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It happens more often than you'd think.

A family calls us, feeling confident about their upcoming move. "We've got plenty of time," they say. Fast forward a few weeks, and suddenly they’re surrounded by half-packed boxes, scrambling to book last-minute movers, and wondering how they accumulated so much stuff.

It happens all the time, moving feels manageable until it’s not. That’s why we always tell our clients: start early, follow a plan, and moving day will be a breeze.

After helping thousands of families, professionals, and small business owners relocate, we've developed the ultimate 8-week relocation timeline. This guide breaks down your move into manageable weekly tasks, helping you stay organized, avoid stress, and, most importantly, set yourself up for a smooth transition.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly:
 

  • What to do each week leading up to your move
  • How to declutter and cut down on moving costs
  • How to avoid last-minute packing chaos
  • What moving-day essentials you can’t forget

Whether you’re moving across the city or to a brand-new state, these expert-backed steps will keep you on track. Let’s get started.

8 Weeks Before Moving - Lay the Groundwork for a Stress-Free Move

The most organized moves don’t start with packing boxes, they start with a plan.

8 week moving timeline

Eight weeks might seem like plenty of time, but trust us, it moves fast. By the time moving day arrives, you’ll be thankful you got a head start. This is your window to lay the groundwork, finalize key decisions, and get ahead of the logistics that trip up so many people.

At this stage, we always recommend focusing on three things: choosing a moving company, understanding your moving rights, and getting familiar with your new area.

  1. Start Researching Moving Companies

Many of our clients assume they can book movers a few weeks before moving day, only to find out that schedules are full or rates have increased. We always recommend securing a mover at least two months in advance, especially if you’re moving during peak seasons like summer or the end of the month.

Here’s how to avoid common moving company pitfalls:

  • Compare at least three companies - Don’t just go with the first quote. Ask about pricing, hidden fees, and included services.
  • Check credentials - Make sure your mover is licensed and insured. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) allows you to check moving company legitimacy.
  • Ask about insurance coverage - Basic coverage is often minimal. If you have high-value items, consider full-value protection.

Pro Tip from Our Moving Team: We’ve seen customers book last-minute movers only to be hit with extra fees for stairs, long carry distances, or heavy items. Always ask about potential additional charges upfront.

  1. Understand Your Moving Rights & Responsibilities

Most people don’t realize that moving companies have legal obligations and you have rights as a customer.

  • Movers should provide you with a "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" booklet. If they don’t, that’s a red flag.
  • If moving across state lines, the company should have a USDOT number. Look this up to ensure they’re compliant.
  • Understand claim policies in case of damage, don’t wait until something breaks to find out how to file a claim.

Pro Tip: Take photos of valuable items before moving day. If anything gets damaged, having proof of its condition before transport makes the claims process much smoother.

  1. Get Familiar with Your New Area

You don’t want to arrive at your new home and realize you don’t know where the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, or gas station is. If you're moving to a new city, take time to:

  • Research local amenities - Google Maps is your best friend here.
  • If you have kids, check school enrollment deadlines (some have strict cutoffs).
  • Make a list of doctors, dentists, and essential services near your new home.

Pro Tip: Moving for work? Ask your employer if they offer relocation assistance, many companies reimburse moving expenses, but you need to apply in advance.

7 Weeks Before Moving - Lock in Logistics & Stay Organized

At seven weeks out, your move is no longer just an idea, it’s happening. This is when logistics become real, and staying organized will make all the difference.

By now, you should have narrowed down your list of moving companies. If you haven’t booked one yet, this is your last chance to secure your top choice before schedules fill up.

But beyond securing a mover, this is also the week to set up a system for tracking moving costs, planning address changes, and making sure your transition goes smoothly.

Confirm Your Moving Company & Get the Fine Print in Writing

At this stage, your moving company should be booked, confirmed, and documented.

