The Importance of Planning Your Move

Moving is an adventure that can be a stressful experience, and proper planning can make all the difference. Having a clear schedule helps reduce stress, guarantees all details are handled, and helps you transition into your new home with ease. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, knowing how to prepare for a move will help keep everything organized and efficient.

How Much Time Should You Set Aside to Prepare for a Move?

Each move is different, but generally, preparing for a move should begin a minimum of eight weeks before your moving day to allow enough time to complete essential tasks without feeling rushed. The key to success is breaking the process into manageable steps, so nothing gets rushed right before moving day. Take a look at a moving timeline to help you plan for a move with ease.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Initial Planning

• Confirm Moving Services – Contact Shoreview Moving and Storage to schedule your move and secure your preferred moving date.
• Reduce and Organize – Go through everything you own and decide what to keep, give away, or list for sale.
• Start Exploring Your New Home – If moving to a new city, check out area amenities, schools, and services.
• Create a Moving Binder – Keep all important documents, receipts, and to-do lists in one place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Logistics & Organization

• Establish a Moving Budget – Factor in moving costs, packing supplies, and potential storage fees.
• Alert Necessary Contacts – Notify your employer, financial institutions, and subscription services.
• Collect Your Packing Materials – Get durable moving cartons, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling.
• Book Support Services – Set up care services for kids or pets if needed on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

• File a Change of Address – Alert the post office of your upcoming move.
• Begin Packing Non-Essentials – Pack rarely used items, such as seasonal clothing and decorations.
• Arrange for Utility Transfers – Schedule utility shut-off and start dates for electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
• Check Your Storage Arrangements – If you require short-term or long-term storage, contact Shoreview for your storage needs.
• Prepare Your Car for the Move – If driving to your new home, have your car serviced.

3 Weeks Before Moving Day: Final Preparations

• Plan Moving Day Travel – Reserve travel accommodations and hotels if needed for a long-distance move.
• Collect Critical Paperwork – Gather all vital documents.
• Prepare Any Special Items – Set up any special transportation needed for delicate belongings.
• Host a Garage Sale or Donate Items – Let go of extra items before your move.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Confirm Details

• Reach out to Shoreview Moving and Storage – Verify the final details with your movers.
• Label and Inventory Boxes – Mark boxes for easy identification.
• Set Aside a First-Night Box – Include toiletries, medications, important documents, and daily-use items.
• Get Appliances Ready – Defrost any extra freezers, disconnect major appliances if you can, and secure loose cords.
• Make Arrangements for Final Bills & Deposits – Pay off last bills in advance.

1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Tasks

• Reconfirm Move Day Arrangements – Review final plans with Shoreview Moving and Storage and prepare an itinerary.
• Take Furniture Apart – If possible, take apart beds, desks, and large furniture.
• Safeguard Your Most Important Items – Carry valuables yourself.
• Clean Your Home – Arrange for a deep clean of your current home if needed.

2 Days Before Moving Day: Last-Minute Details

• Empty & Defrost Freezer and Fridge – Let appliances air out.
• Pack Suitcases with Essentials – Pack what you’ll need right away.
• Set Aside Items Not to Be Loaded – Do not load essential items like medications, valuables, or important documents into the truck.
• Give Clear Delivery Instructions – If needed, explain the layout or access info for the new home.

Moving Day: The Big Day is Here!

• Be Available for Movers – Be there to help with any questions and supervise loading.
• Complete a Final Walkthrough – Inspect all areas to confirm nothing is forgotten.
• Confirm Your New Home’s Address – Share your new address and important notes with movers.
• Record Utility Readings – Write down all meter readings prior to move-out.
• Have Essential Belongings Accessible – Bring must-haves with you for easy access.

Why a Moving Timeline Matters

Using a clear moving timeline helps prevent last-minute scrambling, helps you stay on track, and makes your move go smoothly. The more ready you are, the better your moving day will go. Using a checklist helps to reduce confusion and allows you to focus on the excitement of a fresh start.

Want Expert Help with Planning Your Move? Contact Shoreview Moving and Storage!

If you’re trying to figure out how long it takes to prepare for a move or want help at any stage, Shoreview Moving and Storage is here to help. Our skilled team make your move hassle-free so you can focus on what matters most. Call us today at 888-487-1920 or submit your details online for a no-cost consultation and moving schedule support!