Make moving day easier on your future self.

Four to six weeks before: define the job

Use this as a flexible starting point and adjust to your actual closing and possession dates. Walk through every room, including the garage, basement, and outdoor storage, before requesting estimates.

• Identify what is moving, being donated, sold, or staying under the sale agreement.
• Ask for written estimates that cover the same inventory and services.
• Discuss packing, stairs, elevators, long carries, large items, and storage needs.
• Confirm pickup and delivery windows, deposits, cancellation terms, and what happens if dates change.
• For an interstate move, use FMCSA’s Protect Your Move resources to research movers and understand the process.

Questions to ask before booking

A useful estimate explains the details behind the number. Ask the company to clarify anything you do not understand before signing.

• Who will actually transport my belongings, and are you acting as a mover or a broker?
• What could change the price, and how will changes be documented?
• What protection options, exclusions, and claims procedures apply to my belongings?
• What items will you not transport or pack?
• How are delivery delays and storage handled?
• Who is my contact before the move and on moving day?

One to two weeks before: clear the path

Match your logistics to confirmed access and possession arrangements. A scheduled closing is not a promise that keys will be available at a particular hour.

• Confirm building rules, elevator reservations, truck parking, and required paperwork at both homes.
• Arrange utilities and internet around the agreed handoff dates.
• Plan for pets, children, and anyone who would benefit from a quieter place during loading.
• Label boxes by destination room and mark the ones to open first.
• Measure doorways and the furniture you are keeping; sketch where large pieces should go.
• Keep a backup plan for an overnight stay and temporary storage.

Pack a first-night kit that stays with you

Keep it out of the loading area so it cannot disappear into the truck. A clearly marked suitcase is easier to find than one more cardboard box.

• Daily medications, glasses, mobility essentials, and personal care items.
• Keys, identification, important documents, chargers, and contact numbers.
• Bedding, towels, a change of clothes, toilet paper, and soap.
• Water, snacks, pet supplies, and a few basic dishes.
• A flashlight, basic tools, and cleaning supplies allowed by your transport arrangements.

Moving day: one walkthrough at each end

Designate one person to answer the crew’s questions. Review the agreed inventory and paperwork, keep copies, and photograph important items before loading.

• Point out fragile pieces and items that must stay.
• Check closets, cabinets, attic access, garage, and outdoor areas before leaving.
• Handle keys, remotes, and property handoff according to the closing arrangements.
• At delivery, check items and record concerns promptly using the mover’s process.
• Set up the bed, bathroom, and a clear walking path before tackling decorative boxes.

The first week: make the home work

Unpack the routines you use most: sleeping, bathing, eating, and getting out the door. Give yourself permission to leave the guest room for later.

• Update your address with mail, banks, insurers, subscriptions, and other relevant accounts.
• Confirm appointments, prescriptions, and local services you rely on.
• Locate shutoffs and review home systems and access with the appropriate professional.
• Save moving receipts and closing documents in one secure place.
• Review what still needs attention with your mover, agent, or building manager.

Moving help to explore

Trend Moving & Storage and J. Bresnahan Co. offer moving and packing services, with storage options. Ask each company about your route, dates, inventory, and current availability. You are free to compare providers and choose the fit for your move.