Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but with proper planning and organization, it doesn’t have to be. Our friends at Milvus Moving Company helped us put together a list of recommendations for people who are about to move. Here is a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare for your move:
- Create a timeline: Set a moving date and work backwards to create a timeline for all of the tasks that need to be completed before the move.
- Sort and declutter: Go through all of your possessions and sort them into categories: keep, toss, or donate. This will not only make the packing process easier, but it will also save you money on moving expenses.
- Notify important parties: Inform your utility companies, banks, and other important parties of your upcoming move and provide them with your new address.
- Hire a moving company: Research different moving companies and compare their services, prices, and reviews. Once you’ve found a reputable company, book them well in advance of your moving date.
- Gather packing materials: Purchase or gather boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and other materials you will need to pack your belongings.
- Pack non-essential items first: Start packing non-essential items such as seasonal clothing and decorations well in advance of the move. This will make the last-minute packing process less stressful.
- Label your boxes: Clearly label each box with the contents and the room it belongs in. This will make it easier for you to unpack and for the movers to place the boxes in the correct room.
- Make arrangements for pets and plants: Make arrangements for your pets to be cared for during the move and for your plants to be transported.
- Update your address: Update your address with the post office and make sure your mail is forwarded to your new address.
- Clean your old home: Before leaving your old home, make sure to clean it thoroughly to ensure you get your security deposit back.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that your move is as stress-free and organized as possible. Remember to take it one step at a time and stay organized throughout the process.
I’m not sure what counts as a non-essential item when I’m packing ahead of the move. Is there a standard list, or does it just depend on your lifestyle? I want to make sure I don’t pack away something I’ll need before moving day.
Non-essential items are generally things you can live without until after your move. This often includes off-season clothes, books, decor, extra kitchenware, and rarely used gadgets. There’s no strict standard list because everyone’s needs differ, so consider what you use daily or weekly—keep those out and pack the rest. If you’re unsure, set aside anything you might need just in case, like important documents or toiletries.
The checklist mentions making arrangements for pets and plants, but I’m not sure how to safely move my big indoor plants. Do you have any tips for keeping them healthy during and after the move?
To move large indoor plants safely, water them a day or two before moving so the soil is moist but not soggy. Use sturdy boxes to support the pots and cushion them with newspaper or towels to prevent tipping. Avoid exposing plants to direct sun or extreme temperatures during transit. After moving, let your plants adjust gradually to their new environment by keeping them away from drafts and letting them settle before watering again. This helps minimize shock and keeps your plants healthy.
I noticed the checklist says to research different moving companies and compare their prices and services. Are there any specific warning signs I should watch out for to avoid unreliable or potentially fraudulent moving companies?
Yes, there are several warning signs to look out for when choosing a moving company. Be cautious of companies that require large deposits upfront or only accept cash payments. Avoid movers with no physical address or unmarked trucks. Also, check for proper licensing and insurance. If they are hesitant to provide written estimates or pressure you to sign blank or incomplete documents, that’s a red flag. Reading online reviews and checking with organizations like the Better Business Bureau can also help spot unreliable movers.
The checklist mentions making arrangements for pets and plants. Do you have advice on the best way to safely transport houseplants, especially during a cross-state move in hot weather?
To safely transport houseplants during a cross-state move in hot weather, water them well the day before but not right before moving to avoid soggy soil. Use sturdy boxes and cushion pots with paper to prevent tipping. Keep plants out of direct sunlight in your vehicle and try to move them early in the day to avoid peak heat. If possible, ventilate the car and avoid leaving plants inside unattended for long periods.
When you mentioned hiring a moving company and booking in advance, how far ahead do you recommend booking, especially during busy seasons like summer? Are there typical timeframes that help lock in the best rates?
For busy seasons like summer, it’s best to book your moving company at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance. This timeframe gives you a better chance of securing your preferred date and often helps you get more competitive rates. If you’re moving during off-peak times, booking 4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.
