Preparing for Move day

To ensure a smooth move, here are 21 essential tasks to complete before moving day: create a budget, declutter, research and book movers, pack essentials, change your address, transfer utilities, and arrange for childcare or pet care. Also, remember to gather important documents, pack an open-first box, and clean your old home. Download the printable version here.

Part A: 14 Preparation and Planning Steps:

1. Set a Moving Budget:
Establish a realistic budget that covers all moving expenses, including transportation, packing supplies, and potential unexpected costs.

2. Declutter and Purge:
Get rid of unwanted items through donation, sale, or disposal to reduce the volume of belongings to be moved.

3. Research and Book Movers (if needed):
Secure reputable movers well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.

4. Create a Moving Calendar:
Schedule tasks and deadlines to stay organized and on track.

5. Make a Moving Inventory:
List all items being moved to ensure nothing gets left behind and for insurance purposes. Download the printable form here.

6. Change Your Address:
Notify relevant parties, including USPS, banks, and subscription services, about your new address.

7. Transfer Utilities:
Arrange for the transfer or setup of utilities at your new residence (electricity, gas, water, internet, etc.).

8. Arrange Childcare or Pet Care:
Plan for childcare or pet care during the moving process to minimize stress and ensure their safety.

9. Gather Important Documents:
Keep essential documents like IDs, insurance papers, and medical records in a safe and easily accessible place.

10. Pack an Open-First Box:
Pack a box with essential items like toiletries, medications, chargers, and a change of clothes for the first night in your new home.

11. Pack Strategically:
Pack items by room and label boxes clearly to streamline the unpacking process.

12. Utilize Moving Supplies:
Gather boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials to protect your belongings.

13. Secure Valuables:
Keep valuable items like jewelry, important documents, and electronics with you during the move to prevent loss or damage.

14. Clean Your Old Home:
Deep clean your previous residence after moving out to meet lease requirements or prepare it for sale.

Part B: 7 Moving Day Steps:

1. Confirm Moving Day Details:
Double-check the moving time, address, and contact information with your movers.

2. Prepare for Movers:
Ensure easy access for movers, clear pathways, and a designated area for loading and unloading.

3. Oversee the Loading Process:
Be present during the loading process to ensure all items are packed correctly and to address any questions from the movers.

4. Keep Valuables and Essentials with You:
Ensure valuables and your “open-first” box are loaded separately to avoid mixing them with other belongings.

5. Take Photos or Videos:
Document the condition of your belongings and your old home before the move to avoid disputes.

6. Final Walk-through:
Conduct a final walk-through of your old home to ensure everything is packed and nothing is left behind.

7. Hand Over Keys:
Return keys and any necessary remotes to the landlord or new homeowner.