Your Moving Master Guide!
When moving it’s important that you focus on the larger moving parts first and let the smaller tasks fall into place on their own. Focus on “Who will drive the vehicle(s) to my new home?”, “Do I have a baby/pet sitter?”, “How much time do I have to unload and get settled in my new place?”, etc… Smaller details like “Should I bring my old sponges or buy new ones?” will work themselves out.
Don’t spend time focusing on the things that don’t heavily impact your move.
Step 1: Planing Your Move
Create a detailed moving checklist and timeline to stay organized and on track leading up to the move; the rest will fall into line on the calendar. By creating an end date, you can work backwards and know how much time you have for the several milestones along the way that are listed below.
When do I absolutely need to be unpacked and ready? Set a goal that is achievable yet short enough to motivate you. If it helps, plan a social event like a house-warming party which will force you to move and unpack.
When is my closing/when do I need to be out?
Hire professional movers: If you have a large household or valuable items that require special handling, hiring professional movers can simplify the packing, loading, and transportation process. Movers can provide packing materials, handle heavy lifting, and ensure the safe arrival of all your belongings.
*Tip: Coordinate with family members or roommates to delegate tasks and responsibilities, such as un/packing specific rooms, baby/pet sitting, or helping get rid of donations. We highly suggest creating a support network of at least 3 individuals (including your trusted moving company) that you can rely on to help make the moving process easier.
*Tip: Keep important documents, such as moving contracts, leases, and financial records, organized and easily accessible throughout the entire moving process.
Step 2: Taking Care of the Vehicles
When planning how you’ll get your vehicles to your new home, remember you may need to take certain items with you in the car that can’t go on the moving truck . See “What can’t you move?” for more details.
*If you’re moving locally, go ahead and move on to Step 3: Decluttering and Donation.
Option 1: Drive the vehicle(s) yourself: If you have multiple drivers in your household that are comfortable with the endeavor, consider driving the vehicle(s) to your new home. This allows you more control of the timeline.
Option 2: Hire an auto transport service: If driving long distances isn't feasible or practical, consider hiring a professional auto transport service to move your vehicle(s) to the new state. This option is particularly convenient for individuals with multiple vehicles or specialty vehicles that require careful handling.
Option 3: Sell or donate the vehicle(s): If you're moving to an area with excellent public transportation or where owning a vehicle isn't necessary, you may consider selling or donating your vehicle(s) before the move to avoid transportation costs, add money to your budget, and simplify the moving process.
*Tip: If you’re traveling a long way to your new home remember to schedule time to take your car to a trusted mechanic to ensure your vehicle can make the distance. Doing this as soon as possible will give you time to remedy any issues you may need to resolve with your vehicle before the trip. Before you leave also check that your spare tire is full of air and that you have some simple items like a tire patch kit, spare cleaning products for the long drive, and a good music mix to keep you going!
Maintenance Check
The last thing you want is to break down on a long road trip cross-country to your new home! Making sure your vehicle(s) can handle the long trek is vital to a successful move. Take your vehicle into a professional if possible, if not here’s the full list of items you should check over!
Ensure your car is up-to-date on routine maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), tire rotations, and filter replacements (air filter, fuel filter).
Check the condition of the tires, including tread depth and tire pressure. Replace any worn or damaged tires and ensure they are properly inflated according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Inspect the brake pads and discs for wear and replace them if necessary.
Check brake fluid levels and ensure there are no leaks in the brake system.
Inspect the radiator and hoses for any signs of leaks or damage. Replace worn or damaged hoses.
Check coolant levels and top up if needed. Ensure the coolant mixture is appropriate for the anticipated weather conditions during your trip.
Inspect the serpentine belt and timing belt for wear and replace if necessary.
Check all other hoses (such as those for the power steering and air conditioning systems) for signs of wear, leaks, or damage.
Check and top up all fluid levels, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Test the battery and inspect the terminals for corrosion. Replace the battery if it's weak or nearing the end of its lifespan.
Check all lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals) to ensure they are functioning properly.
*Tip: Make sure your spare tire is full of air and that you have all the necessary items for a tire change, a tire patch kit and an extra gallon of gas is a great plus.
Step 3: Decluttering and Donation
Before packing, take the opportunity to declutter and downsize your belongings. Decluttering will allow your new home to feel fresh and could potentially lower your moving costs! While this may be tough, it’s a necessary part of the moving process and there’s no reason to push this part off.
Separate items into categories such as keep, donate, sell, or discard.
Donate gently used clothing, furniture, household items, and other belongings to local charities, thrift stores, or shelters.
Host a garage sale or sell items online to generate extra cash and lighten your load before the move.
Properly dispose of any items that are damaged, expired, or no longer usable.
