The Ultimate Moving Checklist
If you don’t have a moving checklist, you need one! It’s the best way to ensure nothing is overlooked, and everything goes smoothly. We’ve created this simple, customizable list of moving to-do’s to help you streamline your upcoming move.
1. Decide What Type of Move is Best for You
Will you hire a moving company, rent a truck, or use a shipping container? Each type of move has its own pros and cons, and there are several factors to consider when making a selection. Budget, distance, and the quantity of stuff you have to move will likely be the determining factors.
2. Make sure to pack an essentials box with items that you will need on your first days in your new home, such as toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes.
Packing an essentials box is vital for your move because it will contain items that you will need on your first day in your new home. This could include toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes. By having these items packed and ready to go, you can avoid the stress of having to search for them on the day of your move.
3. Notify your utility companies of your move and set up service at your new address.
When moving to a new address, it is essential to notify your utility companies so that you can set up service at your new location. Utility companies can include but are not limited to electric, gas, water, trash, and cable/internet providers.
It is important to notify these companies ahead of time, so your service can be set up and running by the time you move in. If you wait until after you’ve moved, there may be a delay in getting your utilities turned on, and trust us; you do not want to move in only to find out the toilet won’t flush!
4. Arrange for your mail to be forwarded to your new address.
To have your mail forwarded to your new address, you will need to contact your local post office and fill out a change of address form. This form will need to include your old address, your new address, and the date you would like your mail forwarded. Once the form is filled out and submitted, your mail should start being forwarded to your new address within 5-7 business days.
5. Pack a box of items you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home, such as bedding, towels, and cleaning supplies.
When you arrive at your new home, you will need to have a few things on hand in order to be comfortable. Make sure to pack bedding, towels, and cleaning supplies in a box so that you can easily find them when you need them.
It is also a good idea to have some snacks and drinks available to stay hydrated and energized while unpacking.
6. Label all boxes with their contents and the room they should be in at your new home.
When packing up your belongings to move to a new home, it is essential to label all of the boxes with their contents and the room they should be placed in at your new home. This will save you a lot of time and hassle when unpacking and settling into your new place.
To label the boxes, simply write out what is inside them and which room it goes in on a piece of tape or paper and attach it to the outside of the box. If you have a lot of boxes, create a key or code system so that you can keep track of everything more easily.
It is also a good idea to number the boxes so you can keep track of them as they are being moved and unloaded into your new home. This will ensure that your belongings are kept in the move.
7. Make sure to defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer several days before your move so that you can easily clean and pack them up.
Make sure to defrost your refrigerator and freezer several days before your move. This will make it easier to clean them out and pack them up, especially if they will be moving with you to your new home. Be sure to throw away any food that has gone bad or that you won’t be able to eat before the move.
8. Take measurements of all large furniture pieces so that you can ensure they will fit in your new home.
Take measurements of all large furniture pieces so that you can ensure they will fit in your new home. This is important because you don’t want to buy new furniture only to find out it doesn’t fit in your new place.
Measure the width, height, and depth of each piece. If possible, take a photo of the piece so that you can easily reference it later, especially if you’ve had to disassemble it to pack.
9. Have cash on hand for tipping movers, as well as for any unexpected expenses that may come up during the move.
Make sure to have cash available for tipping your movers (if applicable), as well as for any unexpected expenses that could come up during the move. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and have more money available than you think you’ll need, just in case something comes up if something unexpected occurs during the move (such as damage to your belongings or property); having cash available will make it easier to deal with the situation. You can use cash to pay for repairs or replacements or to cover any other unexpected costs that may arise.
10. Expect the Unexpected
Stuff happens. Padding your travel arrangements or moving dates with an extra day or two can be the difference between calm and catastrophe. By planning as much as possible, you can minimize unforeseen circumstances and have enough time to fix any hiccups along the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Still not sure where to start? That’s why the Moving Experts are here! Contact us today to get started!