  • Get a written contract. Never rely on verbal agreements, make sure your moving date, costs, and included services are clearly outlined.
  • Verify cancellation policies. Plans can change, know what happens if you need to reschedule.
  • Ask about moving day logistics. Will the truck arrive in the morning or afternoon? Will the crew handle fragile items? The more you know now, the fewer surprises later.

Pro Tip from Our Moving Team: Some moving companies offer free wardrobe boxes on moving day, ask if yours does before spending extra on supplies!

Start Tracking Your Moving Expenses

Many of our clients don’t realize just how quickly small moving costs add up, packing supplies, gas for DIY moves, pet boarding, last-minute storage rentals.

To avoid budget surprises, set up a simple tracking system now:

Use a spreadsheet or app to list costs for:

  • Moving company fees (deposit, final cost, tips)
  • Packing materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
  • Travel costs (gas, flights, hotel stays if applicable)
  • New home expenses (utility deposits, renters insurance)

Keep all moving-related receipts. If you’re relocating for work, some of these may be tax-deductible or reimbursed by your employer.

Pro Tip: Want to cut costs? Some grocery stores, liquor stores, and big-box retailers give away free moving boxes, check locally before buying new ones!

If you need more budget-friendly moving tips, head over to this article - Cheap Movers: Budget-Friendly Moving Tips for College Students

Plan for Address Changes & Service Transfers

Changing your address isn’t just about forwarding your mail, there are dozens of services tied to your old address that you don’t want to overlook.

Start a list of who to notify and schedule changes in advance.

Essential Services:

  • USPS change of address (can be done online)
  • Driver’s license & vehicle registration (if moving out of state)
  • Banks & credit cards (avoid fraud alerts by updating early)
  • Insurance providers (home, auto, health)

Subscriptions & Memberships:

  • Streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime)
  • Gym memberships
  • Magazines & meal delivery kits

Household Services:

  • Schedule utility shut-offs at your old home & set up activation at the new one
  • Transfer or cancel cable, internet, and home security services
  • Update shipping addresses for frequent online shopping sites

Pro Tip: If you rely on prescription medication, call your pharmacy to transfer prescriptions early, this avoids any interruptions during the move.

6 Weeks Before Moving - Smart Packing & Decluttering Starts Now

Six weeks out is when your move starts feeling real, and it’s time to tackle one of the biggest stressors: packing and decluttering.

If you’ve ever moved before, you know that underestimating how much stuff you own is a classic mistake. Clients tell us all the time, “I didn’t think I had that much!” until they start pulling things out of closets and drawers. This is the week to be honest about what’s worth bringing and what needs to go.

Decluttering: Save Money & Make Packing Easier

Did you know? The fewer items you move, the less your move will cost. That’s because moving costs are based on time, weight, and truck space.

Sort items into 4 categories:

  • Keep: Things you actually use and need in your new home.
  • Sell: High-value items (furniture, appliances, collectibles) that can help offset moving costs.
  • Donate: Clothes, kitchenware, books, and décor in good condition—local charities and shelters will appreciate them.
  • Discard: Anything broken, expired, or no longer useful.

Declutter high-impact areas first:

  • Closets - If you haven’t worn it in a year, let it go.
  • Kitchen - Expired pantry items, mismatched Tupperware, old utensils.
  • Bathroom - Toss out expired medication, half-used beauty products, and worn-out towels.
  • Garage/Storage Units - The #1 spot where unnecessary clutter hides.

Pro Tip: Some charities offer free donation pickup for large items, schedule this early to clear space before moving day.

Start Packing Non-Essentials (You Won’t Need These Anytime Soon)

Now that you’ve cleared out what you don’t need, start packing the things you won’t need until after the move.

Good candidates for early packing:

  • Seasonal decorations & clothing - If it’s summer, you won’t need those heavy coats anytime soon.
  • Books & collectibles - Rarely touched but take up a lot of space.
  • Spare dishes & glassware - Pack all but a few essentials to use before moving.
  • Guest room items - If you have a spare room, clear it out first.

