Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful time. There’s so much to do, from packing up all your belongings to changing your address and setting up utilities in your new place. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with everything you need to accomplish.

That’s why it’s important to properly prepare and get organized before you even begin packing boxes. Taking the time to plan ahead and complete certain tasks in advance will make your move go much more smoothly.

Here are 5 key things you should do to prep for a move before you start packing:

1. Create a Moving Calendar and Checklist

One of the most helpful things you can do when prepping for a move is to create a detailed calendar and checklist. This will allow you to visualize the entire process, track deadlines, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

Start by researching and penciling in important dates, such as when you need to provide notice to your landlord, schedule movers, and officially change your address. Next, work backwards from your moving date and add in timeframes for completing tasks like packing, arranging storage, and more.

Be sure to include the following on your calendar:

Moving date
Turning in notice to landlord
Scheduling movers
Arranging for storage unit (if needed)
Packing timeframe
Cleaning timeframe
Address change timeline
Utility setup/transfer dates
Cancelling/transferring services like internet or cable
Returning cable boxes/equipment

Then create a detailed checklist breaking down every step that needs to be accomplished. This can include:

Research movers and get quotes
Book movers
Order moving supplies
Arrange change of address with post office
Notify important services and accounts
Begin packing non-essentials
Clean out closets and donate items
Organize paperwork and important documents
Transfer medical records and prescriptions
Schedule transfer of utilities
Cancel/forward mail
Pack room-by-room
Update driver’s license and registration
And much more!

Having a master calendar and checklist will give you an invaluable roadmap as you navigate this major transition. You’ll be able to see what needs to happen when, and can delegate tasks to family or friends to share the workload.

Pro Tip: Create your moving calendar and checklist at least 2-3 months in advance. This will give you plenty of time to accomplish everything, deal with any hiccups, and avoid last-minute stress!

2. Obtain Moving Supplies and Equipment

Another key step is to make sure you have all the necessary supplies before packing begins. Having the right equipment not only makes the process faster and easier – it also ensures your belongings are properly protected during the move.

Here are some essentials to have on hand:

Boxes

Sturdy cardboard boxes in a variety of sizes
Specialty boxes for mattresses, mirrors, art, etc.
Properly sized wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
Dishpack boxes for safe transport of kitchen items
File/document boxes for organizing paperwork

Packing Materials

Bubble wrap – for fragile items
Packing paper – wrap fragile items first before packing in boxes
Packing peanuts – use for fragile items or filling empty space in boxes
Foam sheets and pads – lay flat items between foam for protection
Furniture pads – protect furniture corners and edges
Box sealing tape – avoid cheap masking tape which can fail

Equipment

Hand truck (dolly) – safely move heavy objects like furniture or appliances
Furniture sliders – slide furnishings instead of lifting to avoid damage to floors or items
Rope/tie downs – secure furniture and large items to trucks for transport
Labels/markers – label every box with room location for easy unpacking
Scissors/box cutter – safely open and break down boxes

Other Essentials

Paper plates, cups, towels, toilet paper – use disposables while packed up
Tool kit with hammer, screws, nails – for disassembling or reassembling furniture
Garbage bags – dispose of clutter, debris, packing materials after unpacking
Flashlight – in case power hasn’t been turned on at new place
First aid kit – be prepared for minor injuries
Snacks and water – keep your energy up!

Procure all your supplies 2-4 weeks prior to packing. This gives you time to order specialty items, shop sales, and gather everything in one place. Having all your equipment in advance makes packing seamless.

Pro Tip: If hiring professional movers, find out what supplies they will provide vs. what you need to have on hand yourself. Many movers provide their own padding, tape, dollies, etc.

3. Sort and Purge Household Items

Now is the time to purge! Go through each room and storage area in your home with the mindset of letting go of anything you don’t need or use. This not only eliminates clutter but ensures you only move essential, worthwhile items.

Aim to remove at least 30% of your household belongings before packing begins. Here are some tips:

Closets and Clothing

Try on clothes and only keep items that fit and you actually wear
Toss old worn out socks and undergarments
Donate gently used clothing and shoes you no longer need
Discard hangers that get bent or damaged (they take up space!)

Kitchen

Give away duplicate appliances and kitchen tools
Toss expired food items and old spices
Recycle worn-out pots and pans with scratched surfaces
Donate plates, cups, utensils you rarely use

Books/Movies/Music

Keep only your very favorites and must-haves
Donate to libraries, thrift stores, charities
Sell newer expensive items to recoup some money

Decor and Knick Knacks

Give away items with purely sentimental value
Toss old holiday decor you no longer use
Limit collections to your very favorites (seashells, pottery, etc)

Paperwork and Files

Shred old statements, forms, documents
Scan important records to digital copies, then recycle paper
Organize papers into labeled file folders – discard extras

Furniture

Sell quality furniture that’s in good condition
Donate older items that are usable but worn
Discard and recycle broken or damaged pieces

Take time to thoughtfully evaluate each item and only keep things you truly value and enjoy, or that have an essential purpose in your daily life. This sorting and purging process can take weeks, but it’s a crucial step.

