You're almost there! Next comes packing up and moving in to your new property. Regardless of whether you've bought a mansion or a cosy studio, moving to a new house can be very hectic so it pays to plan well in advance.
Start organising the move as soon as you've exchanged contracts. Sort and sell things you don't need at a garage sale and put the money towards moving costs. Ask us here at First National Zenith to recommend removal companies or search online. Ask for quotes as prices can vary considerably.
Eight weeks before the move
If you are using a professional mover, get estimates from different moving companies and choose the one that is best suited to your needs. If you are moving yourself, get estimates from truck rental companies. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. Draw a floor plan of your new house. This will help you decide what furniture stays and what furniture should go. Use up things that can't be moved - such as the food in your freezer and flammable household aerosol cleaning supplies. Contact the information office or local council in your future location and start gathering information about your new home town.
Six weeks before the move
Discuss costs, packing, loading, delivery, insurance and the claims procedure with your mover. Make an inventory of all your possessions and determine what can be sold and what can be donated to charity. Get copies of your records from doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants, etc. Plan to transfer your children's school records. Start to notify companies and people who regularly send you mail. For a list of possible contacts, see Things to Do below. Don’t forget about changing the address on magazine subscriptions and catalogues too.
Four weeks before the move
If you have contracted to have the mover do all the packing for you, arrange to have this task completed a day or two before loading the truck If you need it, arrange for storage. Clean or repair any furniture, curtains, or carpets that require cleaning, Hold a garage sale. Use the extra cash to splurge a little on your new place. Ask First National for a copy of the l 'HoIding a garage sale" flyer. This will help you plan. If you are moving yourself, work out how many boxes you'll need. Truck rental companies might be able to assist you with this. Do-it-yourself movers should take stock of non-boxable items. Add 15 percent to their combined cubic feet (along with total cubic feet of boxes to be loaded) to determine the size of truck you'll need.
Three weeks before the move
Assemble packing materials Furniture pads Packing tape Bubble wrap Nylon packing string and rope Crumpled newspapers Scissors Utility knife Large self-stick labels Felt-tip markers Boxes, boxes, boxes Begin packing items that you won't need. Don't pack too much weight in an unreinforced box. Arrange to cancel utilities and services at your old home and have them installed at your new home.
Two weeks before the move
Arrange to transfer all your bank accounts to new branch locations. Make any special arrangements to move pets. Consult your veterinarian about how to make moving easier for your pet. Plan for new telephone service. Cancel any direct deposit or automatic payment arrangements on bank accounts you are closing. Cancel delivery services.
One week before the move
Transfer all medical prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new location. If you will need a babysitter make a booking before moving day. Return library books and videotapes.
Two or Three days before the move
Defrost your refrigerator and freezer. Have the movers pack your shipment. Arrange to have cash, a certified cheque, or money order ready to pay the driver on delivery day. Set aside valuables and legal documents to go with you, not in the van. Pack one or two day’s clothing and toiletries to go with you so you are prepared for the first few days as you begin to unpack. Pack your first-day handy items box (see 'Delivery Day") to go with you.
Moving Day
Do-it-yourself movers should pick up the truck early. Make a list of every item and box loaded onto the truck. Let the mover know where you can be reached. Before you sign your agreement with the mover, read the conditions. Keep it in a safe place until your goods are delivered, charges are paid, and any claims are settled. Check your old house to make sure you've turned off water appliances etc. Inspect basement, attic, garage. Be on hand to answer questions and give directions to the mover.
Delivery Day
Assemble first-day handy items:
Scissors. Utility knife. Coffee cups. Tea kettle. Paper plates. Toilet paper. Instant coffee, tea, soft drinks. Soap. Pencils and paper. Local phone book. Masking tape. Bath towels. Garbage bags. Toiletries kit. Shelf liner. Check off all boxes and items as they come off the truck. Make sure the utilities are hooked up. Unpack kids' toys. Be on hand to answer questions, pay the driver, give direction and examine your belongings.
Things to Do -Tick When Completed. Final checklist of contacts to be made:
Financial / Legal (notify in writing)
Bank (Credit cards and children's accounts) Building society (Loan and savings accounts) Credit union Age / Invalid / Repatriation Pensions (Social Security / Repatriation Departments.) Public library Life insurance companies (quote policy no.) Property insurance company (quote policy no.) Car insurances company (quote policy no.) Any other insurance Credit cards Car registration Driver’s registration Electoral office Local police Shares & Investments Government bonds Personal / Social
Employers Schools Kindergarten Tertiary Part time, evening and correspondence courses Other (when children change school, you may need an official transfer) Doctor Dentist Hospital (ie: if you are an outpatient) Baby health centre Health fund Social clubs Children's activities (ie: Scouts, Ballet, Basketball) Sporting clubs (whether- a player or a member) Neighbours
Housekeeping
First National Zenith will help you connect and disconnect using Compare & Connect for
Electricity Gas Telephone Also remember to notify
Post office Magazine subscriptions Newspaper subscriptions News-agency
