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Moving can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be — a checklist can make the process easier.
George Doyle/ThinkstockIt's safe to say that moving ranks high on most people's list of dreaded tasks. Moving, particularly to a new city or state, is always challenging. However, we have a little tip for you: Procrastination is the real enemy. Trust us—there’s nothing worse than scrambling to stuff your belongings into trash bags while the movers wait (and time is running out). If you don't stay organized, you'll inevitably face a mountain of miscellaneous items that you'll have to deal with on moving day, and that's never enjoyable.
Packing up an entire home—no matter its size—can feel like an insurmountable task, especially if it's your first time. But don't worry, first-time movers—we’ve compiled a helpful timeline and loads of useful tips that will alleviate some of your stress.
Moving Timeline: 2 Months Before the Big Day
Most seasoned movers (or rather, those who have been through the process countless times) recommend starting your move roughly two months ahead of your moving date. Here's what you should do during the 8-6 week lead-up to your move:
- Go through your belongings and decide what to get rid of. Once that's done, you can begin packing the things you won’t need in the coming weeks.
- Gather packing materials. At a minimum, you’ll need boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
- Create a moving budget. Will you handle the move on your own or hire professionals? If you hire movers, will they also do the packing?
- Get quotes from moving companies or rental truck services and secure a hire (see sidebar for more details).
- If you live with roommates, figure out who is bringing what and who’s responsible for what costs.
- Convince your friends and family (perhaps with some flattery) to help on moving day.
Continue reading to discover what tasks you should focus on one month before your move.
There are plenty of untrustworthy "moving companies" out there, so it’s crucial to do thorough research. Getting recommendations from others is the best way to find reliable movers, but always ensure you get at least three or four in-person estimates. Ask about any additional fees, hidden charges, licensing, and insurance, and make sure you get everything in writing.
Moving Timeline: One Month Before the Move
With just a month left until moving day, the pressure might be building up, but don't stress. While packing is still a little while off, now’s the time to take care of these tasks:
- Complete a change of address form with the post office, and make sure to notify your credit card companies, banks, doctors, schools, and utility providers about your move.
- Arrange for the utilities at your old place to be disconnected and ensure they are set up at your new home.
- Consider hosting a garage sale for items you decided to get rid of last month. If you can, sell those things—you might even make back some of the money spent on packing supplies.
Next, let’s take a look at what should be done when you’re just two weeks away from moving day.
Even if the movers are handling your packing, it’s wise to personally pack any fragile or valuable items. No matter how careful the movers are, accidents can happen. You'll feel much better knowing your precious items are safely in your hands.
Moving Timeline: Two Weeks to Go
Looks like this guy might have missed confirming the details with the movers.
Pixland/ThinkstockMoving day is almost here, but if you've been sticking to the timeline, you're probably feeling pretty relaxed, right? Even though you're almost there, there are still a few things left to do. Here’s what to take care of in the final two weeks:
- Double-check that your utilities are set up at the new place and that things like electricity, water, and heat will be working when you arrive.
- Try to finish packing a week ahead of time, leaving just a suitcase with essentials for the next few days.
- Set aside a few "open first" boxes so you can easily find things like glasses and silverware.
- Make sure to refill any prescriptions you might need in the coming weeks.
- Plan your meals to finish off whatever food you have in your fridge and cabinets.
- A couple of days before, confirm your arrangements with movers and/or helpers.
- Ensure your new place is clean and ready, so you won't face any surprises when you open the door for the first time.
- Don’t forget to share your new address with everyone!
Keep reading for some helpful packing tips.
Essential Packing Checklist
Make sure to label all your boxes clearly, so that your movers/helpers know exactly where each one belongs.
Brand X Pictures/ThinkstockAlright, so you know it’s time to start packing and keep going until it’s all done. Sounds easy, but where do you begin? And how do you stay organized while packing everything? A well-done packing job won’t just make your packing process smoother, it will also make unloading easier in your new home. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Start gathering your boxes and supplies early – chances are, you’ll end up needing more at some point.
- Pack up one room at a time, and try to keep items from different rooms out of the same box.
- Label each box by its designated room – using color-coded labels can be a great way to keep everything even more organized.
- Pack your clothing and linens into suitcases.
- Pack heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger ones, always placing the heavy items at the bottom.
- Pack dishes standing up on their sides, not flat. Be sure to wrap each dish individually, whether with newspaper or specialized foam wraps.
- Use towels or crumpled paper to fill in any empty spaces in your boxes – never leave any box half full.
Moving out of state can require a few additional considerations – read on for some tips on how to handle the process if you’re crossing state lines.
Out-of-State Moving Checklist
Aside from the obvious difference of distance, moving to a new state isn’t too different from a move across town. You won’t be able to run back to your old home to grab that forgotten toaster, but you won’t need to learn a new language or adapt to a completely different culture (though people moving from New England to Southern California might tell you otherwise!).
The biggest challenge when moving out of state is getting your bearings – figuring out where all the essential places are. You’ll need to find new schools, grocery stores, and doctors. Before your move, it’s a good idea to make a list of these important locations and find out where they are. With all the online mapping tools available, this is easier than ever before.
When relocating out of state, a moving company is something you’ll need to approach differently. With in-state moves, it can be tricky to secure a binding agreement with movers. However, out-of-state moves usually involve binding agreements, which means the price you’re quoted won’t change. This is great news since long-distance moves can encounter more challenges. Plus, your fee will be based on the weight and distance of your move rather than how long it takes.
Moving Tips
Before your move, have your carpets professionally cleaned – they’ll be rolled up and fresh, ready for the journey ahead.As with all those last-minute stray items you find after you think you’re finished packing, there’s always more moving advice to share. Every little tip counts when you’re dealing with a major life change, right? So here’s one final list of helpful suggestions that you might not have considered on your own:
- Create a convenient binder to keep all important moving documents, including receipts, agreements, and contracts.
- Have your rugs professionally cleaned before the move – they'll be neatly wrapped and ready to go.
- Take photos or videos of valuable items before packing them.
- Avoid labeling every box as “fragile.”
- Don’t mark anything valuable on the outside of a box.
- Keep extra boxes handy on moving day for those last-minute items.
- Leave out a small toolbox and a first aid kit for moving day emergencies.
- Tip your movers 10 to 15 percent, or more if the move is particularly challenging.
- Have bottled water available and provide food and drinks for your movers or helpers.
Next, you'll find plenty of additional moving and packing tips. Best of luck with your move!
