Your Ultimate Moving Checklist: Stress-Free Moving Tips from the Pros!
Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth, Hassle-Free Move—Brought to You by Upright Moving
Your Ultimate Moving Checklist: Stress-Free Moving Tips from the Pros!
Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth, Hassle-Free Move—Brought to You by Upright Moving
Be prepared, Be stress Free - Upright Moving
Moving can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation and tips, it doesn’t have to be. We’ve put together a comprehensive moving checklist and essential tips to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’ve got you covered with expert advice that will make your move easier and more organized.
Be prepared, Be stress Free - Upright Moving
Moving can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation and tips, it doesn’t have to be. We’ve put together a comprehensive moving checklist and essential tips to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’ve got you covered with expert advice that will make your move easier and more organized.
Pro Tips from Our Moving Experts:
Prepare a Moving Playlist: Create a fun, upbeat playlist to keep your energy up while you’re packing and moving.
Use a Suitcase for Heavy Items: Pack heavy items like books in a rolling suitcase instead of a box to make them easier to move.
Photograph Electronics Setup: Before unplugging electronics, take a photo of how they’re connected. This makes it easier to set them up again in your new home.
Pack a "First-Night" Box: Include everything you’ll need for the first night in your new home, such as bed linens, toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.
Use Hangers for Clothing: Leave clothing on hangers and cover them with trash bags or garment bags for easy transport. This saves time on both ends of the move.
Moving Tips
Packing Tips:
Pack Room by Room: Focus on one room at a time to stay organized.
Use Quality Boxes: Invest in sturdy boxes to protect your belongings during the move.
Wrap Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or even towels to protect fragile items.
Don’t Overpack Boxes: Keep boxes under 50 lbs to make them easier to move and prevent them from breaking.
Color Code Boxes: Assign a color to each room and use colored tape or labels to identify boxes easily.
Use the Right Size Boxes: Pack heavier items like books in small boxes and lighter items like linens in larger boxes. This makes them easier to carry and reduces the risk of boxes breaking.
Wrap Items Individually: Fragile items like glassware and dishes should be wrapped individually with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage.
Fill Empty Spaces: Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or even clothing to fill any empty spaces in boxes. This prevents items from shifting during the move.
Bundle Cables and Electronics: Use zip ties or twist ties to bundle cables together and pack them with the corresponding electronic devices. Take pictures of complex setups to make reassembly easier.
Seal Boxes with Quality Tape: Use strong packing tape to seal boxes securely. Reinforce the bottoms of heavy boxes to prevent them from opening during the move.
Label Boxes on All Sides: Don’t just label the top of the box—label the sides too. This makes it easier to identify boxes when they’re stacked.
Create a Master Inventory List: Keep a list of all your boxes and what’s inside them. This helps you keep track of everything and ensures nothing is left behind.
Moving Day Tips:
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can move easily in.
Stay Hydrated: Moving can be physically demanding, so keep water handy for you and your movers.
Keep Kids/Pets Occupied: Arrange for childcare or a pet sitter, or create a safe space away from the moving chaos.
Keep Important Documents Close: Don’t pack important documents like IDs, contracts, or moving company paperwork—keep them with you.
Have a Moving Day Survival Kit: Pack a small bag with essentials like snacks, water, phone chargers, important documents, and a first-aid kit to keep handy throughout the day.
Prepare Your New Home: If possible, clean your new home before moving in. It’s easier to clean before the furniture arrives. Set up the bathroom and kitchen first to make the first night more comfortable.
Check Weather Conditions: If you’re moving on a rainy or snowy day, prepare accordingly. Have tarps or plastic sheets ready to protect your belongings, and ensure walkways are safe for moving.
Communicate with Your Movers: Keep an open line of communication with your moving team. Let them know about any special instructions or concerns you may have.
Post-Move Tips:
Unpack Strategically: Start with the kitchen and bedrooms to get settled quickly.
Change the Locks: For security, consider changing the locks on your new home.
Set Up Utilities: Make sure all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are working properly.