How to pack efficiently:

  • Label every box with its room + contents. This saves HOURS during unpacking.
  • Use the "first in, last out" rule. Pack non-essentials at the back of the truck so that must-have items are unloaded first.
  • Don’t overpack boxes. Heavy boxes = potential back injuries and broken items. Stick to 50 lbs max per box.

Need more tips on this topic? Here are a couple articles for you:

Handle Important Transfers & Records

If you’re relocating with children or pets, now is the time to secure essential records and make necessary arrangements.

For Families:

  • Transfer school records if your child is changing schools.
  • Research new pediatricians and dentists in your area.
  • If moving to a new state, check immunization requirements.

For Pet Owners:

  • Request vet records and update microchip contact info.
  • Arrange pet-friendly transportation.
  • Research new groomers, boarding services, or nearby parks.

Pro Tip: Keep all important paperwork in a single, easy-to-access folder, you’ll need it during the move.

5 Weeks Before Moving - Master Your Packing Strategy

At five weeks out, your move is coming up fast, but don’t worry, this is when smart packing pays off. You’ve already decluttered, now it’s time to get serious about packing up your home efficiently.

One of the biggest time-wasters we see during moves? Packing without a plan. Randomly filling boxes means chaos when unpacking, and trust us, no one wants to search through 10 boxes just to find a coffee mug.

Develop a Room-by-Room Packing Plan

Instead of boxing things up randomly, tackle one room at a time, this keeps your packing organized and manageable.

The Best Order to Pack:

  1. Storage Areas (Garage, Basement, Attic, Spare Rooms) - Most of these items aren’t daily essentials.
  2. Decor & Books - Pack framed photos, artwork, and books early, less clutter, less distraction.
  3. Seasonal Items & Hobby Gear - Skis in the summer? Beach chairs in the winter? Pack these first.
  4. Dining & Kitchen (Non-Essentials) - Leave out only what you need for the next few weeks.
  5. Bedrooms (Non-Essentials) - Pack extra bedding, accessories, and out-of-season clothes.
  6. Bathrooms (Extras Only) - Keep only daily essentials accessible.
  7. Living Room & Daily-Use Items - Pack last to minimize disruption.

Pro Tip: Label boxes with both the room name & key items inside. Writing just “Kitchen” isn’t helpful - “Kitchen - Mugs, Coffee Maker, Plates” is.

Packing Smart: Protect Your Belongings & Save Space

Clients often tell us they ran out of boxes because they packed inefficiently. Here’s how to maximize space while keeping items safe.

  • Use Clothes, Towels & Linens as Cushioning - This saves money on bubble wrap and keeps fragile items secure.
  • Pack Plates Vertically - Stacking plates flat increases the risk of breakage. Instead, store them like records with padding between.
  • Wrap Liquids in Plastic Wrap - Take off the cap, place plastic wrap over the opening, then screw the cap back on to prevent leaks.
  • Roll, Don’t Fold Clothes - Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.
  • Keep Hardware in Labeled Bags - Tape screws, bolts, and assembly pieces directly to the item they belong to (like furniture legs).

Pro Tip: Color-code or number your boxes by room. This makes it easy to place them correctly in your new home.

Begin Meal Prepping & Using Up Perishables

By now, your freezer, fridge, and pantry should be on your packing radar. Many people forget about food storage until the last minute.

  • Start Eating Through Your Pantry & Freezer - No one wants to move half-full boxes of pasta or expired condiments.
  • Plan Meals Around What’s Left - Challenge yourself to use up what you have, less waste, less to move.
  • Donate Unopened Non-Perishables - Many food banks will accept canned goods and dry pantry staples.

4 Weeks Before Moving - Lock in the Logistics

With four weeks to go, it’s time to finalize key logistics so nothing falls through the cracks. At this point, your move should feel real, boxes are stacking up, and you’re getting ready to transition into your new home.

