Pack this stuff right before moving day so you can still use them beforehand.Ĭonfirm with Movers: As your moving date approaches, touch base with your moving company to confirm all the details of your move. This includes toiletries, a few sets of clothes, kitchen utensils, and any other items you use regularly. Keep Everyday Items Accessible: Keep your essentials out until the last minute. It’ll help you avoid tripping over your stuff, too. This area will serve as a centralized spot for organizing and storing your packed belongings. You should also use this time to properly protect (and properly mark) your fragile items.Ĭreate a Staging Area: Designate a room or a corner as a staging area for packed boxes. This will streamline the unpacking process later. Label Boxes and Protect Fragile Items: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. To avoid a last-minute rush, work your way through each room until everything is packed and ready for moving day – just don’t box up your daily essentials just yet. Pack Gradually: Aim to do a little packing every day, focusing on one room at a time. Try to prioritize items that you don’t use too often, like seasonal decor and any artwork or knick knacks. Start with Least-Used Rooms and Items: Begin packing with the rooms and items you use the least, such as closets and storage areas. Having these materials on hand will make the packing process more efficient. Get Packing Supplies: Gather all the necessary packing supplies such as boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers. If you’ve decided to handle your own packing, here are some essential steps to follow: For the same reason, try to avoid long weekends and holidays. During this time, moving companies tend to be in high demand, and prices may be higher. Plus, you’ll have plenty of wiggle room to pack and plan.Īvoid Peak Moving Season and Major Holidays: Whenever possible, try to avoid moving during the peak season (typically June, July, and August). Scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time increases the likelihood of securing your preferred dates. Aim for a mid-week, mid-month moving date, as these tend to be less busy and may offer more availability. This will help you map out your budget, and it gives you some leverage if movers offer price matching.īook Your Move: Once you’ve selected a moving company, book your move well in advance. Obtain Multiple Quotes: We recommend you get quotes from at least three different moving companies so you can compare prices.Look for reputable and trustworthy moving companies with positive feedback, and steer clear of any movers with poor ratings. Online Reviews: Check online reviews from previous customers.Look for DOT and MC numbers on their website, or look the company up using the FMCSA’s database. Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the moving companies you’re looking at are properly licensed and insured.Some may offer packing assistance, storage options, or specialty item handling. Services Offered: Assess the range of services offered by different movers and match them to your specific needs.Shop for Movers: Now’s the time to research moving companies in your area. This list will serve as a valuable reference during the rest of the moving process, and it can be helpful for insurance purposes as well. Plus, the money you make from reselling can go straight to your move.Ĭreate an Inventory List: Make a detailed inventory list of all your belongings. This not only helps you lighten your load but also benefits others in need.

This will help you decide on the type of moving help you’ll need, whether it’s friends and family or the pros.ĭiscard Unwanted Items: Try to pawn off, sell, donate, or give away unwanted items. Know your limits: If you want to DIY some (or all) of your move, think about what you can handle on your own, and what items will call for a little extra help. A smaller move is an easier move, so now’s the time to downsize and sell off, donate, or just plain junk your unneeded and unwanted stuff. Inventory Your Belongings: Take stock of what you own, and what you can get rid of. Efficient planning and scheduling are key to a smooth move.

Checklist for moving out of state