Moving Into a New Home: The Complete Checklist for a Smooth Transition

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Moving is never easy, no matter where you're relocating to or from. There are always logistics to coordinate and details that can slip through the cracks. A comprehensive moving checklist helps keep everything organized so nothing gets overlooked.  

 

For those moving out of Fort Lauderdale, there are extra factors to consider. Over 1,000 people moved away from Fort Lauderdale in just a few months of 2019 alone. As nice as the beaches and tropical climate are, there are realities about living there that make relocating appealing. From preparing for hurricanes each season to navigating new neighborhoods, adjusting to Fort Lauderdale living has its challenges.  

 

If you're moving out of Fort Lauderdale, we've created a customized checklist covering everything you need to do. Our tips will help you avoid headaches and make your move out of Fort Lauderdale smooth. Leaving behind the beaches and palm trees doesn't have to be stressful with the right preparation. 

 

1) Research Moving Companies and Reserve Your Choice: 

 

Hiring professional movers, especially for long-distance relocations, can make the overall process infinitely smoother. Take time 4-6 weeks before moving day to research different moving companies thoroughly. Get estimates and compare prices.  

 

• Key factors to evaluate include: 
• Years of experience 
• Licensed and insured 
• Strong customer reviews  
• Services offered (packing, unpacking, etc) 
• Storage options if needed 

 

Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true, as quality can suffer. A moving company should do an on-site assessment before providing an estimate. Discuss your specific needs and timeline. A reputable Fort Lauderdale international moving company can provide personalized guidance for every move, whether across town or cross country. 

 

Once you select a mover, confirm your reservation and discuss logistics several weeks in advance. Many companies book up quickly, so you want to lock in a date and plan as soon as possible. Having trusted professionals handle the heavy lifting lets you focus on other moving tasks. 

 

2) Notify Important Parties of Your Move: 

 

Don't underestimate the number of notifications required when relocating. A month or more before moving day, inform any necessary parties about your new address.  

 

Be sure to update: 

 

• Employers  
• Banks 
• Credit card companies 
• Investment companies 
• Insurance providers 
• Utility companies 
• Doctor/dentist offices 
• Gym memberships 
• Post office to forward mail 
• Magazine subscriptions 
• Friends and family 

 

For many accounts, you can change contact information online. Track all the notifications you make. Follow up with a confirmation phone call when needed.  

 

Order new checks with your updated address as well if needed. You want as smooth a transition as possible with any services, bills, and correspondence. 

 

 

3) Plan Your Packing Strategy: 

 

Packing is one of the biggest undertakings when moving. Break this large task down into smaller daily goals to prevent feeling overwhelmed.  

 

Aim to pack one room or category each day over several weeks. Allow 2-3 hours for each room. This staggered approach helps you see progress while keeping clutter contained. Adapt your schedule as needed if you hit time crunches. 

 

Gather supplies - boxes, tape, packing paper, markers, etc. - well in advance. Disassemble furniture ahead of time. Wrap delicate items carefully. Label each box with contents and destination room to stay organized.  

 

Pack an “essentials” box with items you will need immediately in your new home - clothes, toiletries, medications, basic kitchen tools, pet supplies, valuable documents, and so on. This should be one of the last items loaded so it is readily accessible upon arrival. 

 

If hiring movers, confirm how far in advance they need boxes packed and ready to load. Try to finish general room packing 1-2 days ahead. Then, clean each room as it is emptied. A clean slate in your new home is a great fresh start. 

 

4) Address Any Home Repairs and Deep Cleaning: 

 

In preparation for both moving day and the new owners, you will want to thoroughly clean and repair your old home 4-6 weeks before your target move date. This includes: 

 

• Touch-up paint and plaster damage 
• Fix leaky faucets, appliances, doors, and anything broken 
• Replace worn-out carpet or laminate flooring if possible 
• Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures 
• Vacuum carpet and mop tile floors 
• Wipe down walls, baseboards, vents, and windows   
• Clean window blinds and wash windows inside and out 
• Scrub bathroom tile, tubs, showers, sinks, and fixtures 
• Remove any nails, hooks, and wall anchors 
• Patch holes, anchors, and any other wall damage 
• Deep clean the kitchen cabinets, counters, sink, oven, etc 
• Vacuum and wipe out the refrigerator and freezer 
• Launder all linens and curtains   
• Have carpets professionally cleaned 
• Schedule a lawn care and landscaping service 
• Power wash outdoor patios, decks, and siding if needed 

 

Completing these repairs and deep cleaning before inspections makes the sales process smoother. This checklist transforms the property from lived-in to ready-to-sell. 

 

5) Coordinate New Services and Accounts: 

 

To set up your new household smoothly, contact service providers 2-4 weeks before moving to schedule installation and activation on move-in day. Services may include: 

 

• Internet and cable/satellite TV 
• Home security monitoring 
• Electric, gas, water, sewer 
• Trash collection 
• Landscaping and/or snow removal 

 

Ask what is already active in the new property if possible. Forward mail from your old address to the new address. Change your address with the DMV for your license and auto insurance policy. 

 

Consider a thorough home inspection of the new property prior to move-in day. This can identify any repairs or upgrades needed so issues can be proactively addressed. 

 

6) Update Important Documents and Records:  

 

Once settled in your new home, continue to tie up loose ends by updating your address on any lingering accounts, memberships, and records.  

 

Some examples include: 

 

• Driver's license 
• Vehicle registration and insurance 
• Voter registration   
• IRS, payroll, benefits, and tax records 
• All bills, statements, and accounts 
• Professional licenses 
• Memberships - gym, alumni groups, etc 
• Frequent flyer and rewards programs 
• References - babysitters, contractors, etc 
• Apps, online profiles, and logins 

 

Updating all these details may take several weeks post-move. Maintain a master checklist and track each item to ensure no loose ends are forgotten. This organizational step cements your transition to your exciting new home location. 

 

Conclusion: 

 

While moving requires significant planning and effort, breaking the process down into specific, actionable steps makes it far more manageable and efficient. Implementing this comprehensive house move checklist well in advance allows you to tackle necessary tasks in a steady, controlled manner. Before you know it, you will be settled happily in your new dream home thanks to your diligent organization and preparation. Use this checklist as your roadmap to a smooth, successful moving transition.