Moving Checklist

Moving can be a daunting experience; however, with a good plan, it might turn out to be very smooth. AT Moves understand the need for a well-organized move, and we have put together for you an all-inclusive moving checklist to move you seamlessly from your current home. Be it moving across town or cross country, these tips, if adhered to, will ensure a stress-free relocation.

Before the Move:

Create a Moving Timeline:

• Determine a moving date and create a timeline of activities leading to the eve of the move.
• Research and hire a reputable moving company well in advance.
• Let your landlords or real estate agents know your move-out date.

De-clutter Your Home:

• De-clutter your stuff and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away.
• Hold a garage sale or donate items to charity.

Read our tips on decluttering before a move-in: Decluttering Before Moving.

Get Packing Supplies:

• Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and packing tape are your best friends.
• Order specialty boxes for things like dishes or electronics.

Find out where to get quality packing supplies: our article: Moving Boxes in Washington DC or check our prices on packing page.

Notify Important Parties:

• Update your address with the post office, banks, employers, and subscription services.
• Transfer or shut off utilities, internet, and other services at your current address.

Know all legal aspects in your new state in our article, Legal Things to Do When Moving to a New State.

Parking Reservations:

• Secure necessary permits to park a moving truck in your current and new home.

Explore our article to learn how to get a parking permit in DC.

During the Move:

Pack Room by Room:

• The sooner you start packing, the better the result. Start room by room, packing non-essential items early, such as the rooms you don’t utilize very often.
• Label each box with its contents and the name of the rooms where they would finally be placed.

Protect Fragile Items:

• Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper, and then pack them in boxes. Big items should be surrounded by furniture pads or blankets to protect them from damage during the move.

Prepare Appliances and Furniture:

• Disconnect and clean all appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, stoves, etc.
• Disassemble large furniture items. Artistically, group and label all hardware with the assembly instructions. Do Movers Disassemble Furniture? Find out in our article regarding this topic.

Make an arrangement for your first night box:

• Pack all essentials needed for the first couple of nights in an easy-to-reach box.
• Highly significant: Accessible documents, valuables, medications.

At Your New Home:

• Walk through your new home to inspect any damage or issues in the space. Ensure to take meter readings and photograph any discrepancy with the utilities.

Unpack Thoughtfully:

• Unpack room by room starting with all the essentials like kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
• Now you can unpack your furniture and your appliances, placing them in your floor plan.

Change of Address and Services:

• Update your address with the government, relevant financial institutions and the health service providers.
• Make sure that utilities and internet, among other services, are set up or moved to your new address.
• (Not sure whether to tip your Washington, D.C. based moving company? Our article, How Much to Tip Movers in DC, answers that question.)

Get to Know Your New Neighborhood:

• Walk around in your new neighborhood and find out what amenities are located close to your new home.
• Say Hi to your neighbors and try to get involved in community groups or events.

Burst Your Move:

• Give it some time with your friends or family for the celebration of starting your new life.
• Take a break from all the strains and have dinner in a local restaurant or visit attractions in your new city.

Now, with the help of a professional moving checklist, you shall not do more than get to your new place in a very soothing manner. And, of course, do not forget that AT Movers is here for you at any point. Happy moving!