Your Essential Moving Checklist for a Smooth Relocation

While there’s no such thing as a completely hassle-free move, this guide will help you minimize stress and ensure you don't forget any important steps. Let’s make your move a smoother, more enjoyable process!

The Preparation:

• Organize digital and physical files to keep everything related to your move in one place.
• Set a moving budget.
• Research moving and shipping service providers.
• Request time off for the final stages of your move.
• Notify your landlord if you’re renting.
• Make arrangements for temporary housing if needed.
• Start your search for a roommate if required.
• Rent a storage unit near your new home, if necessary.
• Sort through your belongings by room—decide what to keep, sell, or donate.
• Research and purchase moving insurance.
• Research, select, and book your moving company, such as Pacific Crating and Shipping (PCS).
• Cancel utilities (phone, internet, cable, water, garbage, electric, gas, lawn, pest control, etc.) effective on the day of your move.
• Set up utilities for your new home.
• Ensure your vehicles are ready for transport (oil change, new tires, etc.) or arrange for driving to your new home.

The Process:

• Gather or purchase boxes and packing materials (tape, scissors, markers, paper, bubble wrap).
• Begin packing room by room, starting with items you use least often. Group like items and color-code each box by room.
• Or, relax and let professional movers pack for you!
• Arrange travel plans to coincide with the arrival of your belongings at your new home.
• Track moving expenses, which may be tax-deductible.
• Retrieve items from your safe deposit box.
• Clean out your pantry and refrigerator, and thoroughly clean once they’re empty.
• Pack essential items separately, such as important documents, medications, electronics, and clothing for several days.
• Once packing is nearly done, do a final cleaning: vacuum, wipe down walls, clean floors, and sanitize bathrooms.

Moving Day:

• Prepare cash for tipping movers and emergencies.
• Load the moving truck, if you’re handling that yourself.
• If you’ve hired movers, take a last look around your home, remembering the good times as you wait for them to arrive.
• Leave all keys and garage door openers on the counter for the new occupants.
• Travel to your new home.
• Share your new address with friends and family.
• Begin unpacking and making your new house feel like home.
• Celebrate the beginning of your next chapter!

We wish you all the best with your upcoming move and invite you to consider Pacific Crating and Shipping for your moving and shipping needs. With over 30 years of experience, PCS has been trusted for local, interstate, and international moves, offering superior custom crates and reliable shipping services.