and let them know you're moving. They'll be able to give you a date for when service needs to be disconnected, as well as help you set up service in your new home.

Also, you may want to start creating a binder of important documents. This can include your lease agreement, moving paperwork, school records, and anything else you may need to reference during the move. You can also include a list of contacts, such as your moving company, utility providers, and your real estate agent.

3 Months Before

Arrange Finances & Pet Care

Now that you're just three months away from moving day, it's time to start getting your financial affairs in order. This includes transferring your accounts, cancelling any subscriptions or memberships you won't be needing in your new home, and making sure all of your bills are paid off.

For those looking to save money on their move, now is the time to start collecting moving boxes. You can often find free boxes at your local grocery or liquor store. Just be sure to call ahead and ask if they have any available.

If you have any pets, now is the time to start making arrangements for their care during the move. This may include finding a pet-friendly hotel or arranging for a friend or family member to take care of them while you're moving.

2 Months Before

Book Moving Company & Donate Unwaited Items

This is the time to be finishing up your packing and getting everything ready for the move. If you haven't done so already, be sure to make arrangements with a moving company. This includes booking them as well as getting insurance for your belongings.

Now is also the time to start cleaning your home from top to bottom. This way, you can get your deposit back and leave your old home in good condition for the next tenants.

If you have any big items that you won't be taking with you, now is the time to sell them or donate them to charity. This includes furniture, appliances, and any other large items that won't fit in your new home.

1 Month Before

Confirm Arrangements & Travel Plans

Moving day is coming up fast, so it's time to start getting everything in order. This includes confirming your arrangements with the moving company, as well as finalizing your packing. Be sure to label all of your boxes so that you know what's inside and where it needs to go in your new home.

If you cannot move into your new home on the day you move out of your old one, you'll need to make arrangements for temporary housing. This may include staying with friends or family, renting a hotel room, or renting a storage unit.

2 Weeks Before

Forward Mail & Start Packing Kitchen

The final two weeks before moving are vital for ensuring that everything goes smoothly. This is the time to start disconnecting your utilities, as well as forwarding your mail.

This is also the time to start packing up your kitchen. Be sure to pack all of your dishes, silverware, and small appliances. You'll also want to make sure you have enough food on hand for the week before the move.

The Day Before

Pack Necessities & Prepare for the Big Day

The day before you move into your new home is the time to finish up any last-minute packing. This includes packing up your clothes, toiletries, and any other items you'll need for the first few days in your new home. Be sure to pack an overnight bag with everything you'll need for the first night. Check that all arrangements have been made and confirmed to ensure a stress-free moving day.

Moving Day

Unload Your Items & Enjoy Your New Home

The day has finally arrived! On moving day, be sure to supervise the movers and direct them to where your belongings need to go. Once everything is moved in, make sure that you double-check all the rooms in your old home to make sure nothing was left behind.

No matter how well you plan, there is always a chance that something can go wrong during the move. Be sure to inspect all of your belongings for damage and make a list of any items that were lost or broken. If anything was damaged during the move, be sure to file a claim with the moving company.

Let RARE Take Care of Your Move

If you’re looking for a hassle-free move, look no further than RARE. We are a full-service moving company that can take care of everything, from packing to transportation. Our storage facility is also available for those who need a place to keep their belongings before, during, or after the moving process.

Planning a Stress-Free Move: 6 Month Timeline

Let RARE Take Care of Your Move

Questions? Contact us!