What Are Things People Often Forget During Their Move?
No matter how carefully home buyers plan, there are always a few important details that tend to slip through the cracks. Moving into a new home is exciting—but with so much to handle, it’s easy to overlook small yet essential tasks that can make your transition smoother.
To help you avoid unnecessary stress, here are some of the most commonly forgotten tasks when moving and how to handle them ahead of time.
1. Check Your Banking Situation
Before you move, check whether your current bank has a branch near your new home. If it doesn’t, you may need to open an account with a new financial institution—especially if your bank is regional.
Don’t forget to empty your safety deposit box and take any important documents with you. Updating your billing address and automatic payments should also be part of your moving checklist.
2. Handle Your Medical Needs Early
If you take prescription medication, have your doctor send your prescriptions to a pharmacy in your new city before you move. This ensures you won’t run out while settling in.
Keep your old doctor’s contact information handy in case you need to transfer medical records or ask questions later.
If you’re staying on the same insurance plan, make sure to find local doctors that accept your coverage. Otherwise, update your health insurance before your move to avoid gaps in care.
3. Transfer or Cancel Local Memberships
Before moving, remember to cancel or transfer any memberships—such as gyms, community centers, professional organizations, or clubs.
Check your membership terms for early cancellation fees and factor those costs into your moving budget.
4. Get Copies of School Records
If you have children, contact their current school to request copies of all records and transcripts before you move. Having them on hand makes enrolling in a new school much easier and helps avoid delays in the registration process.
5. Clear Out the Kitchen
About a month before moving, begin using up frozen and perishable foods to minimize waste. Unopened non-perishable items that you don’t plan to take can be donated to a local food pantry.
Transporting food adds unnecessary weight (and cost) to your move, so the less you have to pack, the better.
6. Prepare Your Vehicle
If you’re driving to your new home, get your car tuned up before the trip to avoid breakdowns on the road.
Ask your current mechanic if they can recommend someone near your new area. For long-distance moves, check tire pressure, fluid levels, and make sure your emergency kit is stocked.
