Have you ever had the dreaded feeling that you, despite getting everything done, managed to forget something? In the rush to get everything squared away before the big move, it's easy to forget about little details. Here are a few things that you should always remember to do before you move out of your current home.
Cancel Those Recurring Charges and Contracts
When you're wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of moving, it's easy to forget about recurring charges for local memberships and subscription services. Allowing these to go on throughout your move can end up being a waste of money, especially if they go unused during the move. It's a good idea to cancel these services weeks ahead of the move, especially if the contracts require early notice prior to termination.
Keep in mind that some memberships and subscription services can be transferred from one location to another. If your local gym has a location near your new residence, for example, you can arrange for your current membership to be transferred to that location.
In some cases, breaking your membership or subscription contract early can result in extra fees. If you can, you may want to consider transferring or selling your membership to someone else prior to moving.
Make Sure Your Credit Card Has Your New Address
If you haven't changed the address on your credit or debit card, then you may end up with statements and other important documents going to your old address instead of your new one. In addition, certain recurring charges may end up being canceled due to the discrepancy in billing addresses. Always make sure your billing and mailing information is up to date before you set off for your new home.
Update Your Auto Insurance Coverage
Moving from one state to another not only means changes in your vehicle's registration, but it also means having to change your auto insurance coverage. Different states have different liability coverage requirements and having too little coverage could leave you in financial jeopardy in the event of an accident. It's a good idea to sit down with your insurance agent and find out how much coverage you need at your new address.
If your current auto insurance provider is not available in the state you're moving to, now is the time to shop for a provider that offers service in that state. Don't hesitate to get quotes from multiple auto insurance providers, as a comparison can help you get the best possible rates.
Setup Your Utilities in Your New Residence
It's amazing how so many people forget to do this, only to arrive at their new residence without any utilities in place. Being without gas, electricity or water can put a serious damper on moving into your new place, so it's always a good idea to have your utilities connected and paid for at least a month in advance. If your current utility company offers service in your new area, you can arrange to have your current service switched over from one residence to another without having to close your account.
Fill Out and Submit a "Change of Address" Form
Before you leave, don't forget to fill out and submit a "change of address" form to the USPS. You can do this in person at your local post office or fill out an online form at the USPS website. Either way, this should be done at least a couple of weeks before you move out of your old residence. This way, your mail will arrive at your new address at around the same time you move all of your belongings into your new place.
You should also let your friends and relatives know about your new address. Resist the urge to make your announcement via social media -- after all, you don't want to broadcast your new address to the whole world. Instead, you can let your friends and family know via e-mail or even through moving announcements sent through the mail. For more tips, contact a company like Wheaton World Wide Moving.
