Whether you move to the other side of your current hometown or to another town or city, moving is one of the most exciting adventures you can take. It is also easily one of the most stressful, not only from a logistical standpoint, but also in terms of budget. There are many things to think about. However, a little planning can make the whole procedure much more manageable. To help you on your way, we have listed 7 things to keep in mind when you move.
1. Contact the utilities
When you move, don't forget to contact the utilities (energy, gas, water) in advance to arrange your connection. Many companies allow you to transfer your contract, but sometimes it is necessary to switch. Also state the desired connection dates. Many carriers take a few days to start the service, so be sure to check with them before you move. Otherwise you may pay for the use of the previous occupants.
2. Take out an internet and TV subscription in your new home
If you are moving, it is also wise to take out an internet and TV subscription at your new address. The internet speed you need depends on your usage. The higher the speed, the more expensive the subscription. You might be able to manage with a cheaper subscription at your new address. In any case, make sure that you are connected to your new address from day one. You don't want to experience the inconvenience of living in a new house without internet and TV, because who can do without it now?
3. Change your address at all authorities
You must notify the municipality of your new address in good time. Government agencies have access to that data, so in principle you do not have to report your move separately. The authorities to which you must report your move include:insurance, banks, subscriptions, memberships, GP, dentist and of course family and friends.
4. Tidy up your house
It may feel like an annoying item on your to-do list, but removing everything you don't want to take with you before you move will ultimately save you time, space, and money. Moving is actually a good time to take stock of what you really need. View all of your belongings — cookware, clothing, and even furniture — and take stock of what you no longer need or want. Anything you've been holding onto can be thrown away, donated, or better yet, sold to earn some extra cash. If you don't know where to start, you can always use Marie Kondo's Konmari method.
5. Pack your things
You now need to put together a packing checklist. If you're cleaning up, it's a good time to create an action plan to pack all your belongings. Start packing non-essentials two weeks in advance — the cleanup has given you a good idea of what these items are. Start this process outside or in the basement, then continue from the top of the house to the front door. If you are a week away from the move, you can start packing seriously, and make sure the boxes don't get in the way when you actually move.
6. Pack a separate box with essentials
This particular box has great significance in your moving process as you will need it when you are in your new home. This box should contain all the items that you usually use and that you will probably need the first night and the next day. Pack things like basic toiletries, pyjamas, clothes, towels, bedding, toilet paper, chargers, a few plates and bowls, tea bags, a coffee maker, and so on. If you don't have a separate box, you won't know where all the stuff you need is.
7. Use a moving checklist
If you want to make sure you don't forget anything during the moving period, your only chance of a successful move is to organize the tasks into a specialized to-do list known as a moving checklist. A moving checklist not only lists everything you need to do before, during, and after your move, but also outlines the order in which you should complete those moving tasks for maximum efficiency. For example, the consumer association has drawn up the ultimate moving checklist that you can download.
