Proper organization is key to a successful move, and having a timeline allows you to stay on track from start to finish. It’s recommended to start the moving process as soon as possible and to slowly complete the required tasks as needed. This will ensure a smooth, stress-free move and one that doesn’t leave you scrambling at the last minute.
Two Months Before Moving Day
There are many moving tasks you can complete as soon as you have decided to move. The sooner you complete the tasks, the less stressful the move will be as proper organization is key to ensuring a smooth transition.
As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to have the following steps complete approximately two months prior to the big day:
Research moving companies
Get an estimate in writing from each moving company you’re interested in
Create a moving to-do list
Donate or throw away items you won’t be moving
Six Weeks Before Moving Day
As the move-in day fast approaches, it’s time to put in some elbow grease. Approximately six weeks prior to the big day, these are the following tasks you’ll want to have completed:
Research proper moving techniques
Take measurements of your new home
Map out a moving day blueprint
Order proper moving supplies
Stop re-stocking and start using up the things you don’t want to move, such as perishable foods and household supplies
Begin packing things you don’t use frequently
Choose your moving company
Separate your valuables from your other belongings
Create a coding or labeling system for your boxes
Pack up décor, artwork, knickknacks, movies, etc.
Rent a storage unit if needed
One Month Before Moving Day
With only four weeks left until moving day, it’s time to narrow in on the tasks that are often left forgotten. Here are some things to add to your to-do list to ensure a gradual and successful moving process:
Schedule a change of address and mail-forwarding services
Inform companies such as your bank, service providers, health care providers and newspaper subscriptions of your address change
Start separating your belongings into three piles: donate, sell and throw out
Donate, sell or throw out items you’ve separated
Contact service providers to inform them of shut-off/transferring date
Continue packing up the ins and outs of your home
Make alternative arrangements for items that cannot be moved in a moving truck
One Week Before Moving Day
There should be very little left for you to do as you approach the two-week deadline. The majority of your items should be packed, your services are scheduled to be switched over to your new address and your current home is starting to look a little bare. But before you call it a day, make sure you have the following tasks completed:
Reconfirm arrangements with your moving company
Pack an overnight moving bag
Put together a moving day essentials box
Take inventory of the items being moved
Defrost the freezer
Give your home a deep-clean
One Day Before Moving Day
Finally, the big day has arrived! The only things left for you to sit back and wait for the moving truck to arrive. Now would also be a great time to prepare the home and property for safe and efficient moving by completing the following tasks:
Shovel/salt walkways
Layer the floors with a protective surface
Remove doors as needed
Wash down and unplug your appliances
Send the kids (and animals) off to their grandparents
If organization isn’t your forte or the complex tasks involved with moving seem too overwhelming for you to bear, take advantage of BMS Moving & Storage. We offer professional full-service moving solutions that handle all of your moving requirements from start to finish.