When it comes to notifying banks and utility companies about your new address, is there an ideal timeframe for doing this so I don’t miss any important bills or services during the move?
To avoid missing bills or service interruptions, it’s best to notify your banks and utility companies about your new address about two to four weeks before your move. This gives them enough time to process the change and ensures your important mail and services are redirected smoothly. Some companies can update your records right away, while others may need a few days, so earlier is better.
I’m curious about the best way to compare moving companies as mentioned in your checklist. Are there particular red flags I should look out for to avoid getting scammed or overcharged?
When comparing moving companies, always check that they’re licensed and insured. Get written estimates from at least three companies and be wary of unusually low quotes. Look out for companies that ask for large upfront deposits or only accept cash. Also, read recent reviews and pay attention to complaints about hidden fees, last-minute charges, or poor communication.
How far in advance do you suggest starting to sort and declutter everything? I have a lot of stuff and I’m worried I might run out of time before moving day.
For a smooth move, it’s best to start sorting and decluttering at least six to eight weeks before your moving day, especially if you have a lot of belongings. This gives you time to tackle each room without feeling rushed. Try setting small daily or weekly goals, such as focusing on one closet or set of drawers at a time, to make the process more manageable.
I have two young kids and a dog, so moving day gets pretty chaotic. Do you have any tips on how to keep everyone safe and entertained while the movers are working, especially if we don’t have childcare lined up?
On moving day, set up a separate safe room with toys, snacks, and activities for your kids and dog, away from the main moving areas. This helps prevent accidents and keeps them occupied. If possible, rotate supervising duties with another adult to give yourself breaks. For your dog, consider a crate or closed room with familiar items. Prepare a ‘moving day kit’ with essentials and favorite comfort items to reduce stress for everyone.
I noticed the article mentions making arrangements for pets and plants during a move. Do you have any suggestions for how to safely transport indoor plants across state lines, or is it better to let them go and buy new ones after moving?
Transporting indoor plants across state lines can be challenging due to regulations and the stress on plants during travel. If you decide to move them, check the agricultural rules for your destination state, pack plants securely in boxes with air holes, and avoid extreme temperatures. Sometimes, especially for long distances, it might be easier and less risky to find new plants after moving. Consider gifting current plants to friends or neighbors if transport isn’t feasible.
You mention booking a reputable moving company well in advance. In your experience, how far ahead should I start contacting movers during peak moving seasons to ensure availability and competitive pricing?
During peak moving seasons, like late spring and summer, it’s best to start contacting moving companies at least 8 weeks before your desired move date. This gives you a better chance to compare prices, check reviews, and secure your preferred date. Early booking also helps you avoid last-minute price hikes and limited availability.
Can you give some advice on making arrangements for pets during a move? I have both a dog and a cat, and I’m not sure if I should board them for the day or try to keep them with us while everything is being packed and moved.
During a move, pets can become stressed by the noise and unfamiliar activity. Boarding your dog and cat for the day is often the safest option, as it keeps them secure and out of harm’s way. If you prefer to keep them with you, set up a quiet, enclosed room with their essentials—food, water, toys, and bedding—so they feel safe while movers work. Whichever option you choose, keeping their routine as normal as possible will help reduce anxiety.
For small business owners who have a lot of inventory and equipment, do you have any extra packing or labeling tips? The standard label-by-room method seems more geared towards homes, so I’m wondering how best to adapt this for a shop or office move.
For a business move, consider labeling by inventory type, department, or equipment category instead of just location. Number each box and keep a master list that details contents and destination for easier tracking. Use color-coded labels for quick identification, and tag fragile or high-priority items clearly. Photograph equipment setups before disassembly so you can reassemble them correctly at the new site.
Could you provide more details on what to do if I don’t get my security deposit back, even after thoroughly cleaning my old place as suggested? I’m nervous about landlords being picky.
