When hiring a moving company, here’s a checklist to ensure a smooth and organized move:
8 Weeks Before Moving:
- Research moving companies – Get recommendations, read reviews, and request quotes from multiple moving companies.
- Choose your moving company – After comparing services and prices, book your moving company and confirm your moving date.
- Ask about insurance – Inquire about the insurance coverage provided by the company and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
- Declutter – Start sorting through your belongings to get rid of items you don’t need.
6 Weeks Before Moving:
- Create a moving inventory – List your items so you can keep track of what is being moved.
- Request packing services – If you want professional packing, confirm whether the moving company offers this service and get a quote.
- Notify your landlord (if applicable) – If you’re renting, provide notice according to your lease terms.
- Confirm your moving details – Double-check your moving date, time, and any special instructions with the company.
4 Weeks Before Moving:
- Start packing non-essentials – Begin packing items you won’t need immediately, like seasonal clothes and decorations.
- Get packing supplies – If you plan to pack yourself, order boxes, tape, and packing materials (the moving company may provide some).
- Organize and label items – Clearly label boxes by room and contents, and mark fragile or high-priority items.
- Confirm insurance coverage – Double-check if your moving company’s insurance covers your items adequately.
- Arrange for parking – If your moving company needs space for a truck, check with your building or city about parking permits.
2 Weeks Before Moving:
- Finalize logistics with the moving company – Confirm the exact time and location, and make sure the company is aware of any special requirements (e.g., large furniture, narrow hallways).
- Pack essentials – Pack a bag with essentials (clothes, toiletries, medications) for the first few days at your new home.
- Disassemble furniture – Take apart any large furniture if you’re able (e.g., bed frames, desks), or let the movers know in advance if you need help.
- Prepare your pets and plants – If applicable, arrange for pet or plant care during the move.
1 Week Before Moving:
- Finish packing – Pack up the rest of your belongings, leaving only the essentials.
- Confirm with the moving company – Double-check the moving day schedule, including any specific instructions.
- Clean your current home – Start deep cleaning your old home so it’s ready for the next occupants.
- Set up utilities at your new home – Confirm that electricity, gas, water, and internet will be active when you arrive.
- Label high-value items – Ensure valuable or fragile items are marked and handled properly by the movers.
Moving Day:
- Be present for the movers – Greet the moving team, and go over any special instructions for packing or handling your belongings.
- Do a final walkthrough – Check that all doors and windows are locked and that nothing is left behind.
- Keep important documents with you – Don’t pack items like ID, financial records, and moving contracts. Keep them with you at all times.
- Tip the movers – If you’re satisfied with the service, have cash or a tip ready for the moving crew.
After the Move:
- Inspect your items – As you unpack, check for any damage or missing items. Notify the moving company immediately if there’s an issue.
- Unpack essentials first – Start by unpacking the most important items, like toiletries and bedding.
- Settle into your new home – Set up your furniture and get organized in your new space.
- Leave a review – If the moving company did a great job, consider leaving a positive review to help others.
Hiring a moving company takes a lot of the stress out of the process, but keeping this checklist in mind ensures a smoother experience overall.