Explore Your New Neighborhood: Take some time to explore local shops, parks, and meet your new neighbors.
Prioritize Unpacking by Room: Focus on one room at a time, starting with the kitchen and bedrooms. This will help you settle in faster.
Check Utilities and Services: Make sure all utilities (electricity, water, gas) are working properly. Schedule any necessary service appointments, like cable or internet installation.
Introduce Yourself to Neighbors: Take the time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Building a good relationship with them can make your transition smoother.
Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Safety first! Test all detectors and alarms in your new home to ensure they are functioning properly.
Set Up Your Home Security: If you have a security system, set it up or arrange for professional installation as soon as possible.
Special Considerations:
Moving with Fragile Items:
Artwork and Mirrors: Use special picture boxes and wrap artwork and mirrors with plenty of padding. Mark them as fragile and instruct movers to keep them upright.
Plants: Transport plants in your own vehicle if possible. Avoid extreme temperatures and ensure they are stable during the move.
Antiques and Heirlooms: Consider additional insurance for high-value items like antiques. Pack them carefully and inform your movers of their value.
Moving with Children:
Involve Them in the Process: Give your kids small tasks to help with the move, like packing their toys or labeling boxes. This helps them feel involved and reduces anxiety.
Keep Their Routine: Try to keep your children’s routine as normal as possible during the move. Familiar routines help ease the transition.
Create a Safe Space: Set up a safe, child-friendly area in your new home as soon as you arrive. This gives your kids a place to feel comfortable while you unpack.
Moving with Pets:
Plan for Moving Day: Keep your pets in a quiet, safe area during the move. This could be a separate room, a crate, or with a pet sitter.
Update Pet Information: Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date with your new address and contact info.
Introduce Them Slowly: When you arrive at your new home, introduce your pets to one room at a time. This helps them adjust to the new environment gradually.
Special Considerations:
Plan Ahead: Long-distance moves require more planning. Make sure to book your moving services well in advance and confirm details as the date approaches.
Consider Shipping: For some items, it may be easier and more cost-effective to ship them rather than moving them yourself.
Pack an Essentials Box for the Journey: Include everything you’ll need during the trip, such as clothing, toiletries, medications, and important documents.
Seasonal Moving Tips:
Winter Moves: If moving in winter, clear driveways and walkways of snow and ice to ensure safe moving conditions. Consider scheduling earlier in the day to avoid fading daylight.
Summer Moves: For summer moves, start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen if you’ll be outside.
Spring/Fall Moves: Be prepared for unpredictable weather in spring and fall. Have tarps and plastic sheeting on hand to protect items from rain.
Pro Tips from Our Moving Experts:
Prepare a Moving Playlist: Create a fun, upbeat playlist to keep your energy up while you’re packing and moving.
Use a Suitcase for Heavy Items: Pack heavy items like books in a rolling suitcase instead of a box to make them easier to move.
Photograph Electronics Setup: Before unplugging electronics, take a photo of how they’re connected. This makes it easier to set them up again in your new home.
Pack a "First-Night" Box: Include everything you’ll need for the first night in your new home, such as bed linens, toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.
Use Hangers for Clothing: Leave clothing on hangers and cover them with trash bags or garment bags for easy transport. This saves time on both ends of the move.
Moving Tips
Packing Tips:
Pack Room by Room: Focus on one room at a time to stay organized.
Use Quality Boxes: Invest in sturdy boxes to protect your belongings during the move.
Wrap Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or even towels to protect fragile items.
Don’t Overpack Boxes: Keep boxes under 50 lbs to make them easier to move and prevent them from breaking.
Color Code Boxes: Assign a color to each room and use colored tape or labels to identify boxes easily.
Use the Right Size Boxes: Pack heavier items like books in small boxes and lighter items like linens in larger boxes. This makes them easier to carry and reduces the risk of boxes breaking.
Wrap Items Individually: Fragile items like glassware and dishes should be wrapped individually with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage.
Fill Empty Spaces: Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or even clothing to fill any empty spaces in boxes. This prevents items from shifting during the move.
