Moving to a new home can feel like a big challenge, but with a good plan, you can make it much easier and even fun. Here’s the ultimate checklist to help homeowners through every step of the move.
Table of Contents
1. Two Months Before the Move: Plan and Organize
- Create a Moving Binder: Use it to store all documents, receipts, and your checklist.
- Declutter Your Home: Sort items into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “trash” piles. This reduces moving costs and makes packing easier.
- Research Moving Companies: Get quotes from at least three professional movers. Verify licensing, insurance, and reviews.
- Start Budgeting: Plan for moving costs, including supplies, services, and potential storage.
Pro Tip: Schedule your move during off-peak times to save money.
2. Six Weeks Before the Move: Notify and Sort
- Change of Address: Update your address with the post office, banks, subscriptions, and insurance providers.
- Gather Moving Supplies: Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Don’t forget specialty items like wardrobe boxes.
- Inventory Your Belongings: Document items of value for insurance purposes and easier unpacking.
- Donate or Sell Unneeded Items: Host a garage sale or list items online for extra cash.
Pro Tip: Label boxes with their room and contents to simplify unpacking.
3. One Month Before the Move: Pack and Prep
- Begin Packing Non-Essentials: Start packing the things you don’t use often, like seasonal clothes and decorations.
- Prepare for Moving Day: Schedule utility shut-offs at your current home and connections at your new one.
- Handle Special Items: Arrange for the proper transport of valuables, plants, and hazardous materials.
- Confirm with Movers: Finalize dates and services, ensuring a clear understanding of your moving contract.
Pro Tip: Use towels and linens as padding for fragile items to save on packing supplies.
4. One Week Before the Move: Final Touches
- Pack Essentials Kit: Include clothes, toiletries, medications, and important documents for easy access.
- Defrost the Freezer: Empty and clean out your fridge and freezer to avoid spills during transport.
- Confirm Moving Day Details: Double-check the arrival time with your movers and prepare a list of instructions for them.
- Clean Your Home: Leave your current home in good condition for the next occupants.
Pro Tip: Label “open first” boxes with essentials like kitchen supplies and bedding.
5. Moving Day: Execution
- Be Available for Questions: Stay on-site to answer any questions from movers and supervise loading.
- Do a Final Walkthrough: Check every room, closet, and storage area to ensure nothing is left behind.
- Tip the Movers: Show appreciation for their hard work with a tip or refreshments.
Pro Tip: Take photos of your empty home and your belongings for documentation.
6. After the Move: Settle In
- Unpack Strategically: Start with essential rooms like the kitchen and bedrooms.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your belongings and report any issues to your moving company promptly.
- Meet the Neighbors: Introduce yourself to the neighborhood to start building connections.
Pro Tip: Keep your moving binder handy to cross-reference during unpacking.
Ready to Move? Albert’s Relocation Is Here to Help
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful with the right help. At Albert’s Relocation, we make moving easy for homeowners. Whether it’s packing up or unpacking at your new place, we’ve got everything covered. Get in touch with us at (954) 226-7912, visit our website, or check out our Google Maps listing to get started.
Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can enjoy your new home!