Moving Day Essentials Checklist - Don’t Forget These 10 Things!

The day of a move may be both thrilling and demanding. There are many things to consider when moving, starting with comparing removalist quotes, whether you're moving across town or to a different state. We have created this Moving Day Essentials Checklist to help you stay organised and ensure a seamless relocation. This checklist outlines the ten most important tasks to complete before, during, and immediately after moving day.

  1. Pack a “First Night” Essentials Box

You will hardly get time to unpack every box when you eventually get to your new house. That is why making a "first night" basics kit is vital while planning your Moving Day Essentials Checklist.

Things to Add

  • Toiletries (shampoo, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant)
  • A change of clothes for every member of the family
  • Basic bed linens and towels
  • Power banks and phone chargers
  • Coffee or tea, bottled water, and snacks
  • Paper towels and toilet paper
  • Basic cleaning materials (trash bags, wipes, and multi-surface spray)
  • Any prescription drugs or everyday meds

You shouldn't leave this box on the moving truck; instead, keep it with you and properly label it. Later, when you're too exhausted to go through boxes, you will thank yourself.

Moving Day Checklist
  1. Confirm Moving Details and Contacts

You must verify all of your moving plans one more time the night before moving day and go through your Moving Day Essentials Checklist. It must be timings, locations, and phone numbers to prevent misunderstandings at the last minute.

Your Checklist Before Moving

  • You must verify when your rental truck or professional movers will arrive.
  • Make sure your new address and directions are provided to the moving company.
  • You can review the final offered price and the payment method.
  • You must have the contact number of your moving vehicle’s driver.

You should always make sure the vehicle is fuelled, the dolly and straps are prepared. And you have adequate help booked for loading and unloading.

It is better to have a copy of your moving contract and save it in a convenient folder alongside other crucial records.

  1. Check Your Home Before Leaving 

You should ensure you are not missing anything in the hustle when you plan your Moving Day Essentials Checklist. This will ensure smooth transportation.

Items to Verify

  • You must check all drawers, cupboards, and closets for any remaining objects.
  • You can switch off all of the appliances, fans, and lights after use.
  • And, lock all doors and all windows.
  • You can take pictures of the property for your records (particularly if you are renting).

You should avoid disagreements over your security deposit. If you are a renter, make a note of the property's condition before you go.

  1. Keep Important Documents and Valuables Safe

It is advisable not to keep important documents in the moving vehicle. You should carry them with you in a compact bag or folder labelled clearly.

  • You should keep IDs, passports, and driving licenses with you.
  • Transferring receipts and contracts
  • Documents related to real estate, leases, or mortgages
  • Records of insurance
  • Phones, tablets, and laptops are essentials to have on hand.
  • Watches and jewellery.

In case something gets lost during the relocation, scan crucial documents and safely save digital copies online.

  1. Preparation For Appliances and Furniture

You can make sure everything is ready for use in your new house. Preventing damage is the benefit of careful preparation.

Appliance Checklist

  • You must defrost and clean your refrigerator 24 hours before relocating.
  • You should disconnect hoses and empty washing machines.
  • Tape doors must be shut to stop them from swinging open.

Furniture Checklist

  • You should take big things like tables and beds apart.
  • Also, Store bolts and screws in ziplock bags with labels.
  • It is advisable to cover corners and delicate objects.

You must label every component to facilitate quicker and clearer reassembly at your new residence.

  1. Pack a Moving Day Survival Kit

You must have a survival pack to help you get through the lengthy and physically taxing day of moving.

Your Survival Kit for Moving Day May Contain

  • Energy drinks and bottled water
  • Simple snacks like sandwiches, fruit, or granola bars
  • A package for first aid
  • Tissues and wet wipes
  • Toolkit (utility knife, screwdriver, and hammer)

You can quickly get anything you need during the day. And, keep this kit close at hand, either in your car or in a box with a clear label.

  1. Label Boxes Clearly and Room by Room

Poor labelling is one of the most frequent transferring errors. If you correctly name every box in your new house, it will be helpful at the time of unpacking.

Labelling Advice

  • You can use bold letters to write the room name, such as "Kitchen" or "Bedroom 2."
  • Also, you can label the various rooms with different colours.
  • Any glass or electrical boxes should be marked “FRAGILE”.
  • Include succinct descriptions, such as "Kids' Toys" or "Plates & Glasses."
  • You can write "Open First" on crates containing necessities.

You must know what's in each box and can keep track of everything when unloading. This can be done by making an inventory record of them on paper or using a phone app.

  1. Utilities and Services at Both Homes

Professional advice: notify your utilities (gas, water, internet, and electricity) of your impending move before you relocate.

  • You should make plans to move or disconnect services on the appropriate dates.
  • The day before you move into your new house, make new relationships.
  • At your new one, take preliminary readings.
  • Note these readings and the reference numbers for your records.

You must change your address in banks, insurance companies, and subscription services as soon as you are done with relocating.

  1. Pets and Kids for Moving Day

Children and dogs may experience stress during moves. So you should plan things accordingly.

For kids

  • You can keep their favourite items at hand.
  • Stow games, beverages, and snacks in a "kids' essentials" bag.
  • Arrange a person for care if you are extremely busy on the day

For pets

  • You can place their leashes, bowls, and food in a convenient bag.
  • It is advisable to keep them under watch and away from commotion.
  • You must put your new address on their tags and microchip.
  • You can provide their toys or blankets to help them settle into their new home.

It is advisable to plan stops and have food while relocating to avoid an appetite.

  1. Do a Quick Clean and Check-in at Your New Home

You must clean your new house first before unloading, especially the kitchen and bathrooms.

Checklist for Cleaning

  • You should clean shelves, cabinets, and countertops.
  • You can sweep and clean the floors prior to the furniture being delivered.
  • If necessary, you can also replace the toilet seats and clean the bathroom fittings.
  • Dust vents, light fixtures, and ceiling fans.
  • First, arrange beds and simple furnishings so that you can rest after the relocation.  

If you rent, make a note of any prior damage and notify your landlord or property management straight away.

We hope our Moving Day Essentials Checklist will help you move successfully.