Bundle Cables and Electronics: Use zip ties or twist ties to bundle cables together and pack them with the corresponding electronic devices. Take pictures of complex setups to make reassembly easier.
Seal Boxes with Quality Tape: Use strong packing tape to seal boxes securely. Reinforce the bottoms of heavy boxes to prevent them from opening during the move.
Label Boxes on All Sides: Don’t just label the top of the box—label the sides too. This makes it easier to identify boxes when they’re stacked.
Create a Master Inventory List: Keep a list of all your boxes and what’s inside them. This helps you keep track of everything and ensures nothing is left behind.
Moving Day Tips:
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can move easily in.
Stay Hydrated: Moving can be physically demanding, so keep water handy for you and your movers.
Keep Kids/Pets Occupied: Arrange for childcare or a pet sitter, or create a safe space away from the moving chaos.
Keep Important Documents Close: Don’t pack important documents like IDs, contracts, or moving company paperwork—keep them with you.
Have a Moving Day Survival Kit: Pack a small bag with essentials like snacks, water, phone chargers, important documents, and a first-aid kit to keep handy throughout the day.
Prepare Your New Home: If possible, clean your new home before moving in. It’s easier to clean before the furniture arrives. Set up the bathroom and kitchen first to make the first night more comfortable.
Check Weather Conditions: If you’re moving on a rainy or snowy day, prepare accordingly. Have tarps or plastic sheets ready to protect your belongings, and ensure walkways are safe for moving.
Communicate with Your Movers: Keep an open line of communication with your moving team. Let them know about any special instructions or concerns you may have.
Post-Move Tips:
Unpack Strategically: Start with the kitchen and bedrooms to get settled quickly.
Change the Locks: For security, consider changing the locks on your new home.
Set Up Utilities: Make sure all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are working properly.
Explore Your New Neighborhood: Take some time to explore local shops, parks, and meet your new neighbors.
Prioritize Unpacking by Room: Focus on one room at a time, starting with the kitchen and bedrooms. This will help you settle in faster.
Check Utilities and Services: Make sure all utilities (electricity, water, gas) are working properly. Schedule any necessary service appointments, like cable or internet installation.
Introduce Yourself to Neighbors: Take the time to introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Building a good relationship with them can make your transition smoother.
Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Safety first! Test all detectors and alarms in your new home to ensure they are functioning properly.
Set Up Your Home Security: If you have a security system, set it up or arrange for professional installation as soon as possible.
Special Considerations:
Moving with Fragile Items:
Artwork and Mirrors: Use special picture boxes and wrap artwork and mirrors with plenty of padding. Mark them as fragile and instruct movers to keep them upright.
Plants: Transport plants in your own vehicle if possible. Avoid extreme temperatures and ensure they are stable during the move.
Antiques and Heirlooms: Consider additional insurance for high-value items like antiques. Pack them carefully and inform your movers of their value.
Moving with Children:
Involve Them in the Process: Give your kids small tasks to help with the move, like packing their toys or labeling boxes. This helps them feel involved and reduces anxiety.
Keep Their Routine: Try to keep your children’s routine as normal as possible during the move. Familiar routines help ease the transition.
Create a Safe Space: Set up a safe, child-friendly area in your new home as soon as you arrive. This gives your kids a place to feel comfortable while you unpack.
Moving with Pets:
Plan for Moving Day: Keep your pets in a quiet, safe area during the move. This could be a separate room, a crate, or with a pet sitter.
Update Pet Information: Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date with your new address and contact info.
Introduce Them Slowly: When you arrive at your new home, introduce your pets to one room at a time. This helps them adjust to the new environment gradually.
Special Considerations:
Plan Ahead: Long-distance moves require more planning. Make sure to book your moving services well in advance and confirm details as the date approaches.
Consider Shipping: For some items, it may be easier and more cost-effective to ship them rather than moving them yourself.
Pack an Essentials Box for the Journey: Include everything you’ll need during the trip, such as clothing, toiletries, medications, and important documents.
