Move Smart: Create a Moving out Checklist

Moving out of your apartment doesn’t have to be difficult. To keep yourself organized, making a moving out checklist should be a one of the first things you do. This will help the process move smoothly and also help to relieve some of the stress that’s associated with moving. Here are some categories to think about and items you should add to your checklist for a smart move.

Get Organized

Aside from putting together a comprehensive checklist, you’ll also want to develop a system to help you get organized. You may want to get a binder or file folders before your start the moving process. Here, you can make a master list of what is included in each one of your moving boxes. You can also store receipts, contracts and quotes from various vendors. This will help you keep important documents in one place and act as a reference tool for when it’s time to unpack.

Buy the Right Supplies

Before you start packing, you’ll want to make sure that you’re equipped with the proper supplies. On your list, be sure to include various sizes of boxes, heavy duty tape, bubble wrap and markers. Color coded labels can help you organize boxes by category such as items from the bathroom, kitchen and bedroom. Also consider buying more packing items because there’s nothing worse than being in the midst of packing and realizing that you need to buy more tape.

Aside from organizing, you’ll want to make sure you have the proper cleaning supplies. Basics like wood, tile and glass cleaners are a must, but also think of heavy duty cleaners like AJAX or Goo Gone that can remove stains, grease or cracks. Dust rags, paper towels and easy cleaning solutions like the Swiffer can also make cleaning easier.

Preparing for the Move

There are several types of logistics to consider before moving out. Contacting your landlord or building because they may have a certain date and time restrictions for moving out.  Be sure to get bids from various moving companies to help you select the right moving company. Your list should include important questions such as standard costs, additional fees, time it takes to move and method of payment as each moving company is different.

Update Your Contacts

You’ll have to notify various contacts of your move. On your checklist, include credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, the Post Office, and family and friends. You should also notify utility companies of your move out day so they can take your name off of the bill because many electric companies don’t turn the power off, they will just switch the name. Also notify the cable company and schedule a time to return any equipment such as a DVR or router.

Using a checklist is one way to make the moving process run smoothly. Use these categories to help develop your checklist and get specific on supplies, tasks and next steps. Don’t forget to use a moving binder to store your checklist and all other import documents too!