Missing just one critical step on your moving checklist can lead to last-minute chaos, unnecessary expenses, or even lost items. As a moving industry professional, I’ve seen how a well-prepared plan transforms moving day from stressful to smooth. This guide covers the 10 essential things you must not forget before moving day—ensuring nothing slips through the cracks, whether you’re relocating across town or to another state.
Table of Contents
- 1. Notify Important Parties and Update Address
- 2. Schedule and Confirm Your Movers
- 3. Sort, Declutter, and Donate
- 4. Gather Packing Supplies Early
- 5. Pack an Essentials Box
- 6. Label and Inventory Your Boxes
- 7. Handle Utilities and Service Transfers
- 8. Protect Valuables and Important Documents
- 9. Plan for Pets and Children
- 10. Clean and Prepare Your Old Home
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary and Next Steps
1. Notify Important Parties and Update Address
One of the most overlooked steps is notifying key contacts of your move. Start with the USPS to forward your mail, but don’t stop there—contact banks, insurance providers, credit card companies, and subscription services. If you’re moving long-distance, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration as required by your new state.
- Tip: Create a checklist of every organization and person who needs your new address—utilities, doctors, schools, and even loyalty programs.
- Real-World Insight: Movers often find clients still receiving bills or packages at their old address months after moving. Avoid this by updating your address at least two weeks in advance.
2. Schedule and Confirm Your Movers
Whether you’re hiring a full-service moving company, renting a truck, or using portable containers, book your services early—ideally 4–8 weeks before your move. Confirm all details a week before moving day, including arrival times, payment terms, and insurance coverage.
- Professional Insight: In peak moving season (late spring through summer), reputable movers book up fast. Don’t assume availability until you have a written confirmation.
- Red Flag: If a mover won’t provide a written estimate or proof of insurance, consider it a warning sign.
3. Sort, Declutter, and Donate
Moving is the perfect time to lighten your load. Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Not only does this reduce moving costs, but it also saves time on packing and unpacking.
- Example: One family I worked with cut their moving costs by $400 simply by donating old furniture and books they no longer needed.
- Tip: Schedule donation pickups or drop-offs at least a week before moving day to avoid last-minute clutter.
4. Gather Packing Supplies Early
Running out of boxes or tape on packing day is a common headache. Stock up on sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Specialty boxes (for dishes, TVs, or wardrobes) can prevent costly damage.
- Insider Tip: Grocery and liquor stores often have free boxes, but make sure they’re clean and sturdy.
- For long-distance moves, invest in high-quality supplies to protect your belongings over longer journeys.
5. Pack an Essentials Box
Set aside a box or suitcase with everything you’ll need for the first 24–48 hours in your new home. This should include toiletries, medications, chargers, basic tools, snacks, a change of clothes, and important documents.
- Scenario: After a cross-country move, I’ve seen families spend hours searching for their coffee maker or kids’ pajamas—an essentials box solves this problem.
6. Label and Inventory Your Boxes
Clearly label each box with its contents and destination room. Number your boxes and keep a simple inventory list—this is especially helpful for long-distance or interstate moves, where boxes may be handled by multiple crews.
- Pro Tip: Use color-coded labels or tape for each room to make unloading faster and easier.
- Inventory lists are invaluable if you need to file a claim for lost or damaged items.
7. Handle Utilities and Service Transfers
Contact your utility providers (electric, gas, water, internet, trash) to schedule service shut-off at your old address and activation at your new home. Aim for a one-day overlap if possible to avoid moving into a dark or cold house.
- Tip: Don’t forget to transfer or cancel home security systems, lawn care, or pest control services.
- Common Mistake: Overlooking internet setup can leave you disconnected for days—schedule installation ahead of time, especially in busy areas.
8. Protect Valuables and Important Documents
Keep jewelry, passports, birth certificates, and other irreplaceable items with you during the move. For high-value items, check your moving company’s insurance policy and consider extra coverage if needed.
- Expert Insight: Movers are not liable for items you pack yourself unless you opt for full-value protection. Photograph valuables before packing as proof of condition.
9. Plan for Pets and Children
Moving day is hectic—having a plan for kids and pets keeps everyone safe and reduces stress. Arrange for a friend, family member, or sitter to watch them, or set up a safe, quiet space away from the action.
- For long-distance moves, prepare travel bags with food, water, favorite toys, and comfort items.
- Tip: Update pet microchip information and vet records with your new address.
10. Clean and Prepare Your Old Home
Leave your old place in good condition—especially if you’re renting and want your security deposit back. Clean each room, patch holes, and document the condition with photos. If selling, a clean home makes a better impression on buyers or new owners.
- Checklist: Empty all cabinets, defrost the freezer, and remove trash before locking up for the last time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start planning my move?
Begin planning at least 6–8 weeks before your moving day, especially for long-distance or interstate moves. This gives you time to book movers, gather supplies, and handle address changes.
What’s the best way to estimate moving costs?
Request written quotes from multiple moving companies and compare services. Factor in packing supplies, insurance, and any special handling for large or fragile items.
Should I hire professional movers or do it myself?
Professional movers save time and reduce physical strain, but cost more. DIY moves can be cheaper but require more effort and planning. Consider your budget, timeline, and the complexity of your move.
What items should not go on the moving truck?
Keep valuables, important documents, medications, and perishable food with you. Movers often prohibit hazardous materials like paint, propane, and cleaning chemicals.
How can I make unpacking easier?
Label boxes clearly, use an inventory list, and unpack essentials first. Setting up beds and basic kitchen items early makes your new home livable right away.
Summary and Next Steps
Following this ultimate moving checklist will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smoother, less stressful transition to your new home. By staying organized and tackling these 10 must-do tasks, you’ll save time, money, and hassle on moving day. When you’re ready to compare free, no-obligation moving quotes, Quick Moving Quotes makes it easy to find the right service for your needs and budget.