Pro Tip: Hold a garage sale to make extra money from quality furniture, home goods, tools, outdoor equipment, etc. that you no longer want or need.

4. Research and Choose Movers

Hiring reputable, experienced movers is key for a stress-free move. Take time to thoroughly research options and read reviews. Get estimates from at least 3-4 moving companies before deciding.

Important factors to consider when choosing movers include:

Are they licensed and insured? Verify they have valid licenses and insurance to protect your belongings.
What is their experience? Choose a company that has been in business for 5+ years and has moved numerous households like yours.
Can they provide local references? Call 2-3 past customers listed as references to hear feedback.
Do they provide full service? End-to-end service including packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking.
What is their pricing? Get binding estimates in writing after an in-home inspection. Avoid vague hourly rates which can greatly exceed estimates.
What is their reputation? Read reviews on Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau and other sources. Look for consistent 5 star ratings.
Do they have trained staff? Established companies invest in background checks and training for their movers.
What size trucks do they have? Choose a company with a variety of truck sizes to handle any size move.
How is your inventory handled? Make sure they track and handle your belongings with care.
What if something breaks? Ask about their claims process and how damages are handled.

Securing movers early allows time to plan the best loading strategy, and gives them time to reserve trucks and staff. Try to book movers 4-8 weeks in advance of your moving dates.

Pro Tip: Beware of paying large deposits upfront to “hold” a moving date. Reputable companies typically only require small down payments.

5. Transfer Utilities and Update Accounts

To prevent any lapse in service, contact all your utility companies and update the account info for your new residence. This includes:

Electric
Gas
Water
Internet/cable
Phone (landline and/or cell)
Garbage
Sewer

Call each provider and find out their requirements for transferring or establishing services. Provide them with your move in date and new address.

Also remember to update your address anywhere you have an ongoing account or subscription, such as:

Banks and financial institutions
Insurance policies (auto, health, home, etc)
Memberships (gym, alumni organizations, etc)
Professional services (doctor, dentist, stylist, etc)
Online accounts (Amazon, Ebay, Netflix, etc)

Forgetting to transfer an account can lead to missed bills, disruption of important services like medications or insurance, and damage from things like burst pipes.

Pro Tip: Keep records of all address changes you make so that you have a master list if anything falls through the cracks or companies don’t update your new info.

In-Depth Guide: Essential Moving Preparation Tasks

Now that you know the 5 most important things to do before packing boxes, let’s explore each of these in more depth. Proper preparation is truly the key to a smooth, successful move!

Crafting Your Moving Checklists and Calendars

As mentioned above, creating master checklists and calendars for your move should be one of the very first things you do when starting to plan and prepare. But what’s the best way to construct these helpful organizational tools?

Here are some tips:

Format your calendar as a timeline. Use a format like a table or spreadsheet that allows you to easily see when tasks need to occur on a given date. Include columns for notes or checking off steps as completed. Seeing everything in timeline format helps identify overlaps or potential conflicts.

Group related tasks together. For instance, have sections for housing-related tasks, utility transfers, packing timeframes, cleaning prep, etc. This allows you to think through each major category in depth.

Note any dependencies. If a task can only happen after another task is finished, make note of that relationship. For example, you must do final cleaning after packing is done.

Build in buffer time. Avoid scheduling tasks for your latest or earliest possible dates. Leave a few days’ wiggle room for the unexpected.

Schedule your movers early. Block this on your calendar 2-3 months in advance if possible. Popular dates book up!

Review regularly and adjust. Refer back to your calendar and update it regularly as plans evolve. Scratch off tasks as they are completed.

Your detailed checklists should break down steps even further. For example, your overall “Pack Kitchen” checklist might look like:

Pack dishes/glasses
Box up pots, pans and bakeware
Empty out pantry items
Pack up appliances (label cords!)
Pack up kitchen linens
Box up food/spices (divide open items into plastic bags)
Take inventory of box contents as you go
Label boxes by room for easy unpacking

Breaking down key tasks will prevent important steps from being forgotten in the chaos of moving! Print checklists to keep handy and check off each item.

Pro Tip: Many people find it helpful to contract with professional organizers when planning a complex move. They can help create detailed schedules and lists tailored to your specific situation.

Securing Specialty Moving Equipment and Supplies

When preparing for packing, take time to make sure you secure any specialty equipment or supplies you need beyond the basics. This includes:

Item-specific boxes. Do you own artwork, oversized mirrors, lamps, electronics or other specialty items that require specially-sized boxes? Have them on hand early.

