Moving To-Do List

/in /by

Need help?

American Movers New Jersey provides complete packing services, which can be customized to meet your needs and budget. We have new packing material that is designed to give your goods special protection during your move. Our experienced personnel will see to it that all your valued good possessions arrive safely at your new home in the containers we use. Special crates can be custom-built for fragile items, assuring that those pieces can be safely transported to the new location. Anytime you’re looking for movers, you should keep in mind the following tips to avoid moving scams.

Six Weeks to One Month Before Moving

Your move may be tax-deductible — check with your accountant or the IRS. Save all receipts and records!

Some city addresses, apartments and homeowner associations require advanced notice of a move. Begin making plans early – call moving or truck rental companies for estimates and set dates. Confirm elevator reservations or parking arrangements if needed. (Please note that availability slots fill quickly, especially during the spring and summer.) Start early to ensure a smooth move.

Begin collecting moving supplies – boxes, tape, packing paper and tools. Go to the local supermarket or liquor store to collect boxes, or purchase them. Most NJ movers have strong boxes for sale that are ideal. If you collect boxes from around town, call the supermarket or local bookstore (for example) and find out when they receive deliveries – boxes usually abound on those days. (Check Packing Tips by American Movers New Jersey for more information.)

Consider lightening the load by either placing an ad in a local newspaper or holding a garage sale – or both (see Garage Sale Tips for handy information). Some papers offer low cost ads or even free, so be sure to inquire with the newspaper about their ad placement policies.

Start packing unused items first. Label boxes “kitchen” or “basement” or wherever you would like them to go. Clearly mark fragile items so your New York movers or NJ movers will know how to handle them properly. (Bring the most fragile items in the car with you.)

Start keeping an eye on what mailing lists you are on – you’ll need to change your address.

Two – Three Weeks Before Moving

Call a plumber and set a date for when he can disconnect gas appliances, ice maker and jacuzzi, if you have got any.

Call the electrician to disconnect electric stoves, dryer (if not the plug-in connection) and chandeliers, if needed.

Arrange to dispose of or transport items that your movers will not move – aerosol cans, flammables, ammunition and gasoline. Propane tanks for barbeques must be professionally emptied. Check with the moving company when in doubt.

Confirm moving reservations and inquire about payment arrangements with your movers.

Arrange to close or transfer bank account as needed.

Fill out change of address form at the post office.

Make arrangements with local utility companies for service in your new home.

Find out where these services can be found

  • Motor Vehicle Station
  • Banks and post office
  • Schools and libraries
  • Automechanic
  • Doctors, dentists and health care providers
  • Hospitals Police and fire stations
  • Dry Cleaners or laundromat
  • Supermarkets, malls and shopping areas
  • Convenience stores

One Day Before Moving

Disconnect the refrigerator so the water inside can drain. Pack any immediate needs into a cooler. Fill a sock with coffee, baking soda or charcoal to keep your fridge smelling fresh. Make sure it’s dry both inside and in the drain tray.

Make or confirm arrangements with police or condo association for truck parking on a congested street.

Back up your important computer files and keep them with you.

Drain gas from lawn mower, weed wacker, and any other such items.

Moving Day

Either leave a floor plan for the movers, or be present to show them where to arrange furniture and items in your new home. Point out any items that need special handling or attention.

When you arrive at your new home, allow your computer to reach room temperature before turning it on (if its very hot or cold).

Have these items handy:

  • Medical supplies
  • Tools and flashlight
  • Bedding and towels
  • Personal supplies (soap, toilet paper, etc.)
  • Important phone numbers and a phone
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Kitchenware (disposable cups, plates and cutlery, can opener, paper towels, etc.)
  • Snacks and take-out for dinner!

After Moving

Register to vote in your new area. Do you need to change your driver’s license? Call the Department of Sanitation to find out what day trash is collected and what restrictions are present. Make sure any previous medical records get forwarded to your new doctor and dentist.

Have emergency numbers accessible: 911, Poison Control Center, police, fire, emergency, crisis line, and any other service. Check your local phone book (often in the blue pages).

Notify Change of Address:

  • Friends & family
  • Bank
  • Insurance company
  • Credit card companies
  • Magazine and newspaper publishers
  • Doctors, dentists and other service providers
  • Book and music clubs.
  • Utility companies – gas, electric, sewer, water, cable, phone, internet provider, etc.
  • Leave your phone and electric connected on moving day.
  • State & Federal tax authorities (800-829-3676 for an IRS change of address form. For the NJ State Division of Taxation, call 609-588-2200.)