To keep everything on track, this week is all about: 

  • Handling official documentation (so you don’t miss mail or have service disruptions)
  • Setting up utilities and essential services at your new home
  • Making sure your moving day details are confirmed and squared away

Change Your Address & Update Important Accounts

This is a small but critical task, missing mail or billing issues can cause major headaches.

  • Submit a Change-of-Address Request with USPS - This ensures your mail is forwarded to your new home. You can do this online in minutes.
  • Update Your Address with Financial Institutions - Banks, credit cards, and loan providers need your correct address to prevent fraud alerts.
  • Notify Subscription Services - Think Amazon, meal kits, magazines, gym memberships, and streaming services.
  • Update Insurance Policies - Home, renters, auto, and health insurance all need to be transferred or updated.

Pro Tip: Some address changes take a few weeks to process, so don’t put this off.

Set Up Utilities & Essential Services at Your New Home

Nothing is worse than moving into a dark, Wi-Fi-free home. Avoid that nightmare by arranging for utilities to be turned on before moving day.

Schedule Utility Transfers or New Service Installations

  • Electricity & Water 
  • Gas (if applicable) 
  • Internet & Cable 
  • Trash & Recycling Services 

Plan for Service Gaps

  • Will your old internet be disconnected before your move? If so, download essential work files ahead of time.
  • Are utility companies backlogged? Some areas have wait times of 2+ weeks for new service installations.

Pro Tip: Schedule your internet installation ASAP, many providers have long wait times, especially in peak moving seasons.

Confirm Your Moving Company Details

At this point, you should have your moving company booked, now it’s time to double-check details to avoid last-minute surprises.

  • Verify Moving Date & Time - Double-check your confirmed moving window.
  • Review Contract & Estimate - Ensure you understand what’s included and what’s extra.
  • Check Building Rules - Some apartments require moving permits, elevator reservations, or proof of insurance (COI).
  • Confirm Parking for the Moving Truck - If street parking is required, check with your local city office to see if a permit is needed.

Pro Tip: If you haven’t booked movers yet, do it now! Last-minute movers do cost more, but they’re a life saver.

Make a Packing Schedule & Stick to It

If you’ve been following our timeline, you’ve already started packing, but now it’s time to get serious.

  • Stick to the “One-Room-At-A-Time” Method - This prevents half-packed rooms from becoming overwhelming.
  • Use a Labeling System - Color-code boxes by room and mark priority items as “Unpack First.”
  • Create a Packing Deadline for Each Area - Bedrooms by this week, kitchen by next, etc.

Pro Tip: Keep valuables, documents, and medications separate, these should travel with you, not on the moving truck.

Declutter Any Last-Minute Items

By now, most of your decluttering should be done. But there’s always more.

  • Tackle the “Maybe” Pile - If you set aside items in the “I’ll decide later” pile, now is the time to make a final call.
  • Donate & Sell Unwanted Items - Many charities offer free pickup for furniture and bulk donations.
  • Recycle or Dispose of Hazardous Items - Movers can’t transport things like cleaning chemicals, paint, or propane tanks.

Pro Tip: Need to get rid of bulky items? Schedule a junk removal service or check if your city offers large-item pickup days.

3 Weeks Before Moving - Protecting Your Valuables & Finalizing Travel Plans

At the three-week mark, moving day is just around the corner, which means it’s time to secure valuables, finalize travel logistics, and handle loose ends before the big day.

Our professional movers have seen it all, clients frantically searching for misplaced passports, lost heirlooms, and expensive items damaged in transit. To avoid these moving nightmares, focus on two key areas this week:

  • Protecting important items (so they don’t get lost or damaged)
  • Finalizing your travel plans (so you’re not scrambling last-minute)

Gather & Secure Valuables (Don’t Let These Get Lost!)

Some things are too important to pack in moving boxes. If it’s irreplaceable or high-value, keep it with you instead of sending it with movers.

