Moving Paperwork Explained
By Artur Camins
Researcher & Writer
March 6, 2023
6 min read
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In addition to the obvious packing and heavy lifting, moving also requires a mountain of administrative paperwork. From forwarding your mail to managing your utilities, there’s a lot to do before and after your actual moving day.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, there are a variety of documents you’ll need to keep track of. In this post, we’ll explain the most important documents you need when moving and how to manage them effectively.
Moving Paperwork Overview
Moving contract: a legal document that outlines the terms of your move, including the price and delivery date
Moving estimate: an estimate of the cost of your move based on the services you require
Inventory list: a list of all the items you’re moving
Bill of lading: a receipt for your goods that includes details about the shipment
Insurance policy: a document that outlines the coverage for your move
Change of address form: a form that notifies the post office of your new address
Various personal documents: driver’s license, social security card, passport, etc.
Moving Checklist – Moving involves lots of little details. Our complete moving checklist can help ensure that nothing gets overlooked.
Moving Cost Guide – Still in the beginning stages of your move? Our moving cost guide is the perfect pre-move budgeting article to get you started.
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How to Manage Your Moving Paperwork
📝 Give Notice to Your Landlord
If you’re renting your current home, you’ll need to give your landlord notice that you’re moving out. The amount of notice required will depend on your lease agreement, so make sure to check the terms carefully. Typically, you’ll need to give at least 30 days’ notice.
📝 Set Up Utility Cancellation and Start Dates
Before you move, you’ll need to cancel your utilities at your current home and set them up at your new one. Make sure to schedule the cancellation and start dates to avoid any gaps in service. Some of the utilities you’ll need to transfer include:
Electricity
Gas
Water
Cable/Internet
Phone
Forward Your Mail
📝 Inform Your Health Care Providers
If you have any ongoing medical treatments or conditions, you’ll need to inform your healthcare providers of your move. This will ensure that your medical records are transferred to your new provider and that there are no interruptions in your care. If you’re moving out of state, you may need to find new healthcare providers in your new area.
📝 Forwarding Medical Prescriptions
If you have any ongoing prescriptions, you’ll need to make arrangements to have them forwarded to your new pharmacy. This can usually be done by contacting your current pharmacy and providing them with the details of your new pharmacy.
📝 Update Your Address for Voting
If you’re registered to vote, you’ll need to update your address with your local election office. This will ensure that you’re able to vote in your new district. You can usually do this online or by filling out a form and mailing it to your election office.
📝 Inform Your Credit Card Companies and Banks
To avoid any issues with your finances, you’ll need to inform your credit card companies and banks of your new address. This will ensure that you continue to receive statements and other important information. You may also need to update your billing address for any automatic payments.
📝 Inform Your Children’s Current and Future Schools
If you have children, you’ll need to inform their current school of your move and arrange for their records to be transferred to their new school. You’ll also need to research and enroll them in a new school in your new area. Make sure to do this as soon as possible to avoid any interruptions to their education.
When transferring your children’s records, make sure to request copies of their transcripts, report cards, and any other important documents from their previous school. This information will be useful for their new school in placing them in the right classes and making sure they receive credit for completed coursework.
To find a new school in your area, you can check with the school district in your new location or do some research online. Look for schools with good ratings and reviews, and consider visiting the schools in person to get a feel for the environment and the teachers.
It’s important to involve your children in the moving process and help them prepare for the transition to a new school. Talk to them about the move, answer any questions they may have, and let them know what to expect. This can help them feel more comfortable and confident in their new environment.
📝 Update Your Address for Social Security and Medicare Benefits
If you receive Social Security or Medicare benefits, you’ll need to update your address with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure you continue to receive your benefits. You can update your address with the SSA by visiting their website or contacting your local Social Security office. You can update your address with the CMS by calling their toll-free number or visiting their website.
It’s important to update your address as soon as possible to avoid any delays or interruptions in your benefits. You should also make sure to update any other government agencies or programs that you may receive benefits from, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
📝 Get a New Driver’s License
When you move to a new state, you’ll need to obtain a new driver’s license. The requirements for getting a new driver’s license vary by state, so make sure to check the specific requirements for your new state.
