14 Point Moving Checklist (Tactical Edition)
If you like to be organized and systematic in your approach to life, and you happen to be moving, then you've come to the right place! Checklists give us a sense of control over what can sometimes feel like a stressful or helpless situation. They help us organize our thoughts and "light" the path ahead of us. Additionally they give us a sense of completion every time we check something off the list. I've compiled an in depth checklist for you to use as a reference to help make your next move as smooth a transition as possible. Additionally there will be a .doc version so you can print it out, put it on a clipboard, and look all official-like. Enjoy and don't switch homes without it!
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- Mode of Transportation-How are you physically going get your family and your belongings to your destination? Some options including hiring a company to do all or part of the work for you. If you are driving then you will want to have a route map (Google maps or Mapquest) with turn by turn directions printed off. If you are flying you will want taxi/shuttle/rental arrangements when you land. If you are driving you may want to consider a POD or UPACK solution to transport the bulk of your belongings so you can arrange to have your storage containers meet you at your new home to be unpacked. It may be a little more expensive but will save you the headaches of driving an extra large vehicle with your cars in tow, not to mention the added fuel costs and elevated risk of vehicle break-in. Consider added insurance for your belongings.
- Vehicle Maintenance-Before embarking on a long drive, make sure to have a competent mechanic do a multi-point inspection on your vehicle to make sure it is fit to make the trip. Make sure you have air in the spare and the right tools to replace a flat. Jumper cables couldn't hurt either.
- Food/Water-With modern technology it's easy to forget how unforgiving nature can be. If you find yourself off the beaten path, you will want to make sure you have at least a day or twos worth of food and water in the trunk. Bring all your prescription medications with you. Look at where you are driving through and plan accordingly. Bring a car charger for your phone.
- Budget- Try to over budget by 10% to give yourself room for surprise activities and not feel the squeeze by the end of your trip.
- Safety-Let someone you trust know where you are going before you take off and be sure to check for severe weather warnings regularly. If you are carrying a firearm, be sure to research and respect state laws because they can vary greatly from state to state. Know the correct way to respond to a police officer should you be pulled over. DO NOT drive tired, it is the equivalent of driving drunk and you don't want to risk you and your familys lives. Get your 7-8 hours of sleep per day or switch drivers. Each time your gas tank drops to 25%, it's time for a fill up.
- Route Plan-Most modern smart phones have a GPS navigation system built in but always have your route plan printed out so you can refer to it if your battery dies or phone breaks. A dedicated GPS with a car charger is handy to have as well.
- Hotels-Book your hotel ahead of time to save money and make sure you can get a clear picture of the area it is in. Read the reviews and try to book 3 star and above on priceline. Its not that much more money and you can often have breakfast and wifi included. You can drive the neighborhood using google street view.
- Entertainment-We could have made it from Las Vegas to DFW in 36 hours, but why the rush? Stop at some Diners and Dives and enjoy the local scenery. Take a moment to enjoy life and take in some new sights and sounds. Allocate some time and funds to have some fun.
- Utilities-Make a list of utility companies that service your new home and call them to schedule turn up 2 days before you arrive.
- Power
- Water
- Gas
- Sewer/Trash
- Internet/Cable/Phone
- Schools-Contact your destination school district ahead of time to make sure your kids have all the necessary shots, find out their class schedules, bus arrangements, etc
- Medical Records-Pick them up and have them ready for your new doctors.
- Records-Contact the following entities and update your address:
- Insurance
- Banking
- Subscriptions
- Vehicles-Register your vehicles and obtain a new license from the DMV.
- Neighbors-Join your neighborhood or HOA social media groups if they exist. Start them if they do not. These are a great way to get plugged in to the community and find intel on local businesses. You can discuss unique challenges that face your neighborhood and get to know the people around you better.
Hopefully you've found this list of 14 points insightful and useful. This list is designed for the most difficult scenario (Moving Long Distance) and you should modify it as needed. Having participated in convoys in dangerous environments, I have a unique perspective on how to prepare for and safely traverse long distances. People who have worked with me know that I'm Risk Averse and I almost always think ahead to properly prepare for the unknown. Please let me know if I'm missing anything and safe travels to you!
Posted in Moving and Relocating Post Date 09/29/2015