- Start Planning Early: Begin preparations at least two months before the move.
- Declutter: Sort and discard items you no longer need.
- Donate Unused Items: Give gently used items to charity or local shelters.
- Sell Items: Host a garage sale or list items online for extra cash.
- Gather Packing Supplies: Collect boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
- Create a Moving Binder: Keep all your moving documents organized in one place.
- Use an Inventory App: Use a mobile app to keep track of your belongings.
- Label Boxes by Room: This makes unpacking much easier.
- Color-Code Boxes: Assign a color to each room and label boxes accordingly.
- Take Photos of Electronics: Helps with reinstallation of cables and cords.
- Pack an Essentials Bag: Include toiletries, clothes, and medications for the first few days.
- Prepare a First Night Box: Pack everything you’ll need for your first night.
- Keep Important Documents Handy: Store documents like passports and birth certificates in a safe place.
- Hire Reputable Movers: Choose experienced and well-reviewed movers.
- Check Mover Credentials: Ensure they are licensed and insured.
- Request Moving Estimates: Get quotes from several companies.
- Read Contracts Carefully: Understand all terms before signing.
- Schedule Utilities for Your New Home: Set up water, gas, electricity, and internet.
- Notify Important Parties: Update your address with banks, schools, and subscriptions.
- Clean the New Home Before Moving: Deep clean or hire professional cleaners.
- Arrange Child and Pet Care for Moving Day: Keeps them safe and simplifies your move.
- Reserve Elevators if Needed: Important for apartment moves.
- Protect Floors and Carpets During the Move: Use floor runners or cardboard.
- Use Wardrobe Boxes for Clothes: Allows clothes to be moved on hangers.
- Defrost Your Refrigerator: Do this at least 24 hours before moving.
- Pack Dishes Vertically: Reduces the risk of breakage.
- Wrap Breakables in Clothing: Saves on bubble wrap and protects items.
- Use Suitcases for Heavy Items: Wheels make them easier to move.
- Pack Books in Small Boxes: Keeps them manageable to lift.
- Take Pictures of Furniture Setup: Helps with reassembly in your new home.
- Keep Hardware in Labeled Bags: Attach to disassembled furniture for easy access.
- Use Plastic Wrap for Drawers: Keeps contents in place and avoids unpacking.
- Create a Detailed To-Do List: Helps track completion of tasks.
- Schedule a Donation Pickup: For larger items you’re giving away.
- Update Your Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Reflect your new address.
- Use Old Towels for Padding: Good for padding boxes with fragile items.
- Secure Pets in a Quiet Room on Moving Day: Reduces stress for animals.
- Measure Furniture and Doorways: Ensures everything will fit through doors.
- Change Locks in Your New Home: Enhances security.
- Prepare an Overnight Kit for Each Family Member: Ensures personal items are accessible.
- Confirm Moving Day Details with Movers: Prevents last-minute confusion.
- Leave a Tip and Review for Your Movers: Shows appreciation for good service.
- Set Aside Cleaning Supplies for Final Cleanup: Important for cleaning the old home.
- Notify Neighbors About the Move: Keeps them informed of traffic and noise.
- Pack a Cooler with Snacks and Drinks: Keeps everyone hydrated and energized.
- Plan for Storage if Necessary: Sometimes you need extra space.
- Double-Check Closets, Drawers, and Cabinets: Ensure nothing is left behind.
- Have Cash on Hand for Unexpected Expenses: Always useful on moving day.
- Record Utility Meter Readings: For both old and new homes.
- Use Bubble Wrap for Mirrors and Glass: Prevents cracks and breaks.
- Wrap Furniture in Blankets: Protects against scratches and dents.
- Disassemble Furniture Early: Saves time on moving day.
- Pack a Box of Moving Day Tools: Include screwdrivers, hammers, and tape.
- Designate a ‘No Pack’ Zone: For items that will travel with you.