What to Do Before, During, and After Your Move
Whether you’re moving down the street or across the country, planning ahead can make all the difference. A move involves countless steps and details, and without a plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why using a detailed moving checklist is a must for staying organized and stress-free. With the support of our experienced long distance movers, your relocation will be seamless.
Before Your Move: Essential Pre-Move Tasks
Preparation is key to a successful move. Creating a comprehensive “moving to do list” gives you a clear roadmap to follow and ensures nothing slips through the cracks. Start by researching and booking reputable residential movers well in advance. This helps secure your preferred moving date and reduces last-minute stress.
In the weeks leading up to your move, begin decluttering your home. Decide what to keep, donate, or sell. Not only will this lighten your load, but it also makes packing and unpacking much easier. Packing is best done, room by room, and with clearly labeled boxes to streamline the process. Try these helpful tips:
- Use soft items like towels for padding
- Pack heavier items in smaller boxes
- Label boxes with both contents and the destination, “LIVING ROOM” etc.
- Use color-coded tape or stickers to simplify unloading
When moving it’s also important to handle administrative tasks early. These include:
- Updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you’re changing states.
- Notifying your bank and insurance providers of your new address.
- Forwarding your mail through USPS.
- Schedule utility cancellations and activations
If you need temporary storage, Ward North American offers secure and convenient options.
During Your Move: Managing the Big Day
Moving day can be a whirlwind, but a well-prepared “moving list” will keep you focused. Start the day by confirming the arrival time of your movers and walking through the home to double-check that everything is ready. Make sure all utilities are shut off in your old home and that everything is clean and left in good condition. Here’s a quick day-of-move list to keep in mind:
- Confirm mover’s arrival
- Do a final sweep of each room, check cupboards and closets
- Leave behind keys and garage openers if needed
- Take photos or a video of the empty home for records
Before anything is loaded onto the truck, verify the moving team and review the inventory list to ensure all your belongings are accounted for. If you are working with Ward North American, our professional movers will help you through the process and ensure you have clarity at every stage. Be sure to keep important documents, valuables, and sentimental items with you instead of on the truck.
As you arrive at your new home, your own move in checklist will become essential. Confirm that utilities like electricity, water, and internet are working properly. For an easy start, prioritize these tasks:
- Unpack essential boxes (toiletries, kitchen tools, linens)
- Set up beds and major furniture
- Locate your circuit breaker, water shut-off, and main gas valve
Unpacking kitchen items, toiletries, and bedding first makes your first night more comfortable. If you have kids or pets, make sure they are in a safe, quiet space to avoid accidents or stress. If possible, enlist a relative ,or friend, to look over younger kids and pets.
For those moving to or from an apartment, creating an apartment moving checklist is especially helpful, as it ensures nothing is missed during move-out and helps you comply with leasing agreements.
After Your Move: Getting Settled into Your New Home
Even after the boxes have been delivered, there’s still work to do. Move room by room to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Take time to organize items thoughtfully in your new space; it can help you settle in faster.
Remember to complete any address changes. Keep a list like this for post-move admin:
- Update driver’s license, voter registration, and other government agencies.
- Notify banks and credit card providers
Don’t forget to switch your address for subscriptions and online shopping sites.
It’s also a good idea to walk through your new place and check for any needed repairs or maintenance issues. Addressing small problems early will save you time and money down the road. Finally, introduce yourself to neighbors and explore your new community!
There’s a lot to do with a new move. To keep everything organized throughout the move, download our free moving checklist template and other guides that outline tasks before, during, and after moving day.
Why Choose Ward North American Van Lines
When it comes to moving, experience and trust matter. Ward North American Van Lines brings decades of expertise to every relocation. Our friendly team understands the stress of moving and offers full-service solutions, from packing and loading to storage and delivery.
Contact us today to request a free quote and see how Ward North American can help you move forward with confidence.