Set Aside Important Documents

  • Passport & ID
  • Social Security Card & Birth Certificate
  • Mortgage or Lease Paperwork
  • Insurance Documents
  • Financial Records

Keep Jewelry & Small Valuables Separate

  • Use a lockable jewelry case or a small safe for transport.
  • If moving long-distance, consider shipping valuables with tracking and insurance.

Photograph High-Value Items for Insurance

  • Take clear, timestamped photos of expensive electronics, antiques, or artwork.
  • Store these images in the cloud in case you need them for insurance claims.

Decide How to Transport Family Heirlooms & Sentimental Items

  • If fragile, wrap with extra padding and transport in your own car.
  • If valuable, consider a specialty moving service (especially for artwork or collectibles).

Pro Tip: Store all important items in a clearly labeled bag or box that stays with you. If it’s essential, don’t let it go on the moving truck!

Finalize Your Travel & Moving Day Transportation

If your move requires travel, whether by car, plane, or rental truck, now is the time to confirm every detail. Last-minute travel planning = stress and extra costs.

Confirm Your Moving Day Itinerary

  • Double-check your moving date, truck arrival time, and building access rules.
  • If flying, ensure flights, rental cars, or hotels are booked.

Plan Your Route & Stops (If Driving a Long Distance)

  • Use Google Maps to check for road closures or delays.
  • Map out rest stops, gas stations, and pet-friendly hotels if needed.

Arrange Transportation for Pets or Kids

  • Pets: Book pet-friendly hotels if driving, or check airline pet policies if flying.
  • Kids: Pack an entertainment kit with snacks, games, and chargers.

Double-Check Parking & Unloading at Your New Place

  • Some apartments require parking permits for moving trucks.
  • Confirm whether your new place has elevator access or loading docks.

Pro Tip: If driving, have a roadside emergency kit ready, jumper cables, flashlight, first-aid kit, and extra snacks.

Cancel & Transfer Subscriptions & Services

Now’s the time to cancel, transfer, or update services linked to your current address. Forgetting to do this can result in surprise charges.

Cancel Local Memberships & Subscriptions

  • Gym memberships (many require 30 days’ notice)
  • Local meal delivery services & newspapers
  • Lawn care, pest control, or home maintenance services

Transfer Prescriptions & Medical Services

  • Notify your pharmacy & doctor to transfer prescriptions.
  • Request copies of medical records if changing providers.

Pro Tip: If you have automatic payments set up, update your address to prevent issues with billing.

2 Weeks Before Moving - Packing Smart & Prepping Appliances

At this stage, your move is just two weeks away, which means it’s time to finish packing, prep large appliances, and finalize logistics.

By now, you should have packed most non-essentials, but this week is all about tackling bulky items, fragile belongings, and anything that requires extra preparation (like your fridge, washer, and electronics).

Our professional movers have handled thousands of relocations, and we’ve seen what works, and what leads to moving day disasters. Follow these pro-level tips to avoid common packing mistakes.

Packing Fragile & High-Risk Items (Avoid Costly Damage!)

Certain items need extra care to make it to your new home safely. Here’s how to pack them correctly:

Glassware & Dishes:

  • Wrap each dish individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
  • Pack plates vertically (like records) in sturdy boxes.
  • Cushion with dish towels or crumpled paper to prevent movement.

Here are a few more articles to help you out: 

Electronics (TVs, Laptops, Gaming Systems):

  • Take photos of cable connections before unplugging everything.
  • Use original boxes if possible (if not, wrap in thick blankets).
  • Label cables & store them in zip-top bags taped to the device.

Here’s some more info on packing electronics for a move →How to Pack Electronics for a Safe Move

Mirrors, Frames & Artwork:

  • Use corner protectors to prevent frame damage.
  • Wrap in bubble wrap & secure with packing tape.
  • Mark the box “FRAGILE - DO NOT LAY FLAT” for movers.