If your landlord refuses to return your security deposit despite you thoroughly cleaning and meeting your responsibilities, start by asking for a written explanation and itemized deductions. Keep records of your cleaning efforts, photos, and any communication. If the answer is unsatisfactory, you can send a formal demand letter. As a last resort, consider small claims court, where documentation will help your case. Local tenant organizations can also offer advice.
When the article mentions booking a moving company well in advance, how far ahead do most people usually book? I’m juggling my kids’ school schedules, so wondering if I need to secure movers several months out or is a few weeks enough?
Most people book a moving company about 4 to 8 weeks before their move, especially during busy times like summer or the end of the month. If you’re working around school schedules or have specific dates in mind, it’s best to lean toward booking at least 2 months in advance to guarantee availability and flexibility.
The checklist talks about making arrangements for pets and plants, but what are some practical ways to keep pets calm and safe during a long-distance move? I have a dog who gets anxious with change.
To keep your dog calm and safe during a long-distance move, try to maintain their usual routine as much as possible and pack their favorite toys, bedding, and treats. Take regular breaks for walks and water if you’re driving. Consider using a crate if your dog feels secure in one, and talk to your vet about calming aids or mild sedatives if anxiety is severe. Make sure your dog’s ID tags and microchip details are up to date in case they get lost.
What do you recommend as the best way to handle moving with young kids and pets? The article mentions making arrangements for pets, but I’d love more specific tips on keeping everyone safe and calm during the actual move.
On moving day, keeping kids and pets safe and calm can be a challenge. If possible, arrange for a trusted friend, family member, or sitter to look after them away from the hustle. Pack a bag with familiar toys, snacks, and comfort items for both kids and pets. Set up a quiet space in your new home as soon as you arrive, so they can settle in while you unpack. Keeping routines, like regular meals and walks for pets, also helps everyone adjust smoothly.
About notifying important parties and updating my address, is there a recommended order for doing this to make sure I don’t miss anything? Are there any commonly forgotten organizations I should add to my list?
It’s best to start with government agencies like the post office for mail forwarding, then update your address with your bank, credit cards, and insurance providers. After that, notify your employer, healthcare providers, schools, and utility companies. People often forget to update online shopping accounts, loyalty programs, magazine subscriptions, and their voter registration, so be sure to include those as well.
When you say to clean the old home thoroughly to get the security deposit back, what are the common areas landlords usually check? Are there specific things I should focus on to avoid deductions?
Landlords usually inspect kitchens and bathrooms closely, checking appliances, sinks, countertops, floors, and cabinets for cleanliness and damage. Walls, baseboards, and carpets are also commonly checked for stains or scuffs. Make sure to remove all trash, wipe down surfaces, clean windows, and fill nail holes. Pay special attention to appliances like ovens and refrigerators, as missed spots there often lead to deductions.
For someone moving with large furniture or fragile items, would you recommend hiring specialized movers or does a standard moving company usually handle those as well?
Standard moving companies often handle large furniture and some fragile items, but if you have especially bulky, antique, or highly delicate pieces, hiring specialized movers is a safer bet. They have the right equipment and expertise for packing and transporting these items securely. You can also ask standard movers about their experience with fragile or oversized items before deciding.
The checklist says to notify utility companies and banks of my move. Is there a recommended timeframe for when I should start updating my address with all these parties to avoid service interruptions or missed mail?
It’s best to start updating your address with utility companies, banks, and other important organizations about two to four weeks before your move. This gives them enough time to process the change and helps prevent service interruptions or missed mail. For utilities, contact them early to schedule shut-off or transfer dates aligned with your move-in and move-out.
Can you elaborate a bit on choosing a moving company? Are there specific red flags I should look out for, or questions I should ask to make sure I’m hiring a reliable team, especially since I’ve had issues with damaged items during a previous move?
When choosing a moving company, ask if they’re licensed and insured, and request a written estimate. Get clear details on how they handle damage claims, and check online reviews for consistent complaints about lost or damaged items. Red flags include vague pricing, refusal to provide references, or demanding large deposits upfront. It’s also helpful to ask how they train their staff and protect fragile belongings.
