[2023] What Should I Do a Month Before I Move?

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. To ensure a smooth and stress-free move, it’s important to start planning well in advance. One month before your move is a crucial time to tackle important tasks and make necessary preparations. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with expert advice and a detailed checklist of what you should do a month before you move. So let’s dive in and make your move a breeze!

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background
• Downsizing and Decluttering
• Taking Inventory
• Researching and Hiring a Moving Company
• Gathering Important Documents
• Starting the Packing Process
• Changing Your Address
• Transferring Utilities and Home Services
• Providing Notice to Relevant Parties
• Checking Prescriptions and Medical Records
• Planning Your Route
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

In summary, here are the key tasks you should complete one month before you move:

1. Downsize and declutter your belongings.
2. Take inventory of your possessions.
3. Research and hire a reputable moving company.
4. Gather important documents and keep them in a safe place.
5. Start the packing process by organizing and labeling your boxes.
6. Change your address with the post office and important organizations.
7. Transfer utilities and home services to your new address.
8. Provide notice to your employer, landlord, and other relevant parties.
9. Check prescriptions and ensure you have an adequate supply.
10. Plan your route and consider any potential road or weather conditions.

Now, let’s dive into each of these tasks in more detail.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we delve into the specifics, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind:

• Start early: It’s never too early to start planning for your move. The more time you have, the less stressful it will be.
• Create a moving checklist: A moving checklist will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important tasks.
• Label your boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier.
• Pack an essentials box: Pack a box with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.
• Notify important parties: Don’t forget to notify your employer, schools, banks, insurance companies, and other relevant parties about your upcoming move.
• Consider hiring professionals: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring professional movers to assist with the packing and transportation of your belongings.

Background

Moving can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but with proper planning and organization, it can also be an exciting new chapter in your life. By starting your preparations one month before your move, you’ll have ample time to complete all the necessary tasks and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Now, let’s dive into each task in more detail and provide you with expert advice and tips to make your move as seamless as possible.

Downsizing and Decluttering

One month before your move is the perfect time to start downsizing and decluttering your belongings. Moving presents an excellent opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need or use, making your move more efficient and cost-effective.

Here are some steps to follow when downsizing and decluttering:

1. Purge unwanted items: Go through each room in your home and identify items you no longer need or want. Separate them into categories for donation, selling, or disposal.
2. Sell valuable items: If you have items of value that you no longer need, consider selling them online or hosting a garage sale.
3. Donate usable items: Donate gently used items to local charities or organizations in need.
4. Dispose of unusable items: Properly dispose of any items that are broken or beyond repair.
5. Label boxes: As you declutter, label boxes with the appropriate category (donate, sell, or trash) to make it easier when packing.

By downsizing and decluttering, you’ll not only save time and money during your move but also start fresh in your new home with a more organized and clutter-free space.

“I found that downsizing before my move made the whole process much easier. It was liberating to let go of items I no longer needed and start fresh in my new home.” – Sarah, a satisfied customer.

Taking Inventory

Taking inventory of your possessions is an essential step in the moving process. It helps you determine the number of boxes and packing supplies you’ll need and provides an accurate record of your belongings for insurance purposes.

Here’s how to take inventory:

1. Room by room: Go through each room in your home and make a list of the items you plan to take with you.
2. Include details: Note down the quantity, description, and condition of each item.
3. Take photos: Take photos of valuable items and keep them with your inventory list.
4. Estimate value: If you have valuable items, estimate their value for insurance purposes.

Taking inventory will not only help you stay organized during the packing process but also provide peace of mind knowing that your belongings are accounted for.

“Taking inventory was a game-changer for me. It helped me stay organized and ensured that nothing was left behind during the move.” – John, a satisfied customer.

Researching and Hiring a Moving Company

Hiring a reputable moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. One month before your move, it’s time to start researching and comparing moving companies to find the best fit for your needs.

Here’s what to consider when researching and hiring a moving company:

1. Get recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations on moving companies they have used and had a positive experience with.
2. Read reviews: Check online reviews and ratings for moving companies in your area. Pay attention to feedback regarding professionalism, reliability, and customer service.
3. Obtain multiple estimates: Contact at least three moving companies and request in-home estimates. This will give you a more accurate idea of the cost and allow you to compare services.
4. Verify credentials: Ensure that the moving company is licensed, insured, and registered with the appropriate authorities.
5. Ask about additional services: Inquire about any additional services offered by the moving company, such as packing, unpacking, and storage options.

“Hiring a professional moving company was the best decision I made during my move. They took care of everything, from packing to transportation, and made the process so much easier.” – Emily, a satisfied customer.

Gathering Important Documents

One month before your move, it’s essential to gather and organize all your important documents. Keeping them in a safe and easily accessible place will ensure that they don’t get lost or misplaced during the move.

