6 Moving Tips For A Smooth Transition

So you're packing up and moving to a new neighborhood, but have you done everything you need to before you say goodbye? Go over your checklist (you should have one). You're very likely missing some crucial items that will save you a lot of hassle after you've shifted your furniture and settled into your new home. Moving to a new house isn't just about lugging couches and collecting your deposit. Here are six things you may have forgotten.

1. School
If you have children and are switching districts or schools, simplify the transition by collecting all of your paperwork in advance. The old school will likely forward any documents over, but it's handy to have copies on hand in case something goes missing. Request transcripts, immunization records, and any other necessary paperwork such as health forms and keep them filed together. You may also need copies or information pertaining to standardized test scores as children may be placed in incorrect academic levels once the new semesters begin.

2. Post
Changing your postal address takes time, so don't wait until the day you move. Check with your local office as to how long it will take to readdress your mail and follow their guidelines. If they say it takes two weeks to process, make sure you get it in two weeks before your moving date. If you have a neighbor you trust, ask them to collect any leftover mail that may have got stuck in transit.

3. Utilities
Nothing is worse than sitting in a new house in the dark for a couple of days. Why not have the power arranged to be connected the day before you arrive? You may wish to do the same with the cable, landlines, Internet access, or any other services. Be sure to disconnect your current ones as well as return any rented electronic devices such as digital boxes and remotes. If you disconnect and don't return the required items, you may be charged for them.

4. Banking
If you're a member of a credit union or smaller bank, it may make more sense to switch your accounts to a new provider. If you're a loyal customer, ask the tellers about Internet and phone services available so you won't be stuck making long commutes that you will quickly grow to resent.

5. Update
Do you rely on Internet shopping? If so, remember to update your default delivery addresses on the websites you use. People often don't review the shipping info, and changing it after the fact can be a pain. Change it early on your most used sites and you won't have to worry about unpleasant mistakes.

6. Deposit
Did you clean the home thoroughly from top to bottom? Did you take photos? Some landlords love to keep an icy grip on deposits, making unreasonable deductions for standard wear and tear. Having photographs is valuable and cheap security against cheating landlords. Cleaning will also help prevent your deposit being snapped up on overpriced professional services.