When you mention gathering packing materials, do you have suggestions for where to find free or affordable boxes and supplies? I’m trying to move on a tight budget and don’t want to spend too much on packing materials.
You can often find free boxes at grocery stores, liquor stores, bookstores, and local retailers—just ask if they have extras from recent shipments. Community groups, like those on social media or neighborhood boards, sometimes have people giving away boxes and packing supplies. For affordable options, check big-box stores, dollar stores, or online marketplaces where people sell unused moving materials at a discount.
Can you give more details about making arrangements for pets during the move? I’m concerned about how to handle my cat on moving day and during transport.
For your cat, set aside a quiet room on moving day with familiar items like their bed, toys, litter box, and food to minimize stress as movers work. Use a secure, well-ventilated carrier for transport, and keep the carrier in a calm, temperature-controlled area in your vehicle. Try to stick to your cat’s feeding and medication schedule. Once you arrive, set up a similar quiet space in your new home to help your cat adjust gradually.
You mention updating your address with the post office, but are there other government agencies or services in the US I should remember to notify when I move?
Absolutely, besides the post office, it’s important to notify agencies like the DMV for your driver’s license and vehicle registration, the IRS for tax purposes, Social Security if you receive benefits, and your state’s voter registration office. Also remember to update your address with any benefit programs you’re part of, such as Medicare or Medicaid.
When it comes to hiring movers, what should I look for in reviews to make sure I’m choosing a reliable moving company? Are there any red flags to watch out for?
When reading reviews for moving companies, check for consistent mentions of punctuality, care with belongings, and clear communication. Positive feedback about resolving issues is also a good sign. Red flags include repeated reports of damaged or missing items, hidden fees, poor customer service, or last-minute cancellations. Also, be wary if the company has very few reviews or a pattern of similar complaints.
With budgeting in mind, do you have tips for finding affordable packing materials or ways to save on moving company costs beyond just comparing quotes?
To save on packing materials, try collecting free boxes from grocery or liquor stores, and use towels, linens, or newspapers as padding. For moving companies, consider moving on a weekday or during the off-season when rates are lower. Also, see if you can handle some tasks yourself, like packing or disassembling furniture, to reduce service costs.
If I’m moving with pets, do you recommend boarding them on moving day, or is it better to have them with a family member? Also, any suggestions for making the transition less stressful for them?
Both boarding pets and leaving them with a trusted family member can help reduce stress on moving day—consider your pet’s personality and comfort with each option. If they feel safer with familiar people, a family member is often the better choice. To make the transition easier, keep their routine as normal as possible, prepare their essentials in a separate bag, and make sure they have familiar toys or bedding to help them feel secure.
Could you offer any advice on how small business owners can handle notifying clients or customers about a change of address? I noticed the checklist mentioned banks and utilities, but I’m not sure about best practices for communicating with business contacts.
For small business owners, it’s important to notify clients and customers proactively about your address change. Send a personalized email or letter to your key contacts well in advance, ideally a few weeks before the move. Post an announcement on your website and social media. Update your business address on online directories, invoices, and email signatures. Consider adding a note about the move in your next newsletter or order confirmation to ensure everyone is informed.
The checklist suggests starting with non-essential items first, but is there an ideal timeframe for when to pack essentials, especially with younger children at home who need their daily things right up until moving day?
For families with young children, it’s best to pack essentials like favorite toys, daily clothes, and necessary items the night before or the morning of your move. Keep a dedicated essentials box or bag for each child, so their important items are easy to find and accessible right up until you leave. This helps minimize disruption to their routine during the move.
The checklist mentions gathering packing materials like boxes and bubble wrap. Do you have any tips for finding free or low-cost packing supplies in the US, or are there certain stores that generally have the best deals?
You can often find free boxes at grocery stores, liquor stores, or bookstores—just ask if they have extras from recent shipments. Many people also post free moving supplies on local community boards or online marketplaces. For low-cost options, check big-box retailers or home improvement stores, which sometimes run specials or sell moving kits. Recycling centers are another place to ask about gently used boxes.
