1. Planning and Preparation
- Create a Moving Binder
- Collect important documents: contracts, receipts, inventory lists.
- Keep a calendar for important dates.
- Set a Moving Budget
- Calculate all expected costs: movers, packing supplies, cleaning services.
- Choose a Moving Date
- Consider work schedules, school calendars, and lease end/start dates.
2. Hiring Movers or Renting a Truck
- Research Moving Companies
- Get quotes from multiple companies.
- Check reviews and references.
- Confirm insurance coverage.
- Book the Moving Company or Rental Truck
- Reserve well in advance, especially for peak seasons.
3. Decluttering and Sorting
- Sort Belongings by Category
- Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash.
- Host a Garage Sale or Sell Online
- Use local marketplaces or online platforms.
- Donate Unwanted Items
- Arrange for pick-up or drop-off at donation centers.
4. Gather Packing Supplies
- Collect Boxes
- Various sizes, sturdy, and clean.
- Packing Materials
- Bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, markers, labels.
- Specialty Supplies
- Wardrobe boxes, dish packs, mattress covers.
5. Start Packing
- Begin with Non-Essentials
- Pack items you use less frequently first.
- Label Boxes Clearly
- Indicate contents and destination room.
- Pack Room by Room
- Focus on one area at a time to stay organized.
- Keep Valuables Separate
- Pack and transport personal documents, jewelry, and valuables yourself.
6. Notify Important Parties
- Change of Address
- Post office, banks, credit cards, subscriptions, and online accounts.
- Inform Utility Companies
- Schedule disconnection and reconnection for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable.
- Update Insurance
- Notify your home and auto insurance providers of the move.
7. Prepare Your New Home
- Clean the New House
- Deep clean before moving in if possible.
- Check Repairs and Maintenance
- Ensure everything is in working order.
- Arrange for Utilities
- Ensure utilities are set up and active before moving day.
8. Final Preparations
- Pack an Essentials Box
- Include items you’ll need immediately: toiletries, clothes, medications, important documents.
- Plan for Pets and Children
- Arrange for care on moving day if needed.
- Prepare Appliances
- Defrost fridge/freezer, disconnect and clean appliances.
9. Moving Day
- Confirm Details with Movers
- Double-check arrival time and contact information.
- Final Walkthrough
- Ensure nothing is left behind, check all rooms, closets, and cabinets.
- Supervise the Move
- Be present to direct movers and answer questions.
10. After the Move
- Unpack Essentials First
- Start with bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms.
- Inspect for Damages
- Document and report any issues immediately.
- Settle into Your New Home
- Arrange furniture, set up utilities, and get acquainted with your new neighborhood.
11. Post-Move Tasks
- Update Your Address
- DMV, voter registration, and any remaining subscriptions or accounts.
- Recycle Packing Materials
- Break down boxes and recycle or donate them.
- Leave a Review
- Provide feedback for your moving company.
By following this checklist, you can ensure a more organised and less stressful move.
