Whether it’s your first move or you’re a seasoned mover, you may see that moving homes is an exciting yet daunting endeavor, as there are just many things to get done before your move out date arrives. From packing to updating your address, tasks to take care of keep pilling up, making the process seem endless.
AP Pro Moving understands the challenges of moving, that’s why it offers an array of moving services to help you relocate like a pro. We also bring you a practical guide with an essential local moving checklist designed to ease your moving process, ensuring everything runs smoothly in your relocation process.
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Tackle your local move like a pro with a checklist
Have you ever wondered how do people manage and reduce stress when moving? Well, we can tell you it is not always an easy task, but there are several ways to achieve a seamless and stress-free transition to your new place. The most effective tip we have found is to make a local moving checklist.
A checklist is essentially a list of tasks and chores you need to complete by a certain time. It allows you to map out your moving intentions and set goals for each thing that needs to get done. Not only does this help you better organize your time and the whole moving process, but also it gives you a sense of accomplishment when you progressively tick off the tasks.
The goal of making a comprehensive local moving checklist is to help you transition seamlessly into your new environment without forgetting any important tasks, and turn this complex process into a manageable endeavor.
6-5 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE
Start your local moving checklist journey six weeks before your move. Starting early will give you plenty of time and help you stay organized and atop of everything that needs to be done before your move out date. During this period, consider setting goals for the following tasks:
Consider hiring a moving company and get an estimate.
The best tip for a stress-free relocation is to hire a team of professional movers. Hiring a moving company is investing in time saved and efficient solutions for all your relocation needs. Not only can professional movers help you pack your belongings, but will be able to give you a free estimate for your local move, a key step in defining your relocation process.
Book your move out date.
Confirm your move-out date with your moving company to ensure everything is set for the big day. Also, inform your landlord or real estate agent about your departure date. This helps to avoid any potential miscommunication or scheduling conflicts that could add unnecessary stress to your moving process.
Gather important documents.
This is the perfect time to gather and organize critical documents. These may include birth certificates, passports, school records, medical documents, and financial records. Having these on hand will not only speed up the process of settling into your new home but also ensure that no important paperwork is lost during the transition.
Start decluttering your current home.
Start decluttering your current home, as this process will not only simplify the packing, but it also reduces the volume of items you’ll have to transport. Begin with areas like the attic, garage, or basement, as these usually contain items that are infrequently used.
4-3 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE
Once you have ticked off all the tasks included in the above section, and as the countdown to your move out date begins, it is critical to start to tackle down some of the following tasks from your checklist:
Decide what you will keep and what you will leave behind.
This is the perfect time to decide what you want to take with you and what you can sell, donate, or throw away. Decluttering not only reduces the volume of items you need to move, but it can also make unpacking and setting up your new home more manageable.
Donate and recycle.
Donate and recycle what you no longer need. In this way, you will be taking the more sustainable and eco-friendly approach of discarding things you no longer need or want in your space. This allows you to declutter and simplify your move. Consider that many local charities welcome gently used items, and recycling centers are often keen to accept old electronics, paper, and glass.
Start gathering moving supplies.
With just a few weeks left before your big move, it’s time to start gathering essential moving supplies. Ask friends and family for help, as you will need sturdy boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling. Remember, checking the condition of your boxes before packing and double tape the bottom to make them more secure.
Consider getting reusable crates for your move.
Consider investing in reusable crates to pack your belongings. These reusable packing crates are an eco-friendly and more durable solution to your moving needs than traditional cardboard boxes, but this option will save you time, and it will be money well invested. Check AP Pro Moving’s rental crate service to get more information about this great alternative.
2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE
When the two weeks before your move mark arrives, it will be time to start managing the finer details of your moving process.
Make plans for your new home.
At this stage of your relocation process, planning for your new home could get to be a top priority. Begin by planning and creating a detailed floor plan to organize your furniture and belongings efficiently. This will save you significant time and effort on your moving day, also making it easier for your mover to reassemble every piece of furniture in the correct rooms, and avoid any sort of complications.
Notify the post office about your new address.
Now, it is essential to inform the USPS about your new address. This is a critical step in our moving checklist, as it ensures your mail will be forwarded to your new home. You can easily change your address online on the USPS’s official website. It’s a quick, user-friendly process that saves you from the hassle of missing important mail.
Pack a box or bag of essentials.
Pack a box or bag of essentials that will be carried along with you during transit. This should include necessary items such as toiletries, medications, chargers, important documents, and a few days’ worth of clothes. Remember that once everything is packed away, this bag will serve as your survival kit until you’ve fully settled into your new home.
Start packing and label boxes accordingly.
Begin packing items you use less frequently. Then, move room by room and label each box clearly with its contents. Being meticulous in this process and writing the room each box is destined to in your new home, will help with organization and also make unpacking much easier and quicker.
1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR MOVE
One week before your move can be a whirlwind of activity, but don’t let that overwhelm you. This is the perfect time to start packing less essential items, such as books, off-season clothes, and decorative pieces.