When you talk about decluttering before the move, do you have any advice on how to manage this efficiently if we’re both working full time? I’m worried we won’t have enough time to sort everything without falling behind on the rest of the checklist.
If you’re both working full time, break decluttering into small, manageable tasks. Focus on one room or category each evening or weekend, and set a timer for 30–45 minutes so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Make quick decisions: keep, donate, or toss. You could also involve friends or family for support, or hire a professional organizer if your schedule is really tight. Spreading tasks out helps you stay on track with the rest of your moving checklist.
For people with cats or dogs, what’s the best way to make arrangements for them on moving day? The checklist mentions caring for pets but I wonder if a boarding service or asking a friend is usually less stressful for them.
Boarding services and asking a friend each have their pros and cons, but many pets feel less stressed staying with someone they know, like a friend or family member. If that’s not possible, a reputable boarding facility can be a good option—just be sure to visit it in advance. Whichever you choose, keep routines as normal as possible and pack familiar items like toys or bedding to help your pet feel secure.
For hiring a moving company, is there a recommended amount of time in advance that I should book, particularly during peak moving seasons in the US?
During peak moving seasons in the US, such as late spring and summer, it’s best to book a moving company at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance. This helps ensure you get your preferred date and moving company, as schedules fill up quickly. For off-peak times, booking 4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.
If I need to move on short notice and don’t have time to follow every step in the checklist, which steps would you say are absolutely essential for a smooth move, and which could realistically be skipped or simplified?
If you’re pressed for time, focus on essentials like booking your movers or truck, sorting and packing your most important belongings, and arranging utilities at your new place. Skip deep cleaning or detailed sorting—just pack as efficiently as possible. Label boxes by room, keep valuables and paperwork handy, and deal with minor tasks like address changes or non-urgent donations after moving.
The checklist mentions hiring a moving company and comparing prices, but as a college student on a tight budget, are there ways to save money during the moving process, like maybe doing some things myself or negotiating rates?
Absolutely, there are several ways to save money when moving on a college budget. You can pack and move smaller items yourself, ask friends for help, and try to find free boxes from local stores. For bigger items, you might only hire movers for the heavy lifting or for transport. Also, don’t hesitate to ask moving companies for student discounts or off-peak rates—sometimes they’re willing to negotiate or match lower prices.
I noticed you mentioned hiring a moving company early, but how far in advance do you recommend booking, especially during busy seasons? As a small business owner, my schedule fills up fast and I’m worried about limited availability for reputable companies.
During busy moving seasons like summer or at the end of the month, it’s best to book a reputable moving company at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance. For small business owners with tight schedules, booking even earlier—up to 3 months ahead—can ensure you get your preferred dates. Try to confirm all details with the company early on to avoid last-minute issues.
When you mention updating your address with the post office, is there a recommended timeframe for doing that before the move to avoid any interruption in mail delivery? I want to make sure none of my important mail gets lost during the transition.
To avoid missing any important mail, it’s best to update your address with the post office about two weeks before your moving date. This gives them enough time to process your request and ensures your mail will be forwarded to your new address without interruption. Make sure to also notify banks, insurance companies, and other essential contacts separately.
I saw your point about sorting and decluttering before the move. Do you have any tips on how to involve kids in this process or make it less overwhelming for a busy family?
Getting kids involved can actually make sorting and decluttering easier and more fun. Try giving them their own boxes to pack, letting them choose which toys or clothes to keep, donate, or toss. Turn it into a game with small rewards for each area finished. Keeping sessions short and focusing on one room at a time also helps keep things manageable for busy families.
When it comes to hiring a moving company, how far in advance do you usually need to book to make sure you get a good rate and secure your preferred date?
To secure your preferred moving date and better rates, it’s best to book a moving company about 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons like summer or at the end of the month. Booking early gives you more flexibility with dates and can help you avoid higher prices or limited availability.