How to Prep Large Appliances for Moving

Appliances are some of the trickiest items to move, they require proper disconnection, draining, and securing to prevent damage. If you’re hiring professional movers, they won’t disconnect appliances for you, so make sure to handle this before moving day.

Refrigerator & Freezer:

  • Empty & defrost 24-48 hours before moving.
  • Wipe down shelves & dry completely to prevent mold.
  • Remove & pack loose trays, drawers, & food compartments separately.
  • Secure the doors with bungee cords or tape.

Washing Machine & Dryer:

  • Unplug & disconnect hoses (let them dry completely).
  • Place hoses inside the machine or in a labeled bag.
  • Use transit bolts (if available) to prevent drum movement.

Stove & Oven:

  • Clean thoroughly (especially gas stoves to remove grease buildup).
  • Disconnect gas lines & secure knobs.
  • Tape oven racks in place or remove & pack separately.

Here’s a more in-depth article to help you move your appliances→Appliance Moving Services: How to Safely Move Your Heavy Appliances

Final Moving Day Preparations: Don’t Overlook These!

  • Confirm your moving company’s arrival time and final details.
  • Make a plan for kids & pets (moving day can be chaotic, arrange for a sitter if needed).
  • Schedule final garbage pickup for any last-minute trash.
  • Start packing your last-week essentials (kitchen items, daily toiletries, work essentials).

Pro Tip: Keep a small bag of cleaning supplies handy for quick touch-ups before handing over the keys.

1 Week Before Moving – The Final Countdown Begins

You’re in the home stretch! With just one week left before moving day, this is the time to finalize all loose ends, double-check details, and prepare for a smooth transition.

After handling thousands of moves, we’ve seen what separates a stress-free move from a chaotic one and it all comes down to preparation in this final week.

Here’s exactly what to do seven days before your big move.

moving day checklist

Double-Check All Moving Logistics

  • Confirm moving day details with your moving company (arrival time, crew size, truck access).
  • Verify parking arrangements for the moving truck at both locations.
  • Check elevator reservations if you’re in an apartment or condo.
  • Review your contract & estimate, ensure there are no surprises on moving day.
  • Have a Plan B in case of delays (especially for long-distance moves).

Pro Tip: If you’re moving during peak season (summer, weekends, end of month), expect possible delays. Have snacks, water, and patience on standby!

Pack Your Final Essentials Box (A Moving Day Lifesaver!)

This is your survival kit, the items you’ll need right away before unpacking boxes. Keep this separate from the moving truck and bring it with you.

What to Pack in Your Essentials Box:

  • Bedding & pillows (so you’re not digging through boxes at 2 AM!)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, soap, shampoo, toilet paper)
  • 3-5 days’ worth of clothing (including pajamas & comfy moving clothes)
  • Important documents (lease, IDs, insurance, moving contract)
  • Chargers & power bank (for phones & laptops)
  • Basic toolkit (screwdriver, pliers, tape, box cutter)
  • First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, allergy meds)
  • Snacks & bottled water (moving is exhausting - stay fueled!)

Pro Tip: If you have pets, pack a pet essentials bag with food, bowls, leash, and toys to keep them comfortable during the transition.

Clean & Prepare Your Current Home

Most leases require you to leave your apartment in good condition to get your security deposit back. Even if you’re selling a home, a clean space makes for a smoother handoff to the next owner.

Final Cleaning Checklist:

  • Patch small holes in walls (spackling paste works wonders).
  • Wipe down appliances & cabinets (especially the fridge & oven).
  • Vacuum & mop floors to remove dust & debris.
  • Scrub sinks, tubs, & toilets for a fresh final touch.
  • Take out the last trash bags so you don’t leave anything behind.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, hire a professional cleaner. It’s an easy way to ensure you leave your old home in top shape.

Secure Utilities & Address Changes

  • Confirm utility shutoff dates for your current home.
  • Set up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) at your new home before moving day to avoid delays.
  • Transfer renters/homeowners insurance to cover your new place.

