Essential Checklist for a Smooth Moving Experience

You're embarking on a relocation adventure! This exciting journey into a new chapter also involves quite a bit of work. However, there's no need to stress—following a strategic checklist can help you avoid moving-related headaches.

A key point to consider: begin your preparations as early as possible. Effective initial planning can save you from a lot of hassle down the road. While this guide suggests starting two months before your move, keep in mind that things can develop quickly, especially if your home closing is imminent. So, start tackling these steps whenever you’re ready. Let’s dive in!

Spring clean, no matter what the season

Embrace the minimalist mindset as you prepare for your move. View this period as a chance to declutter and purge items you no longer need. Discard anything that doesn’t bring joy and donate gently-used goods. Even tackle that notorious junk drawer!

Find your mover

Start researching potential moving companies now. If you're opting for a DIY move, look for the best deals on truck rentals. Always get estimates in writing. Should you choose a moving company, ensure it has a valid U.S. Department of Transportation number.

Organize records

Gather personal documents related to medical, insurance, and financial matters. You'll need these records handy when updating information in your new location. Make arrangements with your children’s school to transfer academic records as well.

Make a moving binder

A moving binder will become your organizational ally. Use it to collect estimates, maintain an inventory, track expenses, and more. Refer to it consistently throughout the moving process.

Order moving supplies

Stock up on essentials like boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap. Assess if you'll need special materials for delicate or large items. If you're using a moving company and they require packing for insurance reasons, they’ll bring these supplies along.

Measure once, save twice the frustration

Obtain measurements for doorways in your new home and your furniture. This ensures you’re not hit with surprises as you attempt to move bulky items into your new space.

Book your mover

Confirm all details with your chosen mover and firmly schedule the necessary arrangements. Get everything in writing to avoid surprises later. If you’re renting a truck, now is the time to reserve it.

Review your insurance

Evaluate if additional insurance is needed for your belongings during transit. Clarify these options with your moving company.

Make some notifications

Now’s the time to update your address with the post office. Inform banks, financial institutions, credit card companies, and subscription services of your move. It's also beneficial to forward your medical records at this stage.

Pack

Tackle packing gradually, focusing on one room at a time. Consider insurance for any special items and label each box with its destination in the new home. Secure valuables in a lockbox that you’ll keep with you during the move.

Talk to your association

Check with your current homeowner association to resolve any pending matters. Contact your new association to learn about any specific moving rules they may have, like parking restrictions or trash disposal guidelines.

Get major services handled

Service your vehicle, especially if you're relocating to a different climate. Ensure major appliances don’t require repair before loading them up.

Clean out your safe deposit box

Retrieve valuable items from your safe deposit box and place them in a home lockbox that will travel with you.

Pack a suitcase for moving day

Prepare a suitcase with essentials for a few days, easing the transition while unpacking. Don’t forget to include a digital camera to document any potential property damage.

Mind your health

Refill prescriptions to maintain continuity in your healthcare regimen without interruptions.

Get payments in order

Finalize payment arrangements with your moving company to prevent unexpected costs.

Get your move on

When the moving truck arrives, verify that the USDOT number on the truck matches your estimate to prevent fraud. Keep your binder close as the truck is loaded to ensure all belongings are accounted for. Before the movers leave, ask for a bill of lading or inventory list to confirm what’s been loaded.