The checklist mentions notifying important parties about an address change—are there particular services or agencies people often forget to notify that could cause problems later on?
People often overlook notifying their local doctor or dentist, magazine or subscription services, and loyalty programs about their address change. It’s also common to forget updating your address with online shopping accounts, alumni associations, and pet microchip registries. Missing these can lead to lost mail, missed appointments, or complications in emergencies, so it’s worth double-checking these less obvious contacts.
Your timeline checklist sounds super helpful, but what would you recommend if my moving date gets changed last minute? How should I adjust my plans, especially with hiring movers and notifying companies?
If your moving date changes last minute, start by contacting your movers right away to reschedule—they may have availability or suggest alternatives. Next, update your utility providers, postal service, and any companies you’ve already notified about your move. Adjust your packing plan based on the new date, focusing first on essentials and anything that needs special handling. Staying flexible and communicating promptly with everyone involved will help minimize disruption.
In your checklist, you suggest booking a moving company well in advance. How far ahead is considered safe for booking, especially during busy seasons like summer? Is it common for reputable movers in the US to require deposits?
Booking a moving company at least 6 to 8 weeks before your move is usually safe, especially during peak times like summer when schedules fill up quickly. For really busy periods, some people book even earlier—up to 3 months in advance. In the US, it’s common for reputable movers to require a deposit to secure your date, but the amount varies, so always confirm terms before paying.
You mentioned cleaning the old home to get the security deposit back. Are there any specific areas landlords in the US tend to focus on during their inspections that I should pay extra attention to?
Landlords in the US often pay close attention to kitchens and bathrooms, especially appliances, sinks, and grout. Walls and floors are usually checked for scuffs, holes, or stains. Windows, blinds, and baseboards should be free of dust and damage. Don’t forget inside closets and cabinets, as these are commonly overlooked but routinely inspected. Doing a final walkthrough with a checklist can help catch anything you might miss.
Your checklist talks about decluttering before packing, but I’m struggling to let go of some items that might be useful later. How do you decide what to keep versus donate, especially on a tight budget with kids who might need things down the line?
It can be tough to make decluttering decisions, especially with kids and a budget in mind. One approach is to keep items that your family currently uses or will realistically need in the next year. For things your kids might grow into, set a limit on how much you keep based on storage space. If you’re unsure, box up the maybes and label them. If you don’t use them in six months, consider donating them. This way, you still have what you need without hanging onto too much.
The checklist suggests booking a moving company well in advance. How far ahead do you usually need to reserve one, especially during peak seasons like summer? I’m worried about availability and price changes if I wait too long.
For peak moving seasons like summer, it’s best to book a moving company at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Many companies fill up quickly during these months, and prices often go up closer to your move date due to higher demand. If you’re able, securing your reservation early will give you more options and usually a better rate.
For people moving out of apartments, does the cleaning step usually mean hiring a professional cleaner, or is a DIY deep clean enough to guarantee getting your security deposit back? I’ve heard mixed things from friends.
Whether you need to hire a professional cleaner or do a DIY deep clean often depends on your lease agreement and your landlord’s expectations. Many people successfully get their deposit back after a thorough DIY clean, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, and walls. However, if your landlord is very particular or if your apartment needs heavy-duty cleaning, hiring professionals could be worthwhile. It’s a good idea to check your lease and maybe ask your landlord what level of cleanliness they expect.
I noticed you suggest gathering packing materials, but do you have any tips on where to find free or affordable boxes and supplies, especially if I’m trying to keep moving costs down?
Absolutely, there are several ways to find free or low-cost packing supplies. Check your local grocery or liquor stores, as they often have sturdy boxes they’re willing to give away. Online community groups and marketplaces often list free boxes after others move. Friends, family, and workplaces can also be great resources. For packing materials, consider reusing household items like towels, blankets, and newspapers to cushion fragile items.
You mention making arrangements for pets during the move. I have a cat and was wondering what specific tips you have for minimizing their stress throughout moving day?
