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Originally Posted On: https://www.atlantafurnituremovers.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-local-move/

Let’s face it – moving can be stressful. At Atlanta Furniture Movers, we get it. From preparation, to packing up the house, to the day of the move, moving can be a daunting task. With the right preparation and organization, it can absolutely be a pain-free experience.

Local moves are a little less complex than long-distance moves across states. For one, you’re already familiar with the area you’ll be moving too, which can ease a lot of anxiety. Second, being close to your old home allows you increased flexibility to take your time, go back if you forgot anything, and scope out your new home. One of the best ways to make sure your move goes smoothly is to create a comprehensive moving checklist. In this post, we will provide you with an ultimate moving checklist that includes over 50 tasks to tackle for a stress-free move.

Part 1: Before the Move

Rome wasn’t built in a day — and you can’t get everything done for a move in a day, either! We recommend breaking up necessary moving tasks into 3 categories: before the move, moving day, and post-move. This will make everything that needs to get done feel more approachable, and give you peace of mind throughout the process.

Let’s start with the first, and arguably most important task of all:

Research and hire a reputable moving company: Your moving company can truly make or break your move. You deserve to work with highly qualified moving professionals you can trust to handle your most delicate items with care. We pride ourselves in delivering a truly custom experience tailored to your needs, as well as exceptional communication with our customers to ensure you’re always in the loop with the latest updates. When you hire Atlanta Movers, you’re hiring us to truly be part of your team, and you’ll always know the status of your family’s belongings. We also offer storage solutions for your peace of mind.

• Declutter and donate unwanted items: Before packing, it’s best to take stock of what items won’t be coming with you on your move — think old, worn out clothing, furniture you’ll be upgrading or changing, toys your kids have outgrown, etc.
• Create an inventory of your belongings: Once you’ve purged your home of unwanted items, you can create an inventory list of things you have. We recommend creating an inventory list for each room, so you can check off items as you pack and unpack them.
• Obtain moving supplies: Stock up on moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper for fragile items and permanent markers to clearly label each box.
• Pack non-essential items first: You have to start somewhere. Start by packing seasonal items (think holiday decorations and winter coats if it’s summer, and vice versa in the winter).
• Notify your utility and other service providers of your move: Save yourself a huge headache (and unnecessary spending) by turning off any utilities in your name at your past address like cable, electric and more.
• Change your mailing address with USPS: This is incredibly important to ensure you don’t miss any sensitive documents.
• Transfer or cancel memberships or subscriptions: If you have any subscription services like meal kits, pet supplies or more, be sure to either pause, cancel or change your address.
• Notify bank and credit card companies of new address: Alert your financial institutions of your updated address to make sure sensitive information doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
• Arrange for transportation for pets and plants: We don’t recommend loading plants into boxes or a moving truck, so be sure to drive them separately to your new home along with any pets.
• Make childcare arrangements for moving day: Trust us, this will make life a lot easier!

Part 2: Moving Day

• Double-check your inventory list: Be sure that nothing got left behind or lost in transit.
• Verify the moving truck’s arrival time and location: Make sure your moving company has the correct address, and align on a time for you to both arrive at the new house.
• Confirm the movers’ contact information: Exchange contact information so your movers can keep you informed with updates.
• Direct the movers to where items should be placed in your new home: We recommend mapping out exactly where you want each piece of furniture. Detailed labels on each box is also helpful: (Ex: Upstairs bedroom to the right of the staircase).
• Lock all doors and windows before leaving and take meter readings and photos of your old home: Secure your old home for the new owners, and document exactly how you left it.
• Ensure all items are accounted for before the movers leave: Triple check your inventory list to make sure nothing was lost in transit.
• Check all boxes and items for any damages: Be sure to pack up fragile items like dishes carefully, and report any damages to your moving company.

Part 3: After the Move

• Unpack essential items first: Set up bedding, shower curtains, and unpack essential kitchen items before anything else.
• Set up your utilities and service providers: You can also do this before the move to ensure you’ll be squared away when your family moves in.
• Test your appliances and electronics: Make sure everything is in working order as outlined in your home inspection.
• Inspect your new home for any damages: Was there anything missed during your home inspection? Take a look around for any damages or issues that may have been missed.
• Assemble furniture and hang decorations: Start making your house a home!
• Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration: Make sure any identification is updated with your new address.
• Explore your new neighborhood and find local services: If you’re familiar with the area, you’re one step ahead! If not, find your nearest home improvement center, hospital, grocery store, etc.
• Register to vote in your new area: Life gets busy, so be sure to complete your voter registration once you’ve settled in.
• Review your moving company and leave a review: A reputable moving company will want to hear your honest feedback, so they can continue serving their community with the highest quality service.

Moving is a complex and multi-step process that can be stressful and overwhelming. By following our ultimate moving checklist, you can reduce stress and ensure a smooth and successful move. Contact us and receive a free estimate, and tell us how we can help during your upcoming move!