Moving Checklist: What to Pack and When

Published: August 15, 2024

Moving to a new home can be a whirlwind of activity, and staying organized is key to a smooth transition. Having a detailed moving checklist can make the process less stressful and more manageable. Here’s a guide on what to pack and when to help you keep everything on track.

1. Start Early: Two Months Before Moving

The earlier you start packing, the less stressful the process will be. About two months before your move, begin by sorting through your belongings. Decide what to keep, donate, or discard. This is a great time to declutter your space and lighten your load.

• Declutter: Go through each room and sort items into keep, donate, or discard piles. 
• Create a Packing Plan: Develop a timeline for packing each room. Break down the process into manageable chunks.
• Gather Supplies: Collect moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers prior to starting the packing process. 

2. Focus on Non-Essentials: One Month Before Moving

As moving day approaches, start packing up items you don’t use every day. This will help you stay organized and prevent last-minute chaos.

• Pack Seasonal Items: Begin with clothing and accessories that are out of season. These items can be packed away early.
• Box Up Decorations: Pack up art, photographs, and other decorative items that you don’t need for daily life. 
• Handle Books and Media: Pack up books, DVDs, and other media now. They are heavy, so pack them in small boxes.

3. Pack Essentials: Two Weeks Before Moving

With just two weeks to go, it’s time to focus on packing the items you use regularly but can live without for a short period.

• Kitchen Items: Pack up non-essential kitchen gadgets, cookware, and utensils. Leave out only the items you need.
• Bathroom Supplies: Begin packing up extra toiletries and linens. Keep out only what you need for the final days.
• Prepare an Essentials Box: Create a box with all the essentials you’ll need on the first night in your new home, including toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.

4. Final Packing: One Week Before Moving

As moving day draws near, it’s time to focus on the remaining items and ensure everything is ready for the big day.

• Finish Packing: Pack up the remaining items in your home, including any furniture and personal belongings. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier.
• Clean as You Go: Clean the rooms you’ve already packed up. This will make the final cleanup on moving day easier.
• Check Your Inventory: Review your inventory list to ensure that nothing has been forgotten. 

5. Moving Day: What to Do

On the day of the move,  it’s essential to handle the last-minute details to ensure everything goes according to plan.

• Do a Final Walkthrough: Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to check for any items that might have been left behind. This is also a good time to ensure that all utilities are turned off and that the house is clean.
• Set up Your New Home: Once you arrive at your new home, start by unpacking the essentials box. Set up your immediate living areas so that you have a comfortable place to relax after the move.

6. Unpacking and Settling in

Once you’re in your new home, it’s time to unpack and get settled.

• Prioritize Rooms: Begin by unpacking the most important rooms first, such as the kitchen and bedroom. This will help you get your daily routine back on track as quickly as possible.
• Organize as You Go: Organize your belongings as you unpack. This will maintain order and make finding things easier.
• Take Breaks: Moving can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Make sure to take breaks and stay hydrated.

With this moving checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth transition to your new home. Starting early, staying organized, and focusing on what needs to be packed and when will help reduce stress and ensure that your move is as efficient as possible. Happy moving!

For help moving, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas or call us at (785) 465-4727 for a free quote.