The Ultimate Pre-Move Checklist -

Residential Moving

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December 28, 2025
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7 Steps to a Smooth & Stress-Free Moving Day!

Moving can feel overwhelming, but with a little preparation, you can transform chaos into a calm, organized transition. At Dedicated Moving, we believe a successful move starts long before our truck arrives. That’s why we’ve put together this essential pre-move checklist to help you get ready and ensure a seamless moving day!

Why Prepare? Save Time, Money & Stress!

A well-prepared home or office means:

Faster Loading & Unloading: Less time equals lower labor costs!
Reduced Risk of Damage: Items are packed securely and ready for transport.
Clear Communication: Everyone knows what to expect.

Let’s dive into your pre-move action plan!

Step 1: Declutter, Donate, & Dispose (The Golden Rule of Moving!)

This is arguably the most important step! Don’t pay to move things you no longer need or use.

Go Room by Room: Tackle one area at a time.
Be Ruthless: Ask yourself: “Have I used this in the last year? Do I truly need it?”
Sort into Piles: Create categories like “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.”
Consider a Junk Removal Service: For large, unwanted items, a professional junk removal company can save you a trip to the dump.

Step 2: Acquire Quality Packing Supplies

Investing in the right supplies protects your belongings.

Sturdy Boxes: Get varying sizes. Use smaller boxes for heavy items (books, files) and larger ones for lighter items (linens, pillows).
Packing Tape: Lots of it! Invest in a dispenser.
Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper: Essential for fragile items.
Markers: For clear labeling!

Step 3: Pack Smart, Label Clearly

Proper packing saves time and prevents damage.

Start Early: Begin packing non-essentials weeks before your move.
Don’t Overpack Boxes: Especially with books or files, keep box weight manageable for lifting.
Label Every Box: Include the room it belongs in and a brief list of contents. This makes unpacking a breeze! E.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans,” “Office – Files A-M.”
“Essentials” Box: Pack a separate box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, medications, important documents, a change of clothes, phone chargers).

Step 4: Disassemble What You Can (or Ask Us To!)

Some items are safer and easier to move when disassembled.

Furniture: Beds, large desks, and dining tables often need to be taken apart.
Electronics: Disconnect all wires, bundle them, and label them clearly. Take photos of complex setups for easy reassembly.
Appliances: Ensure washing machines are drained and fridges are defrosted and cleaned.
Special Note: Let us know in advance if you need help with major disassembly/reassembly! It helps us plan our time.

Step 5: Clear Pathways & Accessibility

Help our movers work efficiently and safely!

Clear Walkways: Ensure there’s a clear path from every room to the exit.
Remove Obstacles: Roll up rugs, move small furniture, and secure loose cords.
Designated “No-Move” Zone: If there are items you don’t want us to touch (e.g., personal bags, car keys), place them in a designated area (like a bathroom or closet) and clearly mark it.
Parking: If possible, ensure a clear parking spot for our truck close to your entrance.

Step 6: Manage Your Utilities & Address Change

Don’t get left in the dark! Ensure your services transition as smoothly as your furniture.

Utility Transfer: Schedule your electricity, water, gas, and internet to be disconnected the day after you move out and connected at the new location the day before you move in.
Mail Forwarding: Set up official mail forwarding with the USPS at least one week in advance.
Update Your Info: Don’t forget to update your address with your bank, insurance provider, and employer.

Step 7: Final Walkthrough & Communication

The last hour in your old space is the most important for ensuring nothing is left behind.

The “Empty Cabinet” Check: Open every drawer, cabinet, and closet one last time. Check the dishwasher, dryer, and attic!
Verify the Inventory: Before our team leaves, do a quick walkthrough with the crew lead to ensure everything discussed in the “Job as Discussed” section is on the truck.
Point Out Fragiles: Even if they are labeled, personally point out your highest-value or most sentimental items to the crew so they can prioritize their placement in the truck.

Ready for a Stress-Free Move?

Preparation is the key to a successful moving day. By following this 7-step checklist, you’re not just making our job easier—you’re ensuring your belongings arrive safely and your move stays on budget.

Need a binding estimate for your upcoming home or office move? Click here to get a quote from Dedicated Moving today!