The 30 days before you move are an important time to get organized and take care of last-minute tasks.
Here are some key things to do during that time
- Make a moving plan
- Start packing early
- Organize your paperwork
- Do a final sweep and clean up clutter
- De-stress
- Finalize your moving arrangements
- Say goodbye to friends and neighbors
1- Make a moving plan. Figure out what needs to be done and when it needs to be done. This will help you stay on track and avoid stress in the weeks leading up to your move.
2- Start packing early. Packing can be a daunting task, but it’s much easier if you start early. Begin by packing the items you won’t need until after your move, such as off-season clothing or holiday decorations.
3- Organize your paperwork. Make sure you have all the necessary documents for your move, such as identification cards, passports, tax forms and insurance policies.
4- Do a final sweep. One month before your move date, go through your home room by room to make sure there are no valuables left out in the open. For more on what to do on moving day, see our article: “Moving Day Checklist.”
5- Clean up (and give away) clutter. Cleaning house is the perfect task for the 30 days leading up to your move; it will help you purge items you no longer need and allow you to get organized for packing. Consider giving away or donating items like furnishings that won’t fit into your new space or items you don’t use more but plan to keep for sentimental reasons.
6- De-stress. The weeks leading up to a move can be stressful, so make sure to take some time for yourself. Relax with a good book or take a yoga class to help you unwind
7- Finalize your moving arrangements. Make sure to reserve a moving truck or container, hire movers, and arrange for storage if needed.
8- Say goodbye. One of the most difficult tasks in the lead-up to a move is saying goodbye to your friends and neighbors. Take some time to reminisce and reflect on the good times you’ve had in your old home. And don’t forget to make new friends in your new town!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful moving experience.
a) Is it okay to schedule the movers for when I’m at work?
You should be home when your movers come in order to check in with them and make sure they are doing a good job. There’s no need to stay home all day, but you’ll want to make sure nothing is damaged or missing when they leave.
b) Is there anything I can do the month before moving?
One of the best things you can do during the month before your move is to declutter and organize your belongings, giving yourself more space for packing. You may also want to consider looking into extra storage options if needed so that your new living space will be ready by the time get there. Also, think about what items you don’t need anymore and give them to friends, family members or charitable organizations. For more tips on the 30 days before your move, check out our moving checklist.
c) Am I allowed to hire movers if I’m living in an apartment?
If you’re renting a space within a building that provides moving services, you’ll likely have trouble finding reliable movers who are permitted to work there. However, if you live in a house or other privately owned home where the buildings around yours are vacant or for sale, then it should be fine to hire professionals. Make sure to ask your landlord first before taking this step.
Preparation is key! If possible try to start packing at least one month before the move date.
If you’re planning on doing it yourself, make sure to download our free moving checklist for easy reference. You can also check out this guide on what you should do during the month before your move.