In general, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security number. You may also need to pass a written and/or driving test. Make sure to bring all the necessary documents with you to the DMV when you apply for your new license.
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Recommended Resources
Moving can be a complex and overwhelming process, but there are resources available to help you manage your paperwork and stay organized.
Here are some helpful resources for managing your moving paperwork:
- U.S. Postal Service: You can forward your mail online or in person at your local post office.
- Social Security Administration: You can update your address online or by phone.
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: You can update your address online or by phone.
- Department of Motor Vehicles: Check the requirements for obtaining a new driver’s license in your new state.
- Internal Revenue Service: You can change your address with the IRS online or by mail.
- Federal Trade Commission: Find out how to protect yourself from identity theft during a move.
Conclusion
Managing your moving paperwork can be overwhelming, but it is an important part of the moving process. By staying organized and keeping track of all of your important documents, you can help ensure a smooth and successful move. Remember to update your address with various government agencies, healthcare providers, credit card companies, banks, and schools to avoid any delays or missed correspondence. Use the recommended resources and tips in this article to help you manage your moving paperwork and make your move as stress-free as possible.
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Faq
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need when moving?
When moving, you will need to keep track of a variety of documents, including your moving contract, moving estimate, and any receipts or invoices related to your move. You will also need to update your address with various government agencies, healthcare providers, credit card companies, banks, and schools.
How do I manage my moving paperwork?
To manage your moving paperwork, start by creating a file or folder to keep all of your important documents in one place. Keep track of your moving contract, moving estimate, receipts, and invoices. Update your address with various government agencies, healthcare providers, credit card companies, banks, and schools. Consider using a moving checklist to help you stay organized.
What should I do before moving?
Before moving, make sure you give notice to your landlord, set up utility cancellation and start dates, forward your mail, inform your healthcare providers, update your address for voting, inform your credit card companies and banks, inform your children’s current and future schools, update your address for Social Security and Medicare benefits, and get a new driver’s license.
How do I protect myself from identity theft during a move?
To protect yourself from identity theft during a move, be careful with your personal information. Shred any documents that contain personal information before throwing them away. Keep your important documents with you during the move rather than leaving them in a moving truck or storage unit. Be cautious of any unsolicited emails or phone calls asking for personal information.
What is a moving estimate?
A moving estimate is a document provided by a moving company that outlines the estimated cost of your move. Make sure to get a written estimate from your moving company and read it carefully to understand the details and costs associated with your move. There are generally two types of moving estimates: binding and non-binding estimates.
A binding estimate is a written agreement that guarantees the cost of your move will not exceed the estimated amount, even if the actual weight of your belongings is more than anticipated. This can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses. However, if you add items to your move or require additional services, the estimate may need to be updated, so make sure to communicate any changes with your moving company.
A non-binding estimate, on the other hand, is an approximation of the cost of your move based on the weight of your belongings and the services you require. The actual cost may vary depending on the actual weight of your items and the services provided. It’s important to note that a non-binding estimate can increase, but it cannot exceed 110% of the original estimate, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
It’s a good idea to get at least three estimates from different moving companies to compare costs and services offered. This can help you make an informed decision and find the best moving company for your needs and budget.
What other moving documents should I be aware of?
In addition to the moving estimate, there are several other documents that you should be aware of when moving:
Moving contract: This is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of your move, including the services provided, the cost, and the timeline. Make sure to read and understand the contract before signing it and keep a copy for your records.
Bill of lading: This is a receipt for your belongings and a contract between you and the moving company. It includes a description of the items being moved, the pickup and delivery dates, and the agreed-upon cost. Make sure to review the bill of lading before signing it and keep a copy for your records.
Inventory list: This is a detailed list of all the items being moved, including their condition and value. It’s important to review and sign the inventory list before the move and to keep a copy for your records.
Insurance documents: Moving companies are required to offer two types of insurance: released value protection and full value protection. Released value protection is included in the cost of your move and provides coverage for your belongings based on weight. Full value protection, on the other hand, provides more comprehensive coverage for your items. Make sure to review and understand the insurance options offered by your moving company and choose the one that best suits your needs.
By understanding these moving documents and taking the time to review and understand them, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Make sure to keep copies of all important documents and keep them in a safe place for future reference.