No matter how big of a move you are making, it can be a very stressful time. Getting your boxes packed and ready with all your stuff and tidying up your prior residence can take up most of your waking hours during a move. You go through your list of to-do’s and realize: I need to make sure my mail is forwarded to my new address, what do I do? Well, fear not! Changing your address is a multi-step process, but it is vital in ensuring your bills, personal correspondence and more all reach you, rather than a stranger.
Before doing anything, be sure to sit down and list as many of the companies, people, and organizations you need to contact to inform of your new address. Go through billing statements, catalogs, online subscriptions, etc. for the places you need to contact. Once you have your initial list, go through the steps below to help forward your mail and catch those companies that you might have missed the first time around.
1. USPS: Update your mailing address with the United States Postal Service first. Visit the USPS’s official change of address website or go to your local post office for the physical form (if done online there is a $1 fee for identity verification). While this may not catch every piece of mail going to your old address, the USPS will forward as much mail as they receive to your new address for six months, giving you time to communicate your change of address to friends, family, and companies.
2. Magazine: If you have magazine subscriptions, be sure to contact the company and update your new address with them.
3. Credit Cards: Update every business you have a credit card with immediately. Many stores and even gas stations require a zip code verification before your card is charged for a purchase. This also ensures that any mail you get from your credit card company goes to the correct address. Even if you do not receive paper statements, promotional materials sent to you can still contain your sensitive information. Your personal bank needs to be updated as well, even if you do not receive paper statements from them either.
4. Online Profiles: If you are a frequent online shopper and save your billing and shipping address with online sites, don't forget to change them! Many sites utilize one-click purchasing and forego the usual checking of billing and shipping addresses, so be sure to change the address on each website you use to ensure your purchase reaches the right address.
5. Family & Friends: Let family and friends know of your move and new address as well. This might be a no-brainer, but they can be easily overlooked in a change of address notification.
6. DMV: Check in with the DMV for a new driver's license with your updated info, especially if you are moving to a new state. Most states grant you a 30-day grace period after your move to update your license, and some will even fine you if you fail to do so. Call or visit your state DMV website to learn more.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to having peace-of-mind that all your important mail reaches the right destination after your move. If finding a way to move your stuff is your biggest challenge, check us out online or give us a call at 1-800-PACK-RAT for our local and long distance moving solutions. Be sure to also check out our moving checklist as well to help plan your move down to the smallest detail!