Tips On How To Avoid Problems When Moving
Organizing a move can leave you stressed out and exhausted, but being unprepared will make the entire experience that more stressful. With so much on the to do list, it is easy to miss important details.
To minimize your stress levels and help you stay on top of it all, we have created a list of important details to remember when moving.
Change your address
Notifying the post office of your change of address seems like a no brainer, but you’ll be surprised how often this part is overlooked. Contact any businesses and institutions necessary to avoid important mail going to the wrong place. Do this early on because it may take some time to take effect.
Switch Schools
If you have a child that will be switching schools as a result of your move, you must make arrangements and register your kid with the preferred, new school. Call ahead and arrange a meeting with the principal and some of the teachers there.
Learn what information they require from the old school, such as transcripts and immunizations. It would also be a good idea to schedule a tour of the building for you and your child.
Find new healthcare providers
When moving into a new home in a new city one of the first things you should do is look for the right health care providers for you and your family.
Ask for recommendations from your previous health care providers and colleagues at work, even possibly your new neighbors.
Switch your utilities
You should arrange the connections of the new house utilities before the move, and have it turned on a few days before you actually arrive at your destination. It is important to have light and running water once you move in, for obvious reasons.
Disconnect the utilities in your old home a few days after you move. The process for both is very simple, call your energy provider, and give them your address with preferred connection/disconnection dates.
Internet, phone, TV
Having taken care of the fundamental utilities, don’t forget to make the necessary arrangements to gain access to other important services, such as your Internet, phone and TV. This will take a few weeks, therefore be sure to schedule for these services before you move.
Childcare
If you have young children who will require a nanny, schedule interviews ahead of time. Therefore, by the time you have relocated you will have a trustworthy individual to take care of your child while you work.
Childproof new home
When moving into a new home with young children, you will have to take precautionary steps and baby-proof your new place. Start with the nursery room and continue on to the kitchen, the bathroom, your living, the stairs, and any other premises in your new home where things could go very wrong for your child.
Set up Security in your new home
Secure your new home against unauthorized access. Change the locks of all outside doors to ensure that you and your family are the only ones who have access to your new home. Double-check all windows and doors to make sure they close securely. Install smoke detectors in every room. Provide at least one functional fire extinguisher per floor.
Recycle packing material
Once you moved in and unpacked, you will be left with a lot of boxes and other packing material you may no longer need. Some of the boxes may still have enough life to be used for storage or pass on to you friends or relatives who may be moving soon. Otherwise, locate your local recycling area where you can drop off your cardboard boxes to be recycled.
Explore your new neighborhood
Check out the local grocery store, pharmacy, and restaurants. Learn of any kids activities that may be available in the area. This is also a great way to meet the locals and get a recommendation for a handy man or the neighborhood’s favorite babysitter.