Moving Guide

8 Weeks Before Moving

  • Create a moving checklist for all moving tasks. Be sure to include in this checklist finding the right moving company and right storage company. Give us a call to go over why we are a right fit for your items!
  • Create an itemized list of all items that you are planning to store in your new self storage unit
  • Keep Track of furniture measurements. This will ensure that you have the right size of storage unit for your needs. Check out our storage calculator on our size guide page for more information on what our recommended size is!
  • Research moving companies if you plan on using one to move. Be sure to discuss costs, timing, and other necessary details with each company
  • Request time off from work. Plan a three day weekend and let your boss know you will be out of the office to give you ample time to move.
  • Create a binder or folder with all important documents like medical records, insurance information, your list of stored items, and your moving tasks.

6 Weeks Before Moving

  • Keep Researching moving companies. It can take time to find the right one.
  • Label and separate boxes that are going to your new home or to your storage unit
  • Take pictures of your valuables and what is going into your new storage unit to include with your checklist. This will help ensure that nothing is missed and can help if you need to file any insurance claims in the future.
  • If moving to a new community check out the local schools, recreation, and community programs.
  • Do small repairs to your current home. This can increase your odds of getting your security deposit back or selling your home.
  • Reserve your storage unit. Give us a call or fill out our contact us page and we will be in touch with you! We have experts on hand that can assist with finding you the perfect unit for your needs and answering any question you may have.

4 Weeks Before Moving

  • Decide on your moving company. Finalize the budget and give your selection a call to book. Be sure to keep these receipts and dates in your moving binder for future use.
  • Get moving coverage to cover any damages that happen during your move. With luck, everything will be just fine but moving coverage can help for any curve balls thrown your way.
  • Get packing supplies and make sure all of your items are organized and ready for packing.
  • Make your travel arrangements now. If you are moving states don’t leave your own travel arrangements to the last minute. If you are flying, book your flight now. If you are driving make sure your car has a tune up and is ready for travel.
  • Contact your utility companies to set up service at your new place. Setting up a service activation date for your new home will ensure you aren’t moving into a dark home or one without internet or cable.
  • Get a change of address form from your postal service. The postal service usually gives coupons and other fun add ons when completing the change of address. Be sure to provide your new address to your bank and insurance companies.
  • Make arrangements for your pets. Get your vet records and check out any pet ownership requirements at your new home especially if you are moving to a new community or state as each state has different laws on pets.

2 Weeks Before Moving

  • Complete your change of address by letting family and friends know your new address. Also double check to make sure all important institutions like your job or bank have your new address. Also update or cancel memberships and prescriptions to ensure that they are going to your new home.
  • Complete packing. Get everything into the labeled boxes and check them off your list to ensure they are fully packed and ready
  • Update your driver’s license and car registration with your new address. If you are moving states be sure to check out the process for the state you are moving to.
  • Plan a moving party! If you are not using a moving company, invite some friends over to help you move.
  • Arrange for a babysitter or transportation for any children to ensure they remain safe during the move.
  • Do a run through of your basement or attic to ensure nothing is missed. Clear out any safety deposit boxes.
  • Back up your computer files! You don’t want to lose anything if something happens during your move.
  • Dispose of any flammable materials that can’t be transported or go into your new storage unit.

1 Week Before Moving

  • Get in contact with your moving company to ensure they have all of the information they need like your new address, phone number, your current address, and the address of your self storage facility. Also ensure they know what is going to your new home or to your storage unit.
  • Empty and defrost your refrigerator the day before your move.
  • Pack an essentials box with everything that you need for your first day in your new home. This will be the box first to be brought in and should include snacks, disposable plates and cups, some water or preferred drinks, your wifi router, bathroom items, and trash bags.
  • Clean your empty rooms. Getting cleaning out of the way before moving day will save time and help keep you organized the day of moving.
  • Collect your keys and garage door openers and put them in a safe place.
  • Take pictures or video of your empty home. It will help prove you left your home in a good condition for your security deposit.
  • Create an unpacking checklist to put in your moving binder. Having an unpacking plan helps keep you organized after your move and ensures you aren’t looking for something important.

Moving Day and After

  • Clear a path for your movers or friends that are helping you move. Make sure there is a clear path to furniture that needs to go into trucks first so you aren’t moving boxes out of the way or having anyone trip.
  • Sign the movers’ inventory list. Be sure to ask the movers for a copy of their official inventory to ensure nothing goes missing during transit.
  • Conduct a final walk through. Check closets and cabinets to make sure nothing is missed. Have a box handy for anything left over.
  • Tip your movers and confirm when they will arrive at your new place so you can ensure that someone will be there to help direct them when unloading.
  • Go over your checklist and take inventory again to ensure that everything made it to its right place and nothing is broken or damaged.
  • Ensure all utilities are connected and working.
  • Go Grocery shopping. Pick up some familiar food and make sure your pantries are well stocked.
  • Change your locks. Getting your locks changed can help with peace of mind and safety.
  • Get to know your HOA if you have one. Make sure you are aware of all policies.
  • Plan your housewarming party! Set the date and extend your invitations.
  • Leave a review with your moving company or send thank you notes to everyone who helped.