Seasonal Moving Tips:
Winter Moves: If moving in winter, clear driveways and walkways of snow and ice to ensure safe moving conditions. Consider scheduling earlier in the day to avoid fading daylight.
Summer Moves: For summer moves, start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen if you’ll be outside.
Spring/Fall Moves: Be prepared for unpredictable weather in spring and fall. Have tarps and plastic sheeting on hand to protect items from rain.
Move with A Plan
4-5 Weeks Before Your Move:
Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you don’t use daily, such as seasonal clothing and decor.
Gather Packing Supplies: Get boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Consider buying or renting specialty boxes for fragile items.
Plan for Your Pets: Make arrangements for pet care during the move or transportation.
Begin Using Up Perishables: Eat or donate food that can’t be moved, such as frozen foods or pantry items.
Sell Gently-Used Items: Not sure if your belongings will serve a purpose in your new home? It may be time to sell them. From old clothing to outdated furniture, many consignment stores will gladly accept gently-used, second-hand items.
2-3 Weeks Before Your Move:
Confirm Moving Details: Confirm your moving date and details with the moving company.
Pack an Essentials Box: Pack a box with essentials you’ll need for the first day/night in your new home (clothes, toiletries, snacks, etc.).
Label Your Boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
Plan for Valuables: Decide how to transport valuables like jewelry, important documents, and electronics.
Forward Your Mail: Fortunately, forwarding your snail mail is an easy task that can be done ahead of time. All you have to do is go to USPS.com and choose the date you wish to begin forwarding your mail.
Arrange for Child Care on Moving Day: Moving babies or small children? Give yourself a break and arrange for a babysitter to watch your kids on moving day.
Take a Look at the New Home's Blueprint: Before moving, take a look at your new home's blueprint to decide what will go where on moving day. By planning all furniture arrangements ahead of time, movers will know where to place your belongings in the house.
Update Bank Account & Credit Card Billing Addresses: It's time to update your bank account and credit card billing addresses. Fortunately, this can be done in less than a minute online or by phone.
Request Time Off From Work: Need to take off work to move? If you're moving on a weekday, go ahead and request a personal day from your employer.
1 Week Before Your Move:
Finish Packing: Ensure all non-essential items are packed. Keep important documents and valuables in a safe place.
Defrost Your Fridge/Freezer: If you're moving a fridge/freezer, defrost it at least 24 hours before the move.
Confirm Utility Shutoff/Turn On: Schedule shutoff for utilities at your old home and turn on at your new one.
Transfer Your Internet: If you're like most people, its hard to live without internet. Most companies need to be scheduled to come out and activate your internet service. Plan for this.
Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind and your old home is ready for the new owners or tenants.
Pack Suitcases & Essentials: The day you move, be sure to pack all necessary suitcases that you plan on taking with you. These should contain your first week essentials including pajamas, toiletries, clothing, shoes, medications, pet and baby necessities, as well as any important documents or valuables. You may also want to consider packing a special “Moving Day” box with trash bags, light bulbs, scissors, tools, flashlights, paper towels, toilet paper and bed linens.
Meet the Movers: Be there to greet the movers and walk them through the plan.
Take Inventory: Take inventory of all belongings. This way you can keep track of what you have and what the movers are transporting.
Final Check: Do a final sweep of your old home, checking all rooms, closets, and cabinets.
Tip the Movers: If you’re satisfied with their service, consider tipping your movers.
Settle Into Your New Home: Unpack your essentials box and start getting settled.
Move with A Plan
4-5 Weeks Before Your Move:
Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you don’t use daily, such as seasonal clothing and decor.
Gather Packing Supplies: Get boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Consider buying or renting specialty boxes for fragile items.
Plan for Your Pets: Make arrangements for pet care during the move or transportation.
Begin Using Up Perishables: Eat or donate food that can’t be moved, such as frozen foods or pantry items.
Sell Gently-Used Items: Not sure if your belongings will serve a purpose in your new home? It may be time to sell them. From old clothing to outdated furniture, many consignment stores will gladly accept gently-used, second-hand items.
