Whether you are moving to a different state or just across town, it can be easy to overlook things that should get done BEFORE you start life in a new home.

2 months before your move…

Collect Boxes – Start collecting boxes that you’re going to need to transport your belongings to the new location. Ask your friends or family, especially if they have just recently moved. Checking craigslist or even asking local businesses if they have any gently used boxes can help you out so you don’t have to spend any cash.

Pack Rarely Used Items  - Go through your attic or basement to start packing up things that you rarely use. After that, try going through one room at a time – starting with a guest room. While you’re at it, put aside unwanted items that you haven’t used in over a year. Getting this done 2 months ahead of time might seem a little advanced, but as the date approaches, you’ll be busy with many other things.

Have a Yard Sale  - Those unwanted items that you put aside when going through the rooms? Make a little extra cash and sell them at a yard sale or even on Craigslist. If having a yard sale isn’t something you’re interested in, donate the items to a local thrift store.

2 weeks before your move…

Notify People – If you haven’t already notified your friends and family of your upcoming move, now is the time to do so.  You don’t want to miss out on any holiday or birthday cards! Send out a mass email to your contacts list with your new address or do it the old-fashioned way and send out some snail mail.  In addition, it’s best to go to the post office and choose a date to start forwarding your mail.

Stop Grocery Shopping – You don’t want to waste money or food by having too much of it when you’re ready to move out of your house.  Go through your freezer and your pantry and be creative with what your meals, you might even find a new recipe you enjoy!

2 days before your move…

Pack Essentials Box – Pack everything that you would need for the first night in your new home such as sheets, a pillow, dishware, cups, toiletries, your phone charger and anything else you can’t go a day without.