How Much Moving Notice To Give

How Much Notice To Give When Moving Out

WHEN TO LET THEM KNOW

When moving, how much notice do you need to give people like your landlord, utility companies, and other services connected to your home? How long does it take to move? This mainly applies to renters, as when you own a home, you will likely sell it before moving. However, even if you are a homeowner there are still likely some services you will need to cancel or transfer over to your new home.

If you are a renter, your lease document probably has specified how much notice you need to give. A common amount of time is 30 days. This gives your landlord enough time to find a new renter for your apartment, or to hire workers to repaint it the moment you move out.

How you let them know depends on your situation. Some leases may stipulate that you need to contact your landlord in writing. This could mean a letter mailed or an e-mail sent. Other leases may allow you to call or text your landlord to let them know when you will be moving out. It is usually a good idea to give notice in writing so that there is a record you can refer back to if you need one.

HOW MUCH NOTICE TO GIVE UTILITIES WHEN MOVING

Many utilities can shut off or start services in as few as 2 days. However, just to be safe, it is usually a good idea to put in your request to end or start services at least 2 weeks before you will move. This will ensure that you get the services you need when you need them and you don’t get billed for any that you don’t use on the other end.

Depending on your internet company, it may take a few weeks to get an appointment to set up service, so if you need to work from home, you may want to make your request for that as much as a month in advance.

WHEN TO GIVE A POST OFFICE MOVING NOTICE

In the US, you can set the dates of mail forwarding, so you can set it up as soon as you know you will need it. You can also submit your change of address form and set the date you want it to start on the USPS website. Other countries may have other policies so if you are moving to a different country, be sure to research the local policies.

WHAT IF YOU NEED TO MOVE ON SHORT NOTICE?

Moving on short notice can be challenging, because there are many moving parts that you need to organize. However, it is possible as long as you stay organized and contact everyone you need to notify as soon as possible. If you do need to move quickly, a professional moving company can still be a great help. Just make sure to get quotes as soon as possible to get your moving date locked in with your preferred moving company.

HOW MUCH NOTICE DOES A MOVING COMPANY NEED?

Perhaps the most important part of the day you move is the moving company. How much notice to give them depends on what city you are in, what time of year you are moving, and the day of the month you will be moving. There are more moves towards the end and beginning of the month than the middle, and bigger cities have a greater demand for movers than smaller ones. So, if possible, book your movers at least 2 weeks before your move. Ideally, you would book them several months before, but if you decide to move on short notice, that may not be possible.

DO YOU NEED TO SEND OUT MOVING ANNOUNCEMENTS?

After you’ve moved, it’s a good idea to send out a moving announcement so everyone knows your new address. These can be as simple as pre-printed postcards. Mail them to friends, family, coworkers, and anyone else who might want to send you mail. Send it out either a few days before you move, or just after, so that you will be able to receive any returned mail to your new address. That way everyone will know where to send holiday cards or housewarming gifts.

Whether you have a few weeks’ notice or several months, we can help with your next move. Contact us to get more information!