*Tip: If you haven’t used it or thought about it in over a year, it’s probable you don’t need it anymore!
Step 4: Change of Address
Cities will often have helpful information of their websites on which local providers service your utilities and what steps are necessary for an easy change of address in your new area.
Update your address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) by filing a Change of Address form either online or at the post office.
Notify important emergency contacts of your address change
Utilities and Services
Utility companies (electricity, water, gas, internet, cable, phone)
Subscription services (magazines, newspapers, streaming services, stores with mailer rewards such as REI, Kolhs, etc…)
Arrange for utility services to be transferred or disconnected at your current residence and set up at your new residence.
Research and select new utility providers in the new state.
Schedule installation or activation of utilities at the new residence before moving in.
Healthcare and Insurance
Insurance providers (health, auto, homeowners/renters)
Forward medical prescriptions to a pharmacy in the new state.
Inform your healthcare providers of your move and obtain copies of medical records.
Research and select new healthcare providers in the new state.
Update your health insurance information with your provider and ensure coverage in the new state.
Driver's License and Vehicle Registration
Obtain a driver's license or state identification card in the new state within the required timeframe.
Register your vehicle(s) in the new state and obtain new license plates if necessary.
Update auto insurance with the new address and any state-specific requirements.
Financial Matters
Employer or HR department
Banks and financial institutions
Transfer or close unwanted memberships and subscriptions (gym, country clubs, etc.).
Update your address with your financial institutions and credit card companies.
Transfer bank accounts to a branch in the new state or open new accounts as needed.
Notify investment or retirement account providers of your address change.
Legal and Administrative Tasks
Government agencies (IRS, Social Security Administration, DMV, Sheriff’s office for CC License)
Update legal documents such as wills, trusts, and power of attorney to reflect your new address.
Notify relevant government agencies of your move, such as the IRS for tax purposes.
Obtain necessary permits or licenses for the new state if applicable.
Step 5: Packing and Moving
*Tip: Make sure to set aside important documents, medications, snacks, and personal items for your day-of-move box so they don’t get lost in your other boxes!
Option 1: Have U-Point Moving Pack You!
We’ll come in for a consultation and take care of the rest
Option 2: Pack Yourself
Obtain packing supplies and start packing well in advance of the move.
Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room to facilitate unpacking.
Keep Boxes Under 30lbs where possible
Wrap Fragiles in Towels/Sheets/Clothes
Use Newspaper to Wrap Dishes
Keep Clothes on Hangers in Wardrobe Box/Trash Bags
Remove Everything from Dresser Drawers
Unplug all Electronics/Remove Light Bulbs
Dissemble Large Furniture
Remove Feet from Furniture
Place Hardware in Labeled Ziplock Bags
Place all Hardware/Remotes/Cords/Feet into One “Parts Box”
Label Boxes on Top & 1 Side. Color coordinate if thats your style by using colored box tape or colored stickers.
Final Preparations
Confirm arrangements with U-Point Moving and vehicle transportation providers 1 week in advance of your move date.
Pack a moving day essentials kit with important documents, medications, snacks, and personal items
Place Immediate Toilettres, Clothes, Medications, First Aide, Electronics & Chargers in Suit Cases
Call 1 Week Ahead if You Need to Add/Remove Anything
Pack an emergency kit that includes items such as a flashlight, jumper cables, tire pressure gauge, basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, wrenches), duct tape, a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a mobile phone charger.
Place vehicle documents in vehicles (driver's license, registration, insurance card, and any roadside assistance information)
Plan your route in advance and ensure you have reliable navigation tools, whether it's a GPS device, smartphone navigation app, or printed maps.
Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and that you have a way to stay connected in case of emergencies.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear for the journey, and consider bringing pillows or cushions for added comfort during long stretches of driving.
Move Day Tasks
Ensure Every Room, Closet & Drawer is Completely Empty
Place all Resources, Paperwork, Keys & Garage Clickers for New Owners on Kitchen Counter
Load Vehicles with Suit Cases, Perishable Foods, Plants, Detergents/Chemicals, Parts Box & Flammables
Lock all Doors & Windows
Ensure all Lights, Appliances & Burners are Shut Off or unplugged Before Leaving
Step 6: Unpacking
What items need to be unpacked first? Consider the season and weather of where you are moving to, you may want to unpack those winter coats or the outdoor toys first.
When hanging clothes, place hangers backwards. When you use an item and hang it back up, place the hanger facing the proper direction. As you go through your clothes normally you will see what you do and dont wear. Over a year you should have worn everything. Everything that is still facing the wrong way should get donated!
While it may seem daunting, moving can be accomplished easily by following these simple steps and giving yourself enough time to work through it all.