How to Plan for Moving
Planning for a relocation can be incredibly stressful, with countless aspects to consider as you handle these preparations. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process ahead, you’re not alone in this feeling.
However, with the right steps to follow, you can tackle the process with minimal stress. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you through the moving process, allowing you to streamline your move and handle the task like a pro. Interested in learning how? Keep reading for our complete guide to plan your move!
Your Guide to Plan a Streamlined Move
Not sure how to proceed with your moving plans? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a complete guide. Discover our 15-step guide below!
- Make a Calendar and To-Do List
First things first: start moving prep by creating a detailed calendar and to-do list to follow throughout the process. In particular, the calendar will help you visualize the timeline and ensure that you stay on track, preventing you from missing any important deadlines. These items should outline all the tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the move, ideally in as much detail as possible. Break down these tasks by week, giving yourself ample time to accomplish each relocation task without feeling rushed.
- Create a Budget
Moving can be an expensive endeavor, so creating a thorough budget is a non-negotiable step as you plan your upcoming move. Be as thorough and detailed as possible, factoring in costs such as hiring movers, renting a truck, purchasing packing supplies, and any potential storage fees. Don’t forget to include expenses for travel, temporary housing, and meals during the move. The more you aim to cover every cost, the more accurate your budget will be, allowing you to anticipate the amount of money you should budget for each category. Additionally, try to set aside funds in case of any emergencies that may arise.
- Give Notice at Your Current Residence
If you are currently renting, notify your landlord of your move as soon as possible. Typically, the required notice period is 30 to 60 days, but be sure to check your lease agreement to confirm that you’re adhering to the required timeline. Giving timely notice ensures you won’t lose your security deposit, so handling this step as early as possible is ideal.
- Compare Moving Companies
Looking to utilize the assistance of a moving company for your upcoming relocation? Choosing the right movers is crucial to achieving the best results possible. To find your ideal moving company, start by researching your options and comparing moving companies well in advance. Your research should include looking for reviews and ratings, as well as inquiring about recommendations from friends or family. Once you’ve found a few options, request quotes from at least three different companies to compare services and prices. While you compare your options, consider factors like insurance coverage, experience, and customer service.
- Book Movers Early
Once you’ve chosen the moving company you want to proceed with, book them as early as possible. This is especially important if you are moving during peak season, which spans from May to September. Early booking guarantees availability for the dates you need and may even secure better rates if the company you choose has early booking discounts. Plus, squaring away this aspect of your relocation as early as possible alleviates stress and crosses another important task off of your to-do list.
- Declutter Your Space
For several reasons, moving presents the perfect opportunity to declutter your home. Not only does it save time by reducing the amount you need to pack, but it can also save money on moving expenses and provide you with a clean slate in your new home. Sort through each room and separate items into categories: keep, donate, sell, and throw away. From this point, you can then proceed accordingly, donating items to local charities or secondhand stores and selling items online or at a yard sale.
- Gather Packing Supplies
Before you start the packing process, gather all necessary packing supplies. You’ll need sturdy boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labeling. You might also want to consider specialty boxes for fragile items, electronics, and clothing, as these boxes are best suited for their exact purposes.
- Pack Your Home Methodically
Take a methodical approach to packing, starting with non-essential items first, such as off-season clothing and decorative pieces. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home. As you pack, place the heavier items at the bottom of the boxes and lighter items on top, as this will prevent items from being crushed and distribute the weight more evenly in the boxes. Take the time to wrap fragile items carefully using packing materials. Ideally, you should move through your house from room to room, instead of packing multiple rooms at once.
- Make Travel Arrangements
If your move involves long-distance travel, make the necessary arrangements in advance. Whether you’re flying or driving, it’s important to stay organized by booking flights or planning your driving route as soon as you can. Make hotel reservations if needed and plan for meals along the way. If you’re driving, ensure your vehicle is in good condition before the journey.
- Plan for Children and Pets
For those who are moving with children or pets, considering their needs is an incredibly important step in the process. As you prepare, be sure to arrange for childcare or pet care on moving day to keep them safe and occupied amidst the hustle and bustle of the movers. Pack a special bag for your children with their favorite toys, snacks, and essentials. For pets, prepare a travel kit with food, water, and comfort items.
- Notify Necessary Parties
As moving day nears, ensure you have notified all important parties of your move, including your employer, utility companies, service providers, banks, insurance companies, and any subscription services. You should also change your address with the post office to ensure your mail gets forwarded to your new home.
- Confirm All Bookings
A few days before the move, confirm all your bookings. Reconfirm your moving date and time with the moving company, check your travel reservations, and verify any other services you’ve arranged. Double-checking these details can prevent last-minute issues and ensure everything is in order.
- Pack an Essentials Bag
Ahead of moving day, prepare a bag with essentials you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, chargers, and any other items you might need in the first few days. You can even include basic kitchen items to hold you over until everything is unpacked. Having these essentials handy will make your first night in your new home more comfortable.
- Be Prepared for Moving Day
Moving day can be hectic even for the most organized moves, so it’s important to be prepared. Have a plan for where the movers should park and the best way to navigate your home. Keep important documents and valuables with you rather than packing them in the moving truck. Additionally, make sure you have the moving company’s contact information for any important communications.
- Do a Final Check
Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure you left nothing behind. Check all rooms, closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Make sure all windows and doors are locked and that utilities are turned off. If necessary, leave any keys and instructions for the new occupants.
Move to Your New Home Successfully
By following along with this checklist, you can ensure you experience the smoothest move possible. Looking for a moving company to simplify the process even further? Trust RLD Relocation & Logistics, the best Ohio movers. We have been delivering trusted moving, packing, and storage solutions to our customers for decades.
Request a free quote online and discover our highly-rated services at affordable rates! Give our Akron office a call at 234-334-7777 or our Canton office at 330-494-1321 to learn more about our local or long-distance moving services in Ohio!