For your cat, set aside a quiet room with familiar items like their bed, toys, and litter box on moving day to keep them calm. Keep them in their carrier while movers are active, and avoid changing their routine as much as possible. Once you arrive at your new place, set up a similar safe space before letting them explore gradually.
For the step about sorting and decluttering, do you have any advice on how to decide what to toss versus donate, or tips for getting rid of bigger items like old furniture before moving day?
When sorting and decluttering, try the one-year rule: if you haven’t used or worn something in a year, it’s probably best to let it go. For items in good condition, consider donating to local charities or shelters. For larger furniture, check if donation centers offer pickup services, or use online marketplaces to sell or give away items. Schedule pickups or drop-offs well in advance so you’re not rushing close to moving day.
How do you suggest handling delicate items like houseplants or aquariums on moving day? Is it better to transport them myself or let the movers handle them?
For delicate items like houseplants and aquariums, it’s usually safest to transport them yourself. Plants can be sensitive to temperature changes and rough handling, while aquariums need extra care to prevent leaks or damage. If you must use movers, check that they have experience with these items and discuss any special requirements in advance. For small moves, personal transport gives you more control over their safety.
I noticed the checklist recommends notifying utility companies and banks about the move, but is there a suggested order or best time to do this so we don’t have interruptions in service? My kids rely on having internet for school, so that’s a big concern for us.
To avoid any service interruptions, it’s best to notify utility companies and internet providers at least two to three weeks before your move. Arrange for internet to be set up at your new place as early as possible, ideally scheduling installation for moving day or just before. Notify banks and other institutions about your new address a week before the move to ensure your mail is updated, but utilities and internet should be your top priority for a seamless transition.
I noticed you recommend hiring a moving company well in advance. Is there an ideal timeframe for booking movers to get the best rates and availability, especially if I have some flexibility with my moving date?
Booking your moving company 6 to 8 weeks before your desired move date usually gives you the best rates and availability, especially during busy seasons like summer or the end of the month. If your dates are flexible, consider moving on a weekday or in the middle of the month, as these times are often less expensive and easier to book.
You mention hiring a moving company and booking them in advance, but I’m on a student budget. Are there any ways to save money when hiring movers, or things to watch out for in contracts or fees?
To save money when hiring movers, consider moving on a weekday or mid-month, as rates are often lower then. Ask about student discounts, and get quotes from several companies for comparison. Watch for hidden fees, like charges for stairs or long carry distances. Always read the contract carefully to check for cancellation policies and extra service fees before signing.
The article mentions making arrangements for pets and plants during the move. Do you have any tips on how to safely transport houseplants across state lines, or is it better to give them away before moving?
Transporting houseplants across state lines can be tricky because some states have regulations to prevent pests and diseases. Before moving, check the agricultural rules for your destination state. If allowed, pack your plants in sturdy boxes with ventilation, water them a day or two before moving, and avoid leaving them in hot vehicles. If you’re moving a long distance or into a region with strict rules, gifting your plants to friends may be the best option.
Could you elaborate more on the timeline? For a student who might be balancing final exams with moving, how far in advance should each step be started?
For students juggling exams and moving, it’s best to start early. About 6–8 weeks before moving, begin decluttering and gathering packing supplies. Four weeks out, notify your landlord and update addresses. Two weeks before, start packing less-used items and confirm moving logistics. After finals, pack essentials and clean the space. Spreading tasks out like this can help reduce stress during a busy time.
When packing up my small business office, do you have any tips for organizing sensitive documents and electronics, especially since you mentioned labeling boxes by room? I want to make sure nothing important gets lost or damaged during the move.
For sensitive documents, use clearly labeled, sealed folders or envelopes, and keep them together in one secure box—consider taking this box with you personally. For electronics, back up all data, detach cables, and use original packaging if possible. Label each electronics box with both contents and destination room. Take photos of cable setups before disconnecting to make reassembly easier.
I noticed your checklist mentions researching different moving companies and comparing their prices. Do you have any tips on what red flags to look out for when picking a moving company so I don’t get scammed?
