If you’re moving soon — whether nearby, across the country, or around the globe — there is a slew of details that require your attention before Moving Day. How can you ever keep track of it all?

We’ve got you covered, with our simple checklist for one specific area: the utilities. Sure, it might not be a glamorous “to-do” item, but it’s certainly essential, especially if you like hot water and electricity.

What’s important to remember is that just like any power switch, you’ll need to turn utilities both on (at the new place)and off (at the old place.)

Try to think through each of your monthly expenses in your current place, so you can begin to cancel them. Now is also the time to do a little comparison shopping and research competitor rates before you move into the new space (if they’re available in your area, or if you wish to bundle your cable and Internet, for example).

You might want to keep a list using an online document, a note on your phone, or even a simple notebook with each company’s contact information, your account number, and the dates for connecting or disconnecting service.

Here’s who you’ll want to contact, at least two weeks prior to your move:

  • Cable/ Satellite TV
  • Internet
  • Water and sewer
  • Gas or heat
  • Electricity
  • Security System
  • Trash & city services
  • Phone (if you have a home phone line, home office line, or VoIP)
  • Mobile phone (to verify the billing address for a mobile phone or possibly bundle with Internet)
  • Satellite radio (to update the billing address)

For companies that require an in-home appointment to turn on or turn off services, like cable TV or an in-home security system, try to contact them at least one month in advance. And keep in mind, peak service times might require more wait time. The water and sewer service will likely be handled by your city.