Planning a big move to a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. Luckily, we’re experts at making the move to a senior living community feel like smooth sailing. The easiest transitions start with a checklist and an understanding of the available senior moving services in your area.
Moving Checklist for Seniors
The best moving checklists include a timeline. Moving is a significant undertaking and the earlier you plan it out, the less headaches you’ll have down the road. This is especially important if you or your loved one has lived in the same home for many years as there might be more clothing, furniture, and other items to go through.
Outline the important tasks, deadlines, and milestones. This will help you stay on track and organized throughout the process. Now it’s time to get your home ready.
Two months before move in
The longer timeline you give yourself the better, but a good rule of thumb is begin two months before your expected move in date. This will give you enough time to set an actual date and learn about what time of day and the week you can move in. Two months before you move you should complete the following tasks:
| ___ | Finalize any paperwork needed for move in |
| ___ | Begin researching senior moving services |
| ___ | Plan to get three price quotes from different companies on moving and shipping services |
| ___ | Establish the dimensions of your new apartment and create a floor plan |
| ___ | Start sorting your household items into three groups: Keep, Donate, Trash |
| ___ | Order boxes, packing tape, bubble-wrap, and other packing supplies. |
| ___ | Fill out USPS change of address paperwork. |
Sorting items can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Hold a garage sale to sell some of your items or order a dumpster to make junk removal easier. You can also reserve storage units if necessary.
One month before move in
With many of the major tasks either done or set in motion, spend your next month getting minor items in order.
| ___ | Notify physicians of relocation |
| ___ | Schedule utility disconnection |
| ___ | Pack non-essentials like towels, linens, dishware |
| ___ | Notify your insurance, credit card company, social security, vehicle registration, pharmacy, and bank of your change of address |
| ___ | Cancel or change magazine and newspaper subscriptions |
One to two weeks before move in
Now that all your ducks are in a row it’s time to double check everything is ready for your big move.
| ___ | Confirm moving arrangements |
| ___ | Pack a bag with essentials that can get you through a few days until all your items are unpacked |
| ___ | Refill any prescriptions |
| ___ | Coordinate with your new community on move in requirements for furniture |
Moving day
The day is finally here! It’s time to gather up any last belongings and get ready to embrace the next chapter of your life.
| ___ | Supervise the move |
| ___ | Say farewell |
| ___ | Unpack essentials for kitchen, bathroom, and living room |
After the move
Once you’ve got all your items moved into your new home take a moment to appreciate this new and exciting moment in your life—you did it! Make sure to take one last look at your former home once everything has been moved out.
Senior Moving Services
Creating a checklist for your move will make your transition less overwhelming and more exciting as you look forward to your new home. Be sure to check out our eBook or the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers on what you need to know about making a move to senior living.
If you’re still in the process of selling your home, we’ve got you covered with tips on how to sell a senior’s home and tips for downsizing before a move too.
With Five Star Senior Living, we know it’s challenging to downsize your home, but we’re here to help you make the move and up-sizing your lifestyle with a world of choice, unparalleled comfort, and a community that empowers you. Find your community today.
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