What to Do if Your Move is Postponed

The big move was only 4 weeks away. Then, due to unforeseen circumstances, you find out that you won’t be moving for another couple of months.

Having a delay in your move can certainly complicate matters. Maybe the construction of your home isn't complete, or the previous owner had a family emergency and can't vacate the home as scheduled, or there’s a delay in the start of a new job. Whatever the reason, it's time to regroup. And, if you've been preparing for moving day, at least you're ahead of the game.

Now what can you do with those extra few weeks (or months)? How are you supposed to live out of half packed boxes for the time being? Here are a few ideas on how to get through this setback and make lemonade with those lemons.

• First, notify your landlord, or whoever would be managing or moving into your current premises, and determine whether you can stay in your current housing until the new move date. If not arrange alternate housing: stay with family or friends, or find temporary housing.
• Reschedule your move as required with your van line or truck rental company.
• Postpone any utilities disconnections and hookups that you had arranged.
• If you've ordered furniture, blinds or other items directly from a manufacturer, let them know about your postponement and schedule a new delivery date.
• If your change of address has already gone through, make sure you can get mail at the new address.
• Check to be sure you've changed your insurance, e.g., extending renters insurance and postponing the start of your homeowners insurance.
• Take advantage of sales that come up to buy things you will need in the new house, e.g., ceiling fans, shower curtains, etc. This will also help to spread out expenses.
• If you're moving out of state, spend some extra time with the people you'll be leaving behind.
• If you’re moving far away, do some local things that up until now you wish you'd had time for: visit a local museum, gallery or natural attraction; have dinner at that restaurant you always wanted to try.
• Take the time to have a garage sale and make some money from the things you no longer need.
• Pack things properly and take inventory of each box.
• Learn more about the new area you're moving to by researching on the Internet, reading books or looking at maps.
• If your spouse is looking for work in the new area, start the job search and get interviews lined up.

By having this extra time before you move you'll have the chance to get things done leisurely and efficiently.