Published: August 01, 2023

Preparing for the Big Move: Your Week-Long Countdown

Moving to a new home can be an exciting and somewhat overwhelming experience. From packing up your belongings to coordinating logistics, there’s a lot to handle. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s essential to plan ahead and make the most of your time. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the week leading up to your move, providing a helpful checklist to keep you organized and stress-free.

Day 1: Create a Moving Schedule and Budget 

The first step is to create a moving schedule outlining the tasks you need to accomplish each day. Start by setting a budget to keep your expenses in check. Research moving or portable storage companies if you plan to hire professionals, and obtain quotes to compare prices. Make note of any special requirements or services you may need.

Day 2: Start Sorting and Decluttering 

Moving presents an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Go through each room, sorting items into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Organize a garage sale or list items online to sell, and donate the rest to a local charity. Remember, the fewer items you move, the easier and cheaper the process will be.

Day 3: Gather Packing Supplies 

Collect an ample supply of packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper in order to make the packing process go much smoother. You can purchase these from a moving supply store or ask local businesses for spare boxes. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, which will help greatly when unpacking later.

Day 4: Pack Non-Essential Items 

Begin packing items that you won’t need in the next few days. These may include books, off-season clothes, decorative pieces, and seldom-used kitchen appliances. Remember to pack heavier items at the bottom of the boxes and fragile items with care. Keep a separate box labeled “essentials” for items you’ll need immediately upon arrival.

Day 5: Notify Important Parties 

Inform relevant parties of your upcoming move. Notify your landlord, real estate agent, utility companies, and the post office about your change of address and moving date. Cancel or transfer any subscriptions or services tied to your current residence, such as newspaper deliveries or gym memberships.

Day 6: Take Care of Administrative Tasks 

Take care of administrative tasks such as updating your address with banks, insurance companies, and government institutions. Notify your employer and update your address for payroll and tax purposes. Contact your healthcare providers and arrange for your medical records to be transferred to a new facility if necessary.

Day 7: Prepare for Moving Day 

The final day before the move should be focused on final preparations. Confirm all arrangements with the moving or portable storage company or any friends/family assisting you. Defrost and clean your refrigerator, ensure your appliances are disconnected, and double-check that everything is packed and labeled properly. Pack a bag with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, and any important documents you may need during the move.

By following this week-long moving countdown, you’ll be well-prepared for your upcoming move. Remember to stay organized, declutter, and notify all relevant parties. Taking these steps will help minimize stress and ensure a smoother transition to your new home. For more information or to rent a portable storage container to help you move, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Houston or call (832) 924-7578. Good luck with your move, and enjoy the exciting journey ahead!