What To-Do Before Your Move

If the thought of moving makes your head spin, you're not alone. Stay calm, take a deep breath, and keep your eye on the destination. Start by preparing a To-Do list in advance with everything you'll need to finish in the weeks leading up to moving day. Use our two-month sample calendar below to help you brainstorm. 

​Sort & Purge

Go through every room and decide what is being packed and transported by the movers, what is being packed and taken with you, what is trash, and what is being donated. Some movers will donate furniture or dispose of large items for an additional fee. Think about what you have that will require extra coverage or special packing. Get everything that isn't coming with you to the new home out of the way. 

Research Moving Companies

Doing your research every step of the way is the best protection against moving scams. Ask any moving company you're considering to use about licenses and valuation information. Collect and compare written estimates from only insured moving companies. For an accurate quote, have an estimator come to your home and evaluate the items being moved. Over-the-phone quotes may not be accurate if you forget to mention something. As a result, the total on moving day may be higher than the estimate. For tips on how to find a reputable mover, read 3 Ways to Find A Mover You Can Trust. Discuss with the estimator any additional services you may need like packing, unpacking, shipping, storage, disposal, or cleanouts. Once you've chosen a mover, schedule moving day as soon as possible, especially if you're relocating during on-peak moving season (May through September). Moving companies get booked quickly and will have less flexibility if you wait too long.

Buy Moving Supplies

For things you'd like to pack and take with you, have plenty of boxes, plastic wrap, packing paper, bubble wrap, cushion foam, and tape on hand. If you're using packers, some moving companies require you to purchase the supplies separate from the labor. Keller Moving determines how many boxes you'll need during the estimate and includes the cost of labor in the quote. Be sure to understand the fees involved with using packers, or any other additional services, from your moving company.

Pack & Label

If you're packing your own boxes, pack the items you don't use often first, and everyday items last. Take note of any valuable items that might require additional coverage. Declare anything valued over $100 per pound in writing. Separate valuables that you'll be transporting yourself, such as jewelry and your safe box, as well as anything the movers can't take. Keep track of your belongings by labeling and numbering each box with its contents and destination room. At any time, if you decide to use packers, call your moving company and let them know.   

Confirm Arrangements

A few days before your move, call the moving company and reconfirm your appointments. Confirm the details for any additional services you booked and their arrival times. Be sure the moving company has the most up-to-date driving directions to your new home. Verify your payment plan and contact information.

From researching moving companies to unpacking boxes in your new home, there is a lot to do when you're moving. Planning is the first step. Grab a pen and paper, take a seat, and start making a list. Add reminders to your calendar, or use mobile apps, to help you stay on track during the moving process. You'll be glad you did!