Moving is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel stressful. Our checklist below will help you prepare for the big day, providing you with all the tools you need for a smooth and easy move.
One Month to Go
You still have a month…but you ONLY have a month. Here’s what you need to do now to get ready:
- Keep an updated list. This one seems obvious, but having an up-to-date list of everything you bring on your move will make the process much easier. It’s always good to have an accurate inventory of your belongings.
- Check every room and make decisions. Are there things you’ve meant to give or throw away and just haven’t gotten around to? If so, a move is the best time to go through with it and cuts down on the work and chances of missing something more important.
- You’ve made your list; now check it twice. Doing a quick re-cap of your inventory is a great way to catch something you may be thinking about donating or selling and may miss. Again, the less rarely used items you bring, the better.
- Make sure your records are in order. No, we’re not talking about vinyl! It’s always a great idea to keep all financial, legal, and medical records in one location that’s easy to access, because you never know when you’ll need them!
- Stock up on moving supplies. If you haven’t already, start collecting boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and anything else you may need for the move.
- Update your address. Now is the time to reach out to your bank, employer, billers, and anyone important who may need to mail you documents.
Two Weeks to Go
It’s time to get to work! Here are a few things to help prepare you for the final two weeks before your move:
- Start packing! You won’t want to leave it much longer, so now is the time to start boxing up the items you won’t use regularly. Things like books, decorations, shoes you may not need, and even cooking appliances that aren’t a necessity (like waffle irons or cake pans) can be safely packed now. Remember: label all the boxes clearly for easy access after the move.
- Book the elevator! If you live in a building with an elevator, make sure you book it. Buildings in New York require this and in other places, its important to ensure there are no delays with the move that cause unexpected costs.
- Book time off. Don’t spring your move on your employer last minute. If you plan to take time off work for your upcoming move, now is the time to notify your boss.
- Do an inventory on repairs. This is especially important for moving from an apartment or rental space. Do a double-check on anything that may need patching up before you’re gone.
One Week to Go
The time has flown by, and you’re just a week away from the big move! Time to ensure everything is under control to avoid any unwanted surprises:
- Double-check the boxes you’ve packed. The last thing you want is a box of cherished memories or personal items to end up all over the floor. Ensure the boxes are stable and properly sealed.
- Start cleaning. No one likes cleaning but getting a head start on it can make a world of difference and will reduce the stress behind getting it done on time. By the middle of the week, you should be well ahead on deep cleaning your home.
- What’s in your fridge? As the week progresses, tipi’ll want to start cleaning out your fridge and freezer, down to the last few things you may need in your final week. You’ll want to start defrosting your fridge about 24 hours before moving if necessary.
- Lock up your valuables. You want to lose expensive or valuable jewellery, especially family heirlooms, so investing in a lockbox and ensuring you have them all secured and ready to move is essential.
Moving Day!
The day is finally here! You’re ready to move into your new home. But there are a few things to check off before getting started:
- Disassemble the bed. After a solid night’s sleep, it’s time to disassemble your bedroom sets for an easier and smoother move. Good news, with Orange Truck Movers, you can skip this step. We include this service as well disassembly and packing of other large items in our hourly rate packing and protection and no additional cost. Check out our FAQ for more information.
- Organize, organize, organize. The order in which items are moved matters. Prioritizing items to be loaded and unloaded first gives you easy access and knowledge of where everything is. With Orange Truck Movers, you don’t have to worry about any of this, we have all the details, covered.
- Grab any loose items! Things that may have been used that morning or the night before, such as utensils, toothbrushes, and dinner plates, no item left behind! If you choose our full packing services at Orange Truck Movers, we can take this moving day detail, off your mind.
- Do a triple-check. It’s never fun to try to move your fridge only to learn there’s still milk or other food in it. Do another check on the morning of your move to ensure all appliances and cupboards are clear of forgotten items.
Remember this checklist and get started early for the smoothest and easiest moving experience. Trust us, by the last week, you’ll feel the relief of having less to worry about before your moving day!
