A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Lambert Moving Systems, we've quite literally helped thousands of renters, homeowners, and businesses move since 1925. Now we’re sharing some of that experience with you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Collect all invoices and setup records
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• Choose a safe but handy spot for your paperwork

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• Decide what to sell and put up ads or schedule a sale
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Donation Pickups

• Go through belongings and choose items to donate
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Share useful items with your social circle

Selling Unwanted Items

• List items for sale on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local apps
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Schedule and organize your in-person sale
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Important Documents

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Collect all non-move-related but important paperwork
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• Highlight items requiring extra protection or handling

Photos for Insurance

• Snap pictures of your most expensive things
• Save images to the cloud for insurance and condition records
• Make hard copies or backups in case you need them

Using Up Restricted Items

• Plan meals to use up anything that won’t keep
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Utility Arrangements

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Set the dates to turn off electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash service at your old address
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Managing Banking and Storage

• Plan to visit the bank and empty any safe deposit boxes before a long-distance move
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Do a final check to make sure nothing gets left behind in storage

Change of Address

• Let the post office know your new address so your mail gets forwarded
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Planning for Kids and Pets

• Bring entertainment, snacks, and favorite things for the trip
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• Ensure all pets have current information on identification

Time Off Work

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Let your boss and coworkers know about your move so they can plan around your absence
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Local Services

Planning Your New Space

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Double-check the size of your new rooms so you don't end up with furniture that's too big or too small
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Valuables & Essentials

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and gate codes for both your old and new homes
• Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• See if you should book parking or elevator slots in advance
• Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Making Sure Both Homes Are Clean

• Hire professionals to clean your old place post-move
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Storage Access or Transfer

• If you have items in a storage unit, contact the facility to arrange access on or before moving day
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• Give advance notice of your move to your neighbors
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Thank them for their patience with any noise or inconvenience

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Secure your parking area in advance with easy to see markers or cones

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Packing Personal Items

• Set aside items that you’ll carry yourself for added peace of mind
• Use sturdy boxes or bags for these items and keep them in a safe spot
• Add a prominent “Do Not Move” note so they stay with you

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Pack a box or bag with things you'll need right away at your new home-think toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and a few days' worth of clothes
• Keep this essentials kit easily accessible during your move

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Gather up anything you've borrowed from friends, neighbors, or the library
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Make sure you have enough medication to last through the move, just in case there are any delays

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Finish Packing Items You Don't Need Daily

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Review Details for Move Day

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Collect everything from contracts to checklists
• Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Prepare Overnight Bags for the Family

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Round up everything valuable or sentimental
• Keep these items in a secure bag or folder that will travel with you-not with the movers

Last-Minute Purge

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Dispose of, give away, or repurpose things you don’t need
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Prepare Cash for Moving Day

• Keep cash on hand for anything you might need quickly

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Confirm all bins are empty and clean

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• Ask a friend or family member to be at your new home to accept deliveries or let in utility technicians if you can't be there yourself
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Safely Empty and Clean Out the Refrigerator

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

• Sanitize the inside to remove soap and residue
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Stabilize the drum according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list

• Ensure every container is tagged for correct placement
• Observe the move-out process to prevent mistakes

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Inspect every nook and cranny for stray items
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Organize keys and remotes for a smooth handover
• Leave a note or instructions if needed (for mail, trash day, or anything special about the house)

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Mark rooms or label doors to speed up the process
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• Report any issues right away for proper claims
• Take photos of any damaged items for your records

• Confirm basic utilities are active and connected
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Consider changing the locks or getting new keys made for extra peace of mind
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Unpack Essentials First

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Make the beds so everyone can rest easily

• If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Break down boxes and gather packing paper and bubble wrap
• See if your moving company can take the waste, or check for local recycling drop-offs

• Update your address on your driver's license, car registration, and voter registration
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Fill out the paperwork so your furry friends are legal at your new address

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Collect everything related to your move for easy reference
• Hold onto these for your records or in case you can claim moving expenses on your taxes

• Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Update your address with online shopping sites and any subscriptions

• Research and save phone numbers you might need urgently
• Save these contacts in your phone and keep a printed copy handy in your new home

Need Help With Your Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority, Lambert Moving Systems is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Dependability – Trusted by families and businesses alike since 1925
• Experience – Every move is managed by skilled and careful staff
• Best Value – Our goal is to keep your moving costs as low as possible

Take the worry out of moving day – count on the professionals at Lambert Moving Systems to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Moving Quote or call 888-480-9120 to get started!