2-3 Weeks Before Your Move:
Confirm Moving Details: Confirm your moving date and details with the moving company.
Pack an Essentials Box: Pack a box with essentials you’ll need for the first day/night in your new home (clothes, toiletries, snacks, etc.).
Label Your Boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
Plan for Valuables: Decide how to transport valuables like jewelry, important documents, and electronics.
Forward Your Mail: Fortunately, forwarding your snail mail is an easy task that can be done ahead of time. All you have to do is go to USPS.com and choose the date you wish to begin forwarding your mail.
Arrange for Child Care on Moving Day: Moving babies or small children? Give yourself a break and arrange for a babysitter to watch your kids on moving day.
Take a Look at the New Home's Blueprint: Before moving, take a look at your new home's blueprint to decide what will go where on moving day. By planning all furniture arrangements ahead of time, movers will know where to place your belongings in the house.
Update Bank Account & Credit Card Billing Addresses: It's time to update your bank account and credit card billing addresses. Fortunately, this can be done in less than a minute online or by phone.
Request Time Off From Work: Need to take off work to move? If you're moving on a weekday, go ahead and request a personal day from your employer.
1 Week Before Your Move:
Finish Packing: Ensure all non-essential items are packed. Keep important documents and valuables in a safe place.
Defrost Your Fridge/Freezer: If you're moving a fridge/freezer, defrost it at least 24 hours before the move.
Confirm Utility Shutoff/Turn On: Schedule shutoff for utilities at your old home and turn on at your new one.
Transfer Your Internet: If you're like most people, its hard to live without internet. Most companies need to be scheduled to come out and activate your internet service. Plan for this.
Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind and your old home is ready for the new owners or tenants.
Pack Suitcases & Essentials: The day you move, be sure to pack all necessary suitcases that you plan on taking with you. These should contain your first week essentials including pajamas, toiletries, clothing, shoes, medications, pet and baby necessities, as well as any important documents or valuables. You may also want to consider packing a special “Moving Day” box with trash bags, light bulbs, scissors, tools, flashlights, paper towels, toilet paper and bed linens.
Meet the Movers: Be there to greet the movers and walk them through the plan.
Take Inventory: Take inventory of all belongings. This way you can keep track of what you have and what the movers are transporting.
Final Check: Do a final sweep of your old home, checking all rooms, closets, and cabinets.
Tip the Movers: If you’re satisfied with their service, consider tipping your movers.
Settle Into Your New Home: Unpack your essentials box and start getting settled.
Refer-a-Friend Program:
Know someone else who’s moving? Refer a friend and both of you receive a discount on our services!
Make Note of All Tax Deductible Moving Expenses
Begin keeping a running tally of all tax deductible moving expenses. These may include household donations to charities, as well as any moving expenses for a job-related relocation.
Refer-a-Friend Program:
Know someone else who’s moving? Refer a friend and both of you receive a discount on our services!
Make Note of All Tax Deductible Moving Expenses
Begin keeping a running tally of all tax deductible moving expenses. These may include household donations to charities, as well as any moving expenses for a job-related relocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start preparing for my move?
It’s best to start preparing 6-8 weeks before your move. This allows you enough time to declutter, organize, and pack without feeling rushed.
Can we help with packing and unpacking?
Absolutely! We offer professional packing and unpacking services to make your move even easier. Just let us know what you need, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Why should I hire professional movers instead of doing it myself?
Hiring professional movers saves you time, reduces stress, and ensures that your belongings are handled safely and efficiently. Our experienced team can handle everything from heavy lifting to transportation, giving you peace of mind.
How do I know how many movers I’ll need for my move?
The number of movers you’ll need depends on the size of your home and the complexity of your move. We can help you assess your needs during a consultation to ensure you have the right team size for a smooth move.
What should I look for when choosing a moving company?
Look for a moving company with a strong reputation, positive customer reviews, and clear pricing. It’s also important to choose a company that is licensed, insured, and offers the specific services you need, such as packing, storage, or specialty item handling.
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