Here are some important documents to gather:

• Identification documents: Passports, driver’s licenses, and birth certificates.
• Financial documents: Bank statements, insurance policies, and tax records.
• Medical records: Prescription medications, vaccination records, and medical history.
• Legal documents: Lease agreements, property deeds, and wills.
• School records: Transcripts, report cards, and enrollment documents.

Place these documents in a secure folder or box and keep them with you during the move. It’s also a good idea to make digital copies of important documents and store them securely online.

“Gathering all my important documents in one place gave me peace of mind during the move. I knew exactly where everything was and didn’t have to worry about losing anything.” – Mark, a satisfied customer.

Starting the Packing Process

One month before your move is the ideal time to start the packing process. By starting early, you can pack gradually and avoid the last-minute rush.

Here are some tips to make the packing process more efficient:

1. Create a packing schedule: Break down the packing process into smaller tasks and create a schedule to stay organized.
2. Pack room by room: Start with rooms that are used less frequently and gradually move to more essential areas.
3. Label boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier.
4. Use quality packing supplies: Invest in sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper to protect your belongings during the move.
5. Pack an essentials box: Pack a box with essential items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.

“Packing was the most time-consuming part of my move, but starting early and staying organized made it much more manageable. I labeled each box and created an essentials box, which made unpacking a breeze.” – Lisa, a satisfied customer.

Changing Your Address

One month before your move, it’s crucial to change your address with the post office and important organizations. This will ensure that your mail is forwarded to your new address and that you don’t miss any important correspondence.

Here’s a checklist of organizations to notify about your address change:

• Post office: Visit your local post office or change your address online at USPS.
• Banks: Notify your bank and update your address for all accounts.
• Insurance companies: Update your address with your auto, home, and health insurance providers.
• Employer: Inform your employer of your new address for payroll and tax purposes.
• Schools: If you have children, notify their schools of your upcoming move.
• Utilities: Contact your utility providers (electricity, gas, water) to schedule disconnection at your current address and connection at your new address.
• Internet and cable providers: Arrange for the transfer or installation of internet and cable services at your new home.
• Subscription services: Update your address with any subscription services you receive, such as magazines or meal kits.

“Changing my address with the post office and important organizations was a crucial step in my move. It ensured that I didn’t miss any important mail or bills during the transition.” – Mike, a satisfied customer.

Transferring Utilities and Home Services

One month before your move, it’s important to contact your utility providers and arrange for the transfer or disconnection of services at your current address and the connection of services at your new address.

Here’s a checklist of utilities and home services to consider:

• Electricity: Contact your electricity provider to schedule disconnection at your current address and connection at your new address.
• Gas: If you have gas service, contact your provider to arrange for disconnection and connection.
• Water: Notify your water provider and arrange for the transfer of service to your new address.
• Internet and cable: Contact your internet and cable providers to schedule the transfer or installation of services at your new home.
• Home security: If you have a home security system, notify your provider and arrange for the transfer of service.
• Trash and recycling: Contact your local waste management company to schedule the transfer of service or arrange for a new provider at your new address.

“Transferring utilities and home services was a straightforward process. I contacted each provider well in advance, and they were able to schedule the disconnection and connection of services seamlessly.” – Jessica, a satisfied customer.

Providing Notice to Relevant Parties

One month before your move, it’s important to provide notice to relevant parties about your upcoming move. This includes your employer, landlord, and any organizations or individuals affected by your move.

Here’s a checklist of parties to notify:

• Employer: Inform your employer of your upcoming move and discuss any necessary arrangements, such as remote work or time off.
• Landlord: If you’re renting, provide your landlord with written notice of your intent to move out and discuss any necessary procedures for returning keys or receiving your security deposit.
• Schools: If you have children, notify their schools of your upcoming move and arrange for the transfer of records.
• Insurance companies: Update your address with your auto, home, and health insurance providers.
• Financial institutions: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and any other financial institutions of your change of address.
• Subscription services: Cancel or transfer any subscription services that are tied to your current address, such as newspapers or meal kits.

“Providing notice to my employer and landlord well in advance allowed me to smoothly transition to my new home without any last-minute complications.” – David, a satisfied customer.

Checking Prescriptions and Medical Records

One month before your move, it’s important to check your prescription medications and ensure you have an adequate supply for the transition period. It’s also a good time to gather your medical records and ensure they’re easily accessible.

Here’s what to do:

1. Check prescription medications: Take stock of your prescription medications and ensure you have enough to last you until you can transfer your prescriptions to a new pharmacy.
2. Transfer prescriptions: If you’re moving out of the area, contact your current pharmacy and arrange for the transfer of your prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new home.
3. Gather medical records: Contact your healthcare providers and request copies of your medical records. Keep them in a safe place or consider transferring them to your new healthcare provider.

“Checking my prescriptions and gathering my medical records ahead of time saved me a lot of stress during the move. I didn’t have to worry about running out of medications or finding a new pharmacy in my new area.” – Rachel, a satisfied customer.