Pro Tip: Notify friends & family of your address change too—no one wants their holiday gifts sent to the wrong place! 

Final Moving Day Prep: The Last Checkpoints

  • Take photos of your empty home before leaving (proof for security deposits or sale agreements).
  • Disassemble remaining furniture (beds, shelves, desks) to make loading easier.
  • Secure parking permits if needed for the moving truck.
  • Withdraw cash for unexpected expenses & tipping movers.
  • Get a good night’s sleep, you’ll need the energy for moving day!

Pro Tip: Charge your phone 100% the night before, moving day is full of coordination calls & GPS use!

Moving Day - The Big Event!

The day has finally arrived! Moving day can be hectic, but with the right strategy, you can stay in control and keep things running smoothly. We’ve guided thousands of families, professionals, and business owners through this process, and we know exactly what works.

Here’s how to tackle moving day like a pro.

Start Early & Stay Organized

Moving day waits for no one! The earlier you start, the more time you have to handle surprises.

Your Moving Morning Checklist:

  • Wake up early and eat a solid breakfast, trust us, you’ll need the energy!
  • Double-check that all boxes are labeled correctly by room and priority.
  • Unplug appliances & electronics and secure cords with zip ties.
  • Protect doorways, floors, and walls with blankets or padding to prevent damage.
  • Load your personal car first with essentials, valuables, and important documents.
  • Walk your movers through the home and point out any fragile or heavy items.

Pro Tip: Keep a "Last Out, First In" box with essentials like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, a few tools, and snacks. Load it last so it’s the first thing off the truck at your new home!

Loading the Moving Truck Like a Pro

Proper loading prevents damage and maximizes space. Here’s the best way to load a truck efficiently:

  • Heavy items first → Large furniture, appliances, and mattresses go against the walls.
  • Distribute weight evenly → Keep heavier boxes on the bottom, lighter ones on top.
  • Fragile items last → Keep delicate boxes near the door for easy unloading.
  • Use tie-down straps → Secure tall furniture, mattresses, and loose items to prevent shifting.
  • Roll up rugs & secure them → This prevents them from getting damaged or dirty.
how to load a moving truck

Final Walkthrough: Leave Nothing Behind!

Before you lock the door for the last time, do one final walkthrough. We’ve seen too many people forget critical items in last-minute rushes.

Commonly Forgotten Items:

  • Keys & garage door openers
  • Phone/laptop chargers
  • Bedding left in the washing machine/dryer
  • Documents (leases, medical records, passports)
  • Small wall decor, picture hooks, or shelves
  • Trash & recycling bins (yes, people forget these!)

Pro Tip: Check every cabinet, drawer, closet, and storage space one last time!

commonly forgotten items while moving

Unloading & Settling Into Your New Home

Now comes the exciting part - getting settled into your new space!

How to Unload Efficiently:

  • Unload boxes directly into their labeled rooms (don’t pile everything in the living room!).
  • Assemble beds first so you have somewhere to sleep after a long day.
  • Set up bathroom essentials so you can freshen up easily.
  • Plug in appliances & test utilities (water, electricity, Wi-Fi).
  • Check for any damages or missing items before signing off on the move.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush to unpack everything in one day. Prioritize essentials and take your time setting up your space.

Congratulations - You Did It!

Moving is no small feat, but by following this step-by-step guide, you’ve ensured a smooth transition to your new home. Now it’s time to relax, unpack at your own pace, and start enjoying this fresh chapter in your life.

Before you go, here are a few final steps:

  • Leave a review for your movers (this helps future customers make informed choices).
  • Introduce yourself to neighbors (a simple hello can go a long way).
  • Update your driver’s license & voter registration with your new address.
  • Celebrate! Order some takeout, put your feet up, and enjoy your new space.

Need more moving resources? Check out these guides:
 

Take the stress out of moving and let our professional movers handle the heavy lifting for you.

Contact us today to get started!

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