With all the chaos and excitement of moving to a new house, it’s natural to forget some things, including common household items and important procedural steps. There’s so much to do that it’s almost inevitable that you’ll forget something along the way – but if you’re proactive and deliberate in your work, you can minimize the possibilities of forgetting something truly important.
Procedural Steps and Processes
These are some of the biggest procedural steps and tasks that people forget when moving:
1. Renting a Dumpster.
Renting a dumpster can be incredibly valuable, especially if you’re getting rid of old furniture and other possessions in bulk. Best of all, renting a dumpster is easy and inexpensive. You can set up a rental in a matter of minutes with a local company, and as long as you’re familiar with the guidelines, you can use the dumpster responsibly to get rid of most of the items you no longer need.
2. Changing your Address/Mail Forwarding.
You have to change your address with a number of institutions when you move. USPS allows you to change your address online and set up mail forwarding, which you should be able to accomplish in just a few minutes. However, it’s also important to contact various organizations and institutions individually to change your address, such as your bank, the DMV, the IRS, and any company through which you have an active subscription.
3. Utility Changeover.
You’ll also need to change your utility services, including your electricity, natural gas, water, cable, internet, sewer, and trash. End service with your old companies and set up service with your new companies. Ideally, you’ll start this process at least a week before you intend to move.
4. Securing Boxes and Movables.
If you’re hiring a moving company, you’ll likely be provided with moving boxes and packing materials; make sure you use them as directed. If you’re moving yourself, be sure to secure your boxes and furniture to avoid damage during the move.
5. Labelling Boxes.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to label the boxes you’re packing as you’re packing them. Make a brief list of the items included in each box and where that box is going to go in the new house. The more thorough you are at the beginning of the process, the more convenient it will be for you during the move.
6. Measuring Furniture.
Are you sure that couch can fit in your living room? Can it even fit through your door? Too many people forget the importance of measuring furniture before they attempt to move it. Be sure of your dimensions before you make any long-term plans for moving.
Commonly Forgotten Items
These are some of the most commonly forgotten and lost items during a move:
7. ID and Personal Records.
Your ID and personal records, such as your birth certificate, social security card, and medical information, are vital – yet they’re commonly left behind. Prioritize these documents and keep them in a safe place during the move.
8. Miscellaneous Bathroom Items.
Did you remember to bring soap, toilet paper, and your toothbrush? What about a toilet brush and a plunger? You can pick up most of these items at a store inexpensively, so it’s not the end of the world if you forget them, but it’s still much more convenient if you remember to bring them in the first place.
9. Keys.
Keys and garage door openers are necessary to enter your new place, so make sure you have them with you. It’s also important to make sure you’re handling your old keys appropriately; did you give them to the new owners or back to your landlord?
10. Outdoor Tools.
Outdoor items, like gardening tools, are often stored in sheds or outdoor storage containers, making them easy to forget as you’re combing through the house.
11. Medicines and First Aid.
Medications, drugs, and first aid items are all important for your health – and could be necessary in an emergency situation. Make sure they’re packed and clearly labeled, in case you need them during the move (or shortly after).
12. Chargers and Accessories.
Chargers, cables, and other electronic accessories tend to be small and easy to lose – but they’re important for your devices, so try not to leave them behind.
13. Trash and Recycling.
Don’t forget to put that last load of trash and recycling on the curb before you complete your move.
This list is far from exhaustive, so if you want to reduce the possibility of forgetting something very important, it’s a good idea to start the process as early as possible and put together checklists to keep yourself focused. Thoroughly document your important possessions and the steps of your moving process, then follow those documents throughout the process.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.