Long-distance moves have a way of bringing out all the emotions—excitement, stress, and everything in between. To help keep you focused on the positive and make sure no important step slips through the cracks, here’s your go-to moving checklist. It’s packed with easy-to-follow steps that’ll keep you prepared, on schedule, and (most importantly) as calm as possible!

Two Months Out: The Big Picture Planning Stage

• Research & Book Movers Early
  Moving companies get busy quickly, especially during peak seasons. Start by gathering quotes, reading reviews, and choosing a reputable mover (like A2B!) who fits your budget and timeline. Securing a great mover early is like hitting the jackpot for a stress-free start!
• Declutter Your Way to a Fresh Start
  Don’t pack what you don’t need. Moving is a great excuse to let go of unused items and make space for a fresh beginning. Donate or sell anything you no longer need—this lightens your load and saves on moving costs!
• Create a Moving Binder or Digital Folder
  Keep all quotes, receipts, schedules, and notes in one place. Staying organized now will save you time (and sanity) later. Plus, having everything in one place makes you feel like a moving pro!

One Month Out: Time to Dive Into the Details

• Start Packing Non-Essentials
  Begin with items you won’t need in the next month—think seasonal clothes, extra linens, and holiday decor. Packing these early means less stress later, and if you go room-by-room, it keeps things from becoming overwhelming.
• Label, Label, Label!
  Mark each box with the room it belongs in and a quick note about its contents. Trust me, your future self will thank you when it’s time to unpack.
• Arrange for Utility Transfers
  Schedule end dates for utilities at your old place and start dates at your new one. Internet, water, gas, and electricity can be easy to forget in the hustle of moving, but nothing’s worse than arriving at a new home without Wi-Fi!

Two Weeks Out: Focus on the Essentials

• Confirm Moving Day Details with Movers
  Double-check dates, arrival times, and any specific requirements. Last-minute confirmations ensure you and your movers are on the same page—and keep those small moving-day surprises to a minimum.
• Change Your Address
  Submit a change of address form with the post office and update your new address with banks, subscriptions, and any deliveries. It’s a quick task that can save you loads of time (and prevent misplaced mail) later.
• Plan for Pets and Plants
  Pets and plants need special care on moving day. Arrange pet sitters or transport crates, and look into safe ways to move your plants if they’re coming along.

One Week Out: Last-Minute Prep

• Finish Packing and Set Aside Essentials
  Try to have the majority of your packing done a few days before moving day. Set aside a “first-night” essentials bag with toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, and any other basics you’ll want easy access to immediately upon arrival.
• Empty and Clean Appliances
  If you’re moving your fridge, make sure it’s defrosted and cleaned a day or two before the move. Also, disconnect and drain other appliances to make them moving-ready.

Moving Day: Stay Calm & Stay Focused

• Get an Early Start with a Quick Walkthrough
  Do one final sweep to make sure every last drawer, cabinet, and closet is empty. It’s easy to overlook small spaces in the rush, so give each room a double-check before you lock up.
• Guide the Movers Through Your Home
  Walk movers through any special instructions (like fragile items or specific rooms to start with) and let them know where to place items in the new space. Clear communication keeps the day smooth for everyone involved.
• Take Photos of Both Homes (if needed)
  If you’re renting, snap photos of your old and new places before you leave and after you arrive. It’s handy documentation for any security deposit situations.

Moving Forward with Ease

That’s it! With this checklist, you’re covered from start to finish. Moving long-distance doesn’t have to feel like a marathon, and with a bit of planning, you’ll have the keys to a stress-free experience. At A2B Moving and Storage, we’re here to handle the logistics so you can focus on the excitement of your new home. Here’s to smooth sailing on your moving day!