Are you getting ready to move to the Ft. Lewis/McChord area? We here at Phil Sharp Homes know that relocating to a whole new area can cause some unwanted stress. Now that you are buying a home in the JBLM area, it’s time to get ready to make the big move! Here is a simple checklist that starts 2 months before relocating to JBLM so that you can get out of your previous home and into your new home as smoothly as possible. If you haven’t purchased a home yet, head on over to
www.PhilSharpHomes.com and get to know us!
EIGHT WEEKS before the move
Pick what you need
Moving is a great time to go through all the ‘stuff’ you may have accumulated through the years and pair it down a bit. If you have time, try to organize a garage sale to earn some extra moola! If not, you can donate it to a local charity.
Prepare a binder
To make things a little easier I suggest making a binder to hold all the important paperwork that has to do with your move. It’s also a good idea to take to take pictures of your stuff for insurance purposes, just to be on the safe side.
Choose how to move
After you have cleaned out any clutter that you want to get rid of, now it’s time to think about HOW you want to move. Think about how far away your new home is and the distance you will be traveling. Contact and get quotes from several moving companies.
Records transfers
Copy all of the documents that you will need to transfer. Insurance, medical and school are top priority.
SIX WEEKS before the move
Moving the living
If you need to, now is the time to figure out how you are going to move all living things. This includes but is not limited to pets, plants and children.
Address change
Contact all utility companies, credit card companies, banks, subscriptions, etc. and give them your new address. Submit a change of address form on the USPS website and let your friends know the location of your new dwelling as well! Shutterfly usually has some good coupons for ‘We’ve Moved’ cards.
Something borrowed??
Make sure to return any things that you may have borrowed from friends or neighbors.
Auto registration
If you are planning on registering your car now is the time to look into what needs to be done. Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing.
FOUR WEEKS before the move
Temporary Housing & storage
If you need a list of short term hotels email me, jen@philsharphomes.com
Eat your food
This is as easy as it sounds! Eat everything perishable so you don’t have to throw it out.
Call Utility companies
Make sure you transfer everything out of your name before the move to avoid complications.
Pull out the boxes
It’s best to get packing! Pack slowly over time so you don’t feel too overwhelmed. Label everything, I suggest on all sides, so unpacking is easier.
Moving Company
Make sure everything is squared away with the moving company if you have decided to use one.
TWO WEEKS before the move
Call the Pharmacy
Filling all medications before the move will make things much easier!
Keep on packing
Keep things that you will need right away separate from everything else so it doesn’t get misplaced.
ONE WEEK before the move
Cleaning time
If you were renting, make sure to follow the cleaning checklist that your landlord should have provided. Clean things ahead of time if you can, such as under the fridge and behind appliances. If you are selling, clean the house too. You want to move into a clean house right?? So does the person who is moving into yours!
Pack personal belongings
Pack toiletries and clothes in a separate, easy to get to suitcase. I also suggest making a list of these things so you don’t forget anything important, such as glasses or contact solution!
Print details
Print directions for the moving company and write down any other important information on these directions as well, including your phone number.
Check out my Facebook page JBLM Relocation Sponsor
TWO DAYS before the move
Last minute packing
Pack up all of those last minute items!
Defrost
Take everything out of the freezer and defrost it. If you have leftover items, see if you can make something nice for your neighbors!
Action Plan
If you are like me and like plans and checklists, create a plan for moving day so everyone is on the same page
MOVING DAY!!! It’s finally here!
Dress comfy & BREATH!
Moving day is finally here and you are on your way to JBLM! I like to be as comfortable as possible before hitting the road!
Confirmation
It is important to double check the USDOT number on the moving truck and make sure it matches your records. Don’t sign the bill of lading until you have done this. Give them your directions and phone number.
Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough of the house. Look in every nook and cranny to make sure you didn’t forget something.
Print details
Print directions for the moving company and write down any other important information on these directions as well, including your phone number.
Phil Sharp Homes
360.970.9977