Planning Your Route

One month before your move, it’s important to plan your route to your new home. Consider any potential road or weather conditions that may affect your journey and make necessary arrangements.

Here are some tips for planning your route:

1. Research road conditions: Check for any road closures, construction, or detours along your planned route. Consider alternative routes if necessary.
2. Consider weather conditions: Check the weather forecast for your moving day and plan accordingly. If inclement weather is expected, consider rescheduling or making alternative arrangements.
3. Plan rest stops: If you’re moving long-distance, plan regular rest stops along your route to stretch your legs and take breaks.
4. Pack snacks and essentials: Pack a cooler with snacks, drinks, and essential items you’ll need during the journey.

“Planning my route ahead of time allowed me to anticipate any potential road or weather conditions and make necessary adjustments. It made my move much smoother and less stressful.” – Alex, a satisfied customer.

FAQ

How do I prepare for a move the month before?

To prepare for a move one month before, follow these steps:

1. Downsize and declutter: Purge unwanted items and label boxes for donation, selling, or trash.
2. Take inventory: Make a list of your possessions and note down their quantity, description, and condition.
3. Research and hire a moving company: Get recommendations, read reviews, and obtain multiple estimates.
4. Gather important documents: Collect identification, financial, medical, legal, and school records.
5. Start the packing process: Create a packing schedule, pack room by room, and label boxes.
6. Change your address: Notify the post office, banks, insurance companies, employer, schools, and subscription services.
7. Transfer utilities and home services: Contact electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash providers.
8. Provide notice to relevant parties: Inform your employer, landlord, and other organizations affected by your move.
9. Check prescriptions and medical records: Ensure you have an adequate supply of medications and gather your medical records.
10. Plan your route: Research road and weather conditions, plan rest stops, and pack essentials.

Read more about “What to Do 5 Weeks Before Moving? …”

How do I prepare to move in 30 days?

To prepare to move in 30 days, follow these steps:

1. Create a moving checklist: Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete before your move and set deadlines for each task.
2. Start downsizing and decluttering: Purge unwanted items and label boxes for donation, selling, or trash.
3. Research and hire a moving company: Get recommendations, read reviews, and obtain multiple estimates.
4. Gather important documents: Collect identification, financial, medical, legal, and school records.
5. Start the packing process: Create a packing schedule, pack room by room, and label boxes.
6. Change your address: Notify the post office, banks, insurance companies, employer, schools, and subscription services.
7. Transfer utilities and home services: Contact electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash providers.
8. Provide notice to relevant parties: Inform your employer, landlord, and other organizations affected by your move.
9. Check prescriptions and medical records: Ensure you have an adequate supply of medications and gather your medical records.
10. Plan your route: Research road and weather conditions, plan rest stops, and pack essentials.

Read more about “… What Should I Do 30 Days Before Moving? Your Ultimate Moving Checklist”

Should I start packing a month before moving?

Yes, it’s recommended to start packing a month before your move. Packing can be a time-consuming process, and starting early will allow you to pack gradually and avoid the last-minute rush. Begin with rooms that are used less frequently and gradually move to more essential areas. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for easy unpacking.

Read more about “… The Ultimate Timeline for Moving Out of State: Top 30 Tips, Checklist, and Expert Advice”

What to do 5 weeks before moving?

Five weeks before your move, you should start the following tasks:

1. Create a moving checklist: Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete before your move and set deadlines for each task.
2. Research and hire a moving company: Get recommendations, read reviews, and obtain multiple estimates.
3. Gather important documents: Collect identification, financial, medical, legal, and school records.
4. Start downsizing and decluttering: Purge unwanted items and label boxes for donation, selling, or trash.
5. Change your address: Notify the post office, banks, insurance companies, employer, schools, and subscription services.
6. Transfer utilities and home services: Contact electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash providers.
7. Provide notice to relevant parties: Inform your employer, landlord, and other organizations affected by your move.
8. Check prescriptions and medical records: Ensure you have an adequate supply of medications and gather your medical records.
9. Plan your route: Research road and weather conditions, plan rest stops, and pack essentials.
10. Start the packing process: Create a packing schedule, pack room by room, and label boxes.

Read more about “What to do 5 weeks before moving?”

Conclusion

Moving can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and organization, it can also be an exciting new adventure. By starting your preparations one month before your move, you’ll have ample time to complete all the necessary tasks and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Remember to downsize and declutter, take inventory of your possessions, research and hire a reputable moving company, gather important documents, start the packing process, change your address, transfer utilities and home services, provide notice to relevant parties, check prescriptions and medical records, and plan your route.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your move and ready to embark on the next chapter of your life.

Recommended Links

• The Ultimate Timeline for Moving Out of State: Top 30 Tips, Checklist, and Expert Advice
• Pre-Move Planning
• Moving Essentials
• Packing Tips
• Moving Day Checklist

Reference Links

• 10 Things You Need to Do 1 Month Before You Move – Updater