Watch for companies that give vague estimates instead of in-home or detailed quotes, ask for large deposits upfront, or lack a physical address and proper licensing. Be wary if reviews are overwhelmingly negative or if they refuse to provide a written contract. Also, avoid movers with unclear insurance policies or those who pressure you to sign quickly. Always double-check their credentials and reputation before committing.
When you mention cleaning the old home to get your security deposit back, are there particular cleaning steps landlords typically look for, like carpet shampooing or appliance cleaning?
Landlords usually expect a thorough cleaning before refunding your security deposit. This often includes vacuuming and cleaning carpets (sometimes even shampooing if there are stains), wiping down all surfaces, cleaning inside appliances like ovens and refrigerators, scrubbing bathrooms, and making sure all trash is removed. Pay attention to corners, baseboards, and any marks on walls, as these are areas landlords commonly check.
When researching moving companies, what are some red flags or warning signs I should look out for to avoid scams or bad experiences? I saw you recommend comparing services and reviews, but I’m not sure what else to watch out for as a college student on a budget.
Watch out for moving companies that don’t have a physical address or a professional website, as well as those that ask for a large cash deposit upfront. Be cautious if they give you a much lower quote than others or avoid giving written estimates. Check for a valid license and insurance, and be wary if the company uses generic rental trucks instead of branded vehicles. Poor or no reviews online can also be a warning sign.
You mentioned hiring a moving company and booking them in advance, but I’m not sure how far ahead I should start reaching out to moving companies. Is there a suggested timeline for when to start getting quotes and officially booking?
Ideally, you should start reaching out to moving companies and getting quotes about 6 to 8 weeks before your move date. This gives you enough time to compare options and secure your preferred company, especially during busy seasons. Try to book your chosen movers at least 4 weeks in advance to ensure availability.
When you mention informing utility companies and other important parties about the move, how far in advance do you recommend doing this so there’s no gap in services at the new place? I’m concerned about making sure my utilities are active when I arrive.
To avoid any service gaps, it’s best to notify utility companies and important parties about your move at least two to three weeks before your moving date. This gives them enough time to schedule service transfers or new connections, so your utilities like electricity, water, and internet will be active when you arrive at your new home.
As a parent with young kids, I’m a bit stressed about how to keep them occupied and safe during the chaos of moving day. Do you have any practical tips or suggestions for making arrangements for children while movers are working, similar to the pet advice you mentioned?
Absolutely, keeping young kids safe and entertained during a move can be challenging. If possible, arrange for a trusted friend, family member, or babysitter to watch them away from the house. If that’s not an option, set up a safe play area in a quiet room with their favorite toys, snacks, and activities. Make sure movers know the kids’ area is off-limits. Having a small bag with essentials like snacks, water, and comfort items can also help reduce stress for everyone.
The checklist suggests packing non-essential items first. How do you decide what counts as essential versus non-essential, especially if you’re packing over a few weeks? Any tips to avoid accidentally packing something I’ll need before moving day?
Think about your daily and weekly routines—essentials are items you use regularly, like toiletries, chargers, important documents, a few sets of clothes, and basic kitchenware. Non-essentials are things you can live without for a few weeks, such as books, extra decor, seasonal clothes, or rarely used gadgets. To avoid packing something you’ll need, set aside an ‘essentials zone’ or suitcase for items you’ll keep accessible until moving day, and pack from other areas.
When you mention cleaning your old home to get your security deposit back, are there specific things landlords typically look for beyond basic cleaning? I want to make sure I cover everything so I don’t risk losing my deposit.
Landlords usually expect more than just surface cleaning. Pay special attention to areas like inside appliances (oven, fridge), baseboards, light fixtures, blinds, and bathrooms. Remove all nails from walls and repair holes, wipe down cabinets inside and out, and make sure carpets are vacuumed or professionally cleaned if required. Also, check for any damage or missing items, and replace light bulbs if needed. This thorough approach helps ensure you get your full deposit back.