Ready To Move (Moving Preparation Guide)  

Ready to Move – Your Step-by-Step Moving Checklist

Moving can be stressful — but with the right preparation, you can make it smooth and worry-free. Use this checklist to organize your move before, during, and after.

Before You Move

• Plan your move date & budget — Decide on your moving date, and set a realistic budget accounting for transport, packing, and any extras (stairs, elevators, insurance, etc.).

• Declutter & inventory — Go through every room and list all items. Donate or discard what you don’t need. This reduces weight and cost.

• Secure a trustworthy mover or broker — Make sure you are working with a licensed broker (or carrier) registered with FMCSA. Confirm license number and documentation before booking.

• Request a written estimate / binding or non-binding quote — Get detailed estimate in writing with all services and expected charges clearly spelled out.

• Book early — Once you accept the estimate, book the date and sign the contract (bill of lading / order for service).

Packing & Preparation

• Use good packing materials — Boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, furniture blankets — pack carefully. Label all boxes by room and contents.

• Separate fragile and valuable items — Keep a separate list for high-value or fragile items, and declare them in your contract or inventory.

• Prepare appliances & electronics — Disconnect gas/water/electric as required; drain fluids; secure doors/drawers; pad corners.

• Clear walkways & parking access — Ensure trucks can park within a reasonable distance (ideally within 40 feet of entrance). Clear hallways, stairs, doorways — this speeds up loading/unloading and avoids damage.

Day of Move

• Be present during loading & unloading — Walk with the crew as they load/unload; check inventory list carefully.

• Keep important documents with you — Bill of lading, inventory sheet, ID, contact info. Don’t give full release until items are delivered and inspected.

• Do final walkthrough — Before movers leave, check all corners, closets, drawers — ensure nothing is left behind.

After Move

• Inspect items upon delivery — Compare with inventory; open boxes immediately to catch any damages.

• Report damages promptly — If you see damage or missing items, note it on delivery receipt and contact us.

• Retain all documents — Bill of lading, inventory, estimate — keep them until final payment and any claims are resolved.

Tip: The more organized and prepared you are, the smoother your move will be. A little ahead-of-time work goes a long way.