Make a meal plan for your week.
Making a meal plan for your last week in your old place can help you have a clear vision of what items need to be consumed before your departure. This will ensure that no food goes to waste and that you can have more free time to dedicate to the moving process.
Arrange for utilities to be disconnected.
Begin by notifying utility providers of your move date. This includes your electricity, water, internet, cable, and any other services you receive. This way, you can ensure that services are discontinued at your old home and set up at your new one seamlessly.
Consider hiring someone to look after your child, or your pet in advance.
As your moving date approaches, it is a good idea to look into different options of care for your child or your pet. With someone taking care of your young kids, or your pets, you will be able to fully focus on the tasks that need to be done before you leave your house, also making it safer when moving heavy furniture, and loading your belongings in the moving truck.
Disassemble your heavy furniture.
Start disassembling your heavy furniture about a week before the scheduled date, as this process can be time-consuming, and that it might require some physical effort. Take breaks in between and make sure that no piece is left behind. Also, keep in mind that your moving company may offer services of disassembly and reassembly of furniture to make your move even easier.
2 DAYS BEFORE YOUR MOVE
Clean the kitchen and defrost your freezer.
Two days prior to your move, it’s time to tackle the kitchen. Start by cleaning all surfaces to remove any residue or food particles. Next, turn your attention to the freezer. Begin the defrosting process now to ensure it’s dry and ready to move. Remember that cleaning and defrosting your freezer prevents the growth of mold and the unpleasant smells associated with it.
Deep clean your house.
After tackling the kitchen and the freezer, it is time to tackle your house. Scrub your floors, dust off your shelves, and sanitize your bathrooms thoroughly. By doing this, not only do you leave your old home in a respectful condition for the next occupants, but it also promotes a healthy, clean environment.
Make unobstructed paths for your movers.
A few days before your move, it is essential to create clear, unobstructed paths for your movers. Take the time to remove and eliminate any potential trip hazards, such as loose rugs, toys, or clutter. Keep hallways, stairways, and entrances free of boxes and furniture to ensure the safety of the movers, preventing any unnecessary delays or accidents.
Seal all boxes in preparation for their transport.
Take a last glance into your moving boxes, and prepare and seal them all securely by using a strong packing tape, so that your belongings will be well-protected during transport. This will also bring you piece of mind when things get moved or loaded into the moving truck.
ON YOUR MOVING DAY
Get ready for your move.
On the day of your move, preparation is key. It is essential that you are well-rested and ready to go. Start early, ensuring all items are packed, labeled, and segregated based on the rooms they belong to. Keep essential items such as medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes handy.
Be present during the process.
Be present during the process, which includes ensuring all your items are properly packaged and labeled, and active involvement and open communication with your movers to make the process smoother. Adjustments might be necessary last minute, and being there in person can help solve any unexpected issues more efficiently.
Do a final walk through your house.
Remember to take a final walk-through of your house, checking all cupboards, closets, and rooms to ensure nothing is left behind or overlooked. Confirm that all the necessary repairs are completed and that the house is clean and ready for the new occupants. This last check can give you a sense of closure and the confidence that you’re leaving your former home in good condition.
Load your car and get ready to go.
Load your car strategically for a hassle-free local drive. Take a bag of essentials with you, and anything you may need during that time. If you are taking spare boxes with you, ensure all items are secure to prevent damage. Remember to keep important documents and valuables with you for easy access.
Why a Moving Checklist is Essential for a Stress-free Local Move
Planning a local move might seem like a straightforward process. You’re not crossing state lines, and perhaps you’re only moving a few blocks away. So, why would you need a checklist? Well, let us tell you. Contrary to what many believe, a local move can be just as complex and stressful as a long-distance one. For that reason, a moving checklist can help you ensure you don’t forget anything and make the whole process more manageable.
Either way, AP Pro Moving LLC is here to help you with your local moving checklist and your local relocation. We understand better than anyone the challenges of moving out, so we offer an array of moving services to make your move a breeze. Be sure to contact us at [email protected] or call +1 (703) 757-6969 to know more about us and get a free estimate.
FAQ’s
When should I start preparing for my local move?
You should ideally start preparing for your local move six to five weeks in advance. This gives you ample time to set goals for tasks such as hiring a moving company, confirming your move-out date, gathering important documents, and starting to declutter your current home.
What are some important tasks to complete a week before the move?
A week before your move, you should start packing less essential items, make a meal plan for the last week, arrange for utilities to be disconnected at your old home and set up at your new one. Also, consider hiring someone to look after your child or pet, and start disassembling heavy furniture to ensure a seamless transition to your new place.
What should I do on the day of the move?
On the moving day, it’s crucial to be well-rested and ready to go. Ensure all items are packed, labeled, and segregated based on the rooms they belong to. Be present during the process to solve any unexpected issues more efficiently, and do a final walk-through of your house to ensure nothing is left behind.
