This “countdown” will help you plan and organize your upcoming household move. This is an approximate schedule that we’ve seen work for nearly every residential move. We suggest using this timetable as closely as possible. Also, keep in mind that some things on this schedule may vary for you. So, as you plan this out, we recommend providing yourself a little ‘wiggle-room”.
This schedule assumes that you have already secured a place to move to.
Day 60 — 8 weeks before your expected move date
Research and interview the moving companies that most interest you. As questions about services, costs, and insurances. Read customer reviews and see their status on the Better Business Bureau. Check licenses with the Federal Motor Carrier and Safety Administration (companies that operate commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT Number – ours is proudly displayed on our website, trucks, and trailers), and the American Moving and Storage Association (Murphy is an AMSA Member and “ProMover” MC No. 67234 – The ProMover seal represents nationally recognized, industry-wide standards of conduct for professional movers).
This is an excellent time to check on any school schedule needs.
Day 55
Clean out garage, attic, basement, and closets. This is a good time to purge. Dispose of items you know you will never want or need again. Donations of items in good repair to a local charity may be in order. The less big and heavy items you need to move with can significantly reduce the cost of your move.
Day 50
Contact movers and invite a company representative over to your home for a firm quote. At this point, you are about 7 weeks away from your expected moving date. You may think this and some other items on this list are a bit too soon however as you get closer to your moving date, you’ll be quite busy with packing and maybe even some last-minute purging.
Determine WHO is packing what.
Day 45
Contact current auto & home insurance agent. Review any paperwork needed.
Day 40
Register your change of address with the Post Office here.
Day 35
Check with phone and internet service providers. Confirm change of address location and date. This is also a good day to take the same steps with your banking institution. Confirm change of address and ask for a listing of their branches closest to your new address as well as in-network ATMs.
Day 30 — 4 weeks to go until moving day
If you have items in storage in your basement or attic, this is a good time to organize and label them.
Day 25
If you have pets that can be watched by friends, family or a kennel, make arrangements. If the pets can move WITH you that day, crating may be best for them.
Day 20
Inspect the area around your home to ensure your moving company has clear access. Notes any tree branches or seasonal displays you may have near your front door or main entryway. Ensure these paths are clear for your moving company to ensure safety for the crew and your possessions being moved.
Day 15
Pack clothing and other season-specific items you know you won’t need immediately, before your move.
Day 10
Begin packing your daily clothing and other items. This step will probably take several days as you slowly pack what you’re not using, immediately.
Day 5
Confirm time and location with your chosen moving team.
Day 4
Pack pictures, framed items, and wall hangings today. Ensure items are secured and safe, especially if they’re delicate or glass.
Day 3
If you are packing your dishes, pots, and pans, today is the day.
Ensure all glass and ceramic items are well packed and padded.
Day 2
Review your checklist. For the home you’re moving to, make a label for each room with a single sheet of paper (81/2” x 11”). Use names like “Bedroom #1, Bedroom #2, Pantry, Kitchen, Basement…” You’ll use these on moving day.
Label all boxes to correspond to the room names you used. This will help your moving company to know exactly where you want things.
Final packing of clothing, bedding materials, etc.
Day 1 — Moving Day
Set your alarm and be ready. Packing of toiletries into a final suitcase or overnight bag after being used. Bring any medications you may need for yourself, your family, or pets with you.
If you’ve chosen to keep pets with you (dogs, cats, birds, etc.), it may be best to keep them in a closed room, crated, and/or with a friend or family member at another location. This is for everyone’s safety, especially your pets.
Arrive at your new home before the movers. Use the room labels you made. Tape them to the wall outside each room. This will help your moving team to meet your needs.
At Murphy Moving, families have trusted us with their homes and belongings for more than a century. We’d be pleased to help you make the next move, your best move. Contact us at (866) 719-4209 or online today!