Moving day is almost here, and while it’s exciting to be so close to your new home, this last stretch can feel a bit overwhelming. Final preparations are key to making the move smooth and stress-free. Here’s a detailed checklist to ensure you’re fully ready for the big day.
1. Confirm All Moving Arrangements
If you’ve booked a professional moving company, reach out to confirm the time they’ll arrive and any specific instructions. Double-check details with anyone assisting you on moving day, such as friends or family, to ensure everyone is clear on timing and responsibilities.
Pro Tip: Have contact information for your movers or helpers easily accessible.
2. Pack a ‘First Night’ Essentials Box
Prepare a box with essentials for your first night in your new home. This box should include:
- Bedding and towels
- Toiletries
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Snacks, beverages, and any necessary cooking utensils
- Chargers and essential electronics
- Change of clothes and pajamas
Label it clearly, and consider keeping it with you rather than sending it with the moving van to avoid unpacking delays.
3. Take Final Meter Readings
Before leaving your old home, take final readings for gas, electric, and water meters. Record the values and inform your utility providers of your move-out date. This ensures you’ll only be charged for utilities used until the day you leave.
Pro Tip: Snap a photo of each meter reading for easy reference later.
4. Do a Final Walkthrough
Walk through each room of your current home to double-check that nothing is left behind. Pay close attention to easily overlooked areas like:
- Attics, basements, and garages
- High cabinets and behind doors
- Utility rooms and outdoor spaces
This is also a good time to spot clean or tidy up as a courtesy to the new occupants.
5. Set Up Your New Home’s Utilities and Services
If you haven’t already, contact utility providers for your new home to ensure everything’s set up and ready for you. This includes electricity, gas, water, and internet. Arranging this before moving day helps avoid downtime and potential delays.
6. Prepare for Pets and Children
If you have pets or young children, arrange a safe space for them during the move to reduce stress. Consider having a friend or family member look after them, or create a comfortable area at your new home where they can settle in quietly while the move is underway.
7. Label and Organise Boxes for Easy Unpacking
Make sure boxes are labeled by room and with brief descriptions of their contents. This will make the unloading and unpacking process faster and more efficient. If you can, mark boxes with essentials as “Open First” so you can quickly access what you need right away.
8. Keep Important Documents and Valuables With You
Gather important documents and valuable items, such as passports, jewelry, and important paperwork, and keep them with you instead of packing them in the moving truck. This adds peace of mind, knowing that essentials are secure and accessible.
9. Clean as You Go
While moving things out, do some light cleaning to ensure the space is presentable for the new owners. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathroom, as these are typically the areas that new occupants will use first.
10. Take a Final Moment to Say Goodbye
Before you head out, take a quiet moment to appreciate the memories you made in your old home. Moving on to a new chapter is exciting, but it’s always nice to reflect on the place that got you here.