Wardrobe boxes. Invest in wardrobe boxes if moving a significant number of hanging clothes. They allow clothes to be transported safely while remaining on hangers.

Tool kit. Have screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and other tools to disassemble and reassemble furniture as needed. Label parts so they are easily reassembled.

Dollies. Consider renting or buying dollies or hand trucks to move heavy appliances, gun safes, pianos, etc. This avoids damage.

Padding. If you own nice furniture, purchase quality padding to protect wood, glass, marble, etc. Add this extra layer before shrink wrap.

Shrink wrap. Shrink wrap is ideal for protecting irregular shaped furnishings like upholstered furniture or mattresses from dirt, debris and weather.

Heavy duty tape. Invest in quality heavy duty box sealing tape. It sticks better and is less likely to fail than basic masking tape.

Bungee cords. Great for securing furniture pads, stabilizing appliances in trucks, andgeneral securing of cargo during transport.

Don’t wait until the last days before your move to obtain specialty supplies. Order online or visit moving stores 4+ weeks prior to packing to order any specialty items you need.

Pro Tip: Renting supplies can make sense for pricier specialty items you only use once. Just confirm rental availability well in advance of packing!

Maximizing Space with Strategic Packing

The way that you pack will directly impact how much fits into your moving truck. Use these professional packing strategies to maximize space:

Pack boxes tightly. Eliminate empty space in boxes by wrapping items securely with packing paper and filling extra gaps with bubble wrap, wadded paper or other packing material.

Utilize space-saving boxes. Breakable items can be stacked vertically using oversized vinyl moving pouches or dish packs. These are more space-efficient than basic boxes.

Fill truck strategically. Heavier items like furniture and appliances along the bottom and sides to stabilize stacked boxes. Fragile lightweight boxes in the center.

Utilize truck space vertically. Use dollies to load boxes and other items all the way to the ceiling of the truck, not just the floor. Maximize all space.

Load non-essentials last. Things you don’t use daily like holiday decorations, extra kitchen gadgets, memorabilia, etc. can go at the very back or even in another later truck load if needed. Prioritize items needed immediately in your new home.

Consider container shipping. If you’re moving overseas or across country, use containers that stack efficiently into shipping vessels versus large moving vans. Way more space efficient!

Limit bulk items. Avoid transporting large amounts of things like firewood, lawn decor, construction materials, etc. Only keep essentials or purchase upon arrival.

With mindful packing and strategic loading, you can often fit 30% more items into a truck than by randomly tossing things in. A bit of extra effort goes a long way!

Pro Tip: Be present when your truck is loaded to make sure your wishes are followed. You can always rearrange things if the mover’s loading strategy doesn’t seem space-optimal.

Purging Your Belongings Thoughtfully

Purging your home before packing is an essential step, but it should be done thoughtfully to avoid regrets. Follow these guidelines as you decide what stays and what goes when moving:

Keep sentimental items small. Limit sentimental items to what fits in a single box. For example, pick your 3-5 most cherished holiday decorations rather than an entire tub worth.

Photograph memories. Take photos of sentimental items you’re ready to pass on, like your kids’ height chart or beloved college poster. The memories remain without the physical item.

Store seldom used items. Seasonal decor and specialty cooking gadgets can be stored in attics or basements rather than discarded if you have the space. Revisit them in 6-12 months as needed.

Ask yourself: “Did I use this in the past year?” If not, strongly consider donating, selling or recycling that item.

Evaluate collections. Do you really love and use that plate collection, or is it stress to keep finding display and storage space? Pare down to just your very favorites.

Be choosy about furniture. Unless truly unique or antique, used furniture is often easier to replace than move. Donate it.

Sell quality items. Use Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or consignment stores to earn extra cash from quality furniture, artwork, equipment and electronics you no longer need.

Donate generously. Home goods, clothing, books, toys, games and more can bless local charities. Some even offer free pickup service.

Recycle old electronics. Many stores like Best Buy offer free recycling of phones, computers, televisions and small appliances. Discard obsolete tech responsibly.

Remember, cluttered belongings equal a cluttered mind. Use your move as an opportunity to thoughtfully focus on the items that matter most in this next life chapter.

Pro Tip: Avoid tossing items you may want later. Set aside a “Maybe” box to re-evaluate objects you’re uncertain about once settled in your new home.

Choosing Professional Movers Mindfully

Hiring professional movers instead of tackling it alone with friends is highly recommended for long distance or complex relocations. Follow these tips for choosing the best movers:

Verify their licenses. Interstate moves require the company to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Check that licenses are valid and up to date.

Look for well-trained staff. Established companies have extensive training programs for movers/packers and take safety very seriously. Avoid under-experienced independent contractors.

Confirm they have insurance. Good moving companies carry both liability insurance (to cover damages) and workman’s comp (for employee injuries on the job). This protects you and

5 Things You Should Do to Prep For a Move Before You Even Start Packing