The Ten Most Forgotten Items

With more than 43 million Americans planning to move this year, odds are that even the most organized person may not remember every detail of a move, or every item. Remembering the “out of sight, out of mind” objects increases your success in moving all of your belongings. Mayflower suggests adding the following 10 items to the top of your preparation list:      

1. Medical records: Don't forget to obtain copies of your family's medical records. This includes any dental and vaccine/ immunization information, as well as any veterinary records for the family pet. While you are at it, it is also a good idea to transfer any current prescriptions to a drugstore in your new town.

2. School records: Another record you will want to be sure to remember is your child's permanent school record. This is usually required to register your child at his/ her new school. Often, copies are not sufficient and the original document with a raised seal is required.

3. Buried treasure: If you've hidden any valuables around the house, be sure to collect them before leaving. You should carry valuable items such as jewelry with you or keep them in a safe deposit box instead of packing them on the moving van.

4. Taken to the cleaners: Remember to collect all items that are being cleaned, stored or repaired (for example, dry cleaning, shoes, watches, etc.). Also, remember to return library books, movie rentals and anything else you may have checked out.

5. What's your new address? Keep your new address handy in your wallet or purse. In the flurry of preparing for a move, you may forget your new address. Having it easily accessible will be important when forwarding periodicals, mail and credit card bills, as well as keeping in touch with old friends.

6. Cleaning supplies: Remember to leave out cleaning supplies for the final “once-over” before closing the door for good, or make arrangements in advance for a service to clean for you. Hopefully you won't have to clean your new residence upon arrival, but if you do, having your cleaning supplies handy will also help to make this task a little less stressful.

7. Garage door opener: People often forget to take the garage door opener out of their automobile before leaving. Remember to leave the opener for the new residents.

8. Pets/ plants: Most moving companies cannot transport animals or plants. Plan ahead and make arrangements for their safe transfer.

9. Bank on it: Make sure that your current bank has a branch in your new town. If it does not, consider opening a checking account in your new town about a month prior to your move so that you have immediate access to your funds. This enables you to have a little cash on hand for unexpected expenses. On occasion, retailers will decline to cash “out-of-town” checks.

10. Keys: Remember to collect all of your spare house keys. Whether it means retrieving keys from neighbors or from under the rock next to the front door, don't forget to gather all sets before you depart.