Published: July 01, 2023

Moving to a New House? Here’s What to Do Beforehand

Moving to a new house can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you’re relocating to a different city or just moving down the street, proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth transition. From decluttering and organizing your belongings to notifying important contacts, there are several tasks you should complete before moving day. Here is a checklist to help you get started:

1. Declutter and organize: Moving presents an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Sort through your possessions and decide what you want to keep, donate, or discard. Getting rid of unnecessary items will not only reduce your moving workload but also help you start fresh in your new home.
2. Create a moving checklist: Develop a detailed moving checklist that includes all the tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move. Breaking down the process into smaller steps will make it less overwhelming and ensure that nothing gets overlooked.
3. Research and hire a moving company: If you decide to hire a moving company, start researching reputable companies like UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Orange County. Request quotes and read reviews. Be sure to book well in advance to secure your preferred date.
4. Collect packing supplies: Gather all the necessary packing supplies, including boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. You can often find free boxes from local stores or purchase them from moving supply companies. Having ample supplies on hand will make the packing process more efficient.
5. Notify important contacts: Inform relevant parties about your upcoming move. This includes updating your address with the post office, utility companies, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and subscription services. Don’t forget to notify friends, family, and your employer as well.
6. Transfer or cancel utilities: Arrange for the transfer or cancellation of utilities such as electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable services. Schedule the disconnection or reconnection dates accordingly, ensuring you have the necessary services available at both your current and new residences.
7. Pack strategically: Start packing non-essential items well in advance to avoid last-minute chaos. Begin with items you use less frequently and save essentials for last. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Consider creating an inventory list to help you keep track of all your packed belongings.
8. Take inventory of valuables: Before packing, make a detailed inventory of your valuable possessions. Take photos or videos of valuable items for insurance purposes. This will help you ensure that nothing gets lost or damaged during the move and make filing an insurance claim easier, if necessary.
9. Plan for pets and plants: If you have pets, arrange for their transportation and accommodation during the move. Find a pet sitter or make arrangements for them to stay with friends or family until you’re settled in your new home. Similarly, prepare your plants for the move by trimming them and packing them securely.
10. Clean and prepare your new home: If possible, visit your new house before moving day to clean it thoroughly. This way, you can ensure a fresh start in a clean environment. Additionally, measure the space to determine furniture placement and plan any necessary renovations or repairs in advance.

Moving to a new house can be a significant undertaking, but with proper planning and organization, you can make the process smoother and less stressful. By following this checklist and giving yourself ample time to prepare, you’ll be well on your way to a successful move and an exciting new chapter in your life. UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Orange County is here to offer simple solutions to make moving easier! Call us today at (949) 430-6671. Good luck with moving to your new home!