Published: February 15, 2025

Essential Moving Do’s and Don’ts

Moving to a new home is both exciting and overwhelming. Whether it’s your first move or your tenth, having a clear plan can save you time, money, and stress. To make your moving experience as seamless as possible, here’s a comprehensive list of moving do’s and don’ts.

Moving Do’s

1. Create a Moving Checklist: A well-organized checklist is your best friend during a move. Break down tasks week by week, starting at least a month in advance. Include items like scheduling moving services, packing, and notifying utilities of your change of address.
2. Declutter Before You Pack: Before you pack a single box, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or toss. Decluttering reduces the volume of items you need to pack, saving time and money. A good declutter ensures a smoother move.
3. Label Your Boxes Clearly: Write the contents and the destination room on each box. Use color-coded labels for quick identification, making unpacking in your new home much easier. This simple step will save you time and unnecessary frustration when settling in.
4. Pack an Essentials Box: Pack a box with essential items that you’ll need immediately after arriving at your new home. Include toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, and important documents. Having essentials ready helps you settle in quickly. 
5. Use Portable Storage: Portable storage containers from UNITS® of Southeast Michigan are a convenient and flexible solution for your move. With these weather-resistant containers, you can pack at your own pace, and when you’re ready, UNITS® will deliver your container to your new home or store it securely until you need it. Portable storage offers flexibility and peace of mind during your move.
6. Take Photos of Electronics: Before unplugging wires and cables, snap a photo of how everything is connected. This will save you time and frustration when setting up your electronics in your new home. Photos of your electronics setup ensure a stress-free reassembly.
7. Notify Important Parties of Your Move: Update your address with the post office, banks, subscription services, and other essential organizations. Schedule utilities to be transferred or activated in advance. Notifying parties early keeps everything running smoothly.

Moving Don’ts

1. Don’t Procrastinate Packing: Packing always takes longer than expected. Start with non-essential items weeks ahead of your move and leave the essentials for last. Avoid the stress of last-minute packing. Planning ahead helps prevent unnecessary rush and stress.
2. Don’t Overfill Boxes: While it might seem efficient to cram everything into fewer boxes, overfilled boxes are heavy and prone to breaking. Stick to a manageable weight to prevent injuries and damaged belongings. Packing lighter keeps everything manageable.
3. Don’t Forget to Measure: Measure doorways, staircases, and elevators in both your current and new home. Ensure your furniture and large items can fit through tight spaces to avoid surprises on moving day. Proper measurements save you from last-minute adjustments.
4. Don’t Ignore Labeling Boxes: Failing to label boxes can make unpacking a nightmare and slow down your move. Label each box with its contents and room to stay organized and make settling in easier. Labeling helps you stay organized and speeds up the process.
5. Don’t Neglect Your Valuables: Keep valuable items, such as jewelry, passports, and sensitive documents, with you during the move. Transport these items in a secure, personal bag rather than packing them with the rest of your belongings to ensure that they stay safe.
6. Don’t Forget to Set up Utilities: Moving into a new home without electricity, water, or internet can be a hassle. Schedule utility transfers or new service installations ahead of time to ensure everything is ready when you arrive. Setting up utilities early prevents disruptions.
7. Don’t Forget to Update Your Insurance: Check your current home insurance policy and ensure it covers your belongings during the move. If not, consider purchasing additional moving insurance for peace of mind. Make sure your items are protected during transit.

By following these moving do’s and don’ts, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your move is as stress-free as possible. Preparation and organization are key to making this transition smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, a little planning goes a long way. Start implementing these tips today, and enjoy settling into your new home without the unnecessary hassle. 

To rent a portable storage container for your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Southeast Michigan or call (734) 821-4854.