Preparing to move

There are a number of preparatory tasks that should be done prior to moving.  Below is a list - often forgotten and not mentioned in other blogs or moving tips - that you will want to consider doing before you relocate:

• Notifying the USPS of your change of address
• Coordinating with utility companies on turn-off and turn-on 
• Coordinating with cable/sat TV providers of turn-off and turn-on
• Cleaning out refrigerator and freezer of all items you don't want to have to move
• Having a yard sale or posting items on classified ad boards of things you could sell vs having to move
• Canceling home-based services, such as cleaners, yard care, etc.  
• Organizing clothing according to packing containers; boxes are good for most items but wardrobe boxes are a must for items that must stay hung up
• Scheduling a cleaning service to clean you prior residence after the move and your new residence before you move in
• Scheduling with pet boarders or sitters to watch your pets during the move
• Moving smaller items yourself days or even weeks prior to your move
• Obtaining moving estimates from a number of moving companies in Davenport
• Checking moving companies insurance and licensing information
• Performing any repair or upgrade to your prior or new residence after you move out or prior to moving in, respectively - some major repairs or upgrades are easier to perform when the residence is empty and unoccupied
• Having home inspections done early enough so that repairs can be perform prior to moving in
• Submitting change of addresses to any subscription services, such as magazines, weekly/monthly food deliveries, etc.  
• Notifying friends and family of move dates and new occupancy date
• Coordinating with local school districts, in terms of your children's first day of school.

We have found some of these items are often overlooked by our clients.  Consider this list the next time your are planning a local or long distance move from/to Davenport, IA or the great Quad Cities area.