Moving day requires the same readiness and preparation you put into preparing it. Your process for a successful out-of-state move should include key components to avoid being caught off guard, such as unplugging appliances, handling paperwork, double-checking inventory, and more.
After hiring your choice of the best interstate moving companies, you’d think that all you have to do is sit back and relax when moving day arrives. But you still need to do a few things on your end to make sure everything goes as planned.
To help you out, we’ve compiled an interstate moving checklist of all the tasks you should complete when the big day arrives.
Moving Day: Before the Movers Arrive
The key to a successful interstate move is being prepared when your movers arrive. Having everything in order with a comprehensive moving checklist can avoid potentially stressful situations and ensure that your belongings are handled with care.
Secure parking
The first thing you should do on moving day, or a night or two before, depending on where you live, is secure parking for a moving truck. This could involve posting signs, cones, or other markings to ensure that your movers have a spot to park without getting towed or ticketed.
Pro Tip: Consider moving companies that organize parking permits on your behalf. This will save you from waking up super early to reserve a spot for the truck.
Unplug all appliances and electronics
Before movers arrive, unplug any major appliances you’ve needed up until the big day. This could include your fridge, oven, stove, washer and dryer, dishwasher, etc. You should also unplug any electronics, such as your TV, computer, sound system, etc., and prepare them for transport.
Pro Tip: Full-service movers can include appliance disconnection and reconnection as part of their overall quote. If you know you’ll be busy with other moving checklist tasks on the big day, get a moving quote with this add-on to make things easier.
Make belongings easier to access
It can be helpful (and cheaper) to move your belongings closer to where the movers will be loading the truck. This means that your belongings will be less likely to be damaged in the loading process, and the overall move will take less time.
Pro Tip: If you have heavy furniture, it’s always a good idea to clear a path from the door to the moving truck. This way, the movers won’t have to lift your furniture over any obstacles, which could damage it.
Do a final walkthrough
Be sure to double-check that everything is clearly labeled and accounted for. Once the movers start loading everything onto the truck, making changes will be more difficult. This step also includes double-checking your essentials bag.
Make sure that it includes everything you’ll need for the first few days in your new home, such as clothes, toiletries, medications, important documents, etc.
Moving Day: When the Movers Arrive
Even with full-service movers handling all the hard work, your presence (and help) is still needed on moving day. You should do a few things when the movers arrive to ensure everything goes according to plan.
Familiarize the movers
The first thing you should do is familiarize the movers with your stuff. This means showing them what rooms things are in, where delicate items are located, and any other special instructions you have. This will help the movers know how to best handle your belongings and avoid any accidents.
Pro Tip: Movers have a process so focus more on where or what everything is rather than how to move it. For example, let them know which boxes are heavy, full of delicate items, etc., but don’t try to tell them how to lift or carry things.
Wait for the Bill of Lading
Be sure to get a Bill of Lading, or BOL, from the moving company. This document is a binding contract between you and the mover that includes all the details of your move. It’s important to have this document so that you can track your belongings and make sure that everything arrives safe and sound.
Review all paperwork
Be sure to review all paperwork with the moving company before signing anything. This includes the BOL, destination addresses, final weight tally, and other contracts or agreements. This will help you understand what you’re agreeing to and avoid costly surprises down the road.
Pro Tip: Ask for a copy of everything you sign and keep it together with your moving checklist. This way, you can refer back to it later if you have any questions or problems.
Do one final walkthrough with the movers
A final walkthrough with the movers will ensure that nothing gets left behind. It will also allow you and the movers to discuss any damages to the home or apartment that may have happened during the move. This way, you can avoid any misunderstandings or disputes later on.
Pro Tip: Take pictures or videos of any damages that may have occurred during the move. This will help back up your claims if there are any problems later on.
Tip the movers (if you want to)
Tipping the movers is always appreciated but not required. However, if you’re happy with the job they’ve done, a tip is an excellent way to show your appreciation. A general guideline is $20 per mover, but you can give more or less depending on your budget and the level of service you received.
Moving Day: After the Movers Leave
Just because the movers are gone doesn’t mean your moving checklist is complete. There are still a few things you need to do to wrap up your move so you can get on your way to enjoying your new home.
Turn off utilities (if necessary)
Depending on your arrangement with your utility companies, you may need to turn off your utilities before leaving your old home. Be sure to do this as soon as the movers are gone, so you’re not responsible for any charges after you’ve moved out.
Pro Tip: Make sure you understand exactly when and how to turn off your utilities. This way, you can avoid any problems or fees later on.
Take down moving signs
If you’ve put up signage to save space for the moving truck, remember to take it down once they leave. Additionally, if you have put up signage in your apartment building for elevator or staircase reservations – make sure to take those down as well.
Moving Day: Arrival at New Destination
Moving in can be just as much work as moving out. But a detailed moving checklist and the right full-service long-distance movers can make this process a lot easier.
Secure parking
Like moving out day, you may need to secure parking before the movers arrive to unload belongings in your new place. In rural areas where parking is abundant, this may not be an issue – but in more urban areas, it’s always best to have a spot saved for the moving truck.
Pro Tip: Arrive a few days before your movers to get these details sorted out. This will save money on potential long-carry fees and ensure the unloading process goes smoothly.
Check for damages
Once the movers have unloaded all of your belongings, it’s time to do a final check for any damages that may have occurred during transit. If you notice anything, be sure to document it with photos or videos and notify the moving company as soon as possible.
Pro Tip: Most long-distance moving companies have a claims process that you’ll need to follow in order to get compensated for any damages. Be sure to understand this process before you move, so you know what to expect.
Have a plan for pets and kids
While moving out means you can pick up your kids or pets from a sitter after the movers have left, moving into a new place means you’ll need to have a plan for them while you’re unloading and unpacking. It’s best to have someone watch them during this time so you can focus on getting everything sorted out.
Settle any charges or final payments
Lastly, you’ll need to take care of any final charges or payments due. This may include undocumented access fees, tipping the movers, or paying for additional services requested. Be sure to have your credit card, checkbook, or cash handy.
Pro Tip: Always do in-home and virtual estimates for both the starting point and destination. This will ensure that the movers can accurately estimate the cost of your move and that you’re not surprised by any hidden fees at the last minute.
Post Move Tasks
Once you’ve completed all the tasks on your moving day checklist, it’s time to start unpacking and settling into your new home. This can be daunting, but you can do a few things to make it easier.
Unpack essentials first
The first thing you should do is unpacked your essentials kit. This should include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, towels, bedding, and any other items you’ll need to get by for the first few days. Once you’ve taken care of this, you can start unpacking the rest of your belongings.
Pro Tip: If you have the time and energy, it’s best to unpack one room at a time. This will help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the whole process.
Leave a review for the movers
If you used a moving company, be sure to leave them a review on their website or social media page. This will help other people looking for reputable moving companies, and it’s also a nice way to show appreciation for a job well done.
Donate packing supplies
If you have any leftover packing supplies, consider donating them to a local charity or thrift store. This is a great way to recycle and reuse materials, and it’s also a nice way to give back to your community.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I wear on moving day?
If moving during the summer, dress in light and comfortable clothing. In the winter, dress in layers so you can easily adjust to the temperature. Wear closed-toe shoes to avoid any injuries, and be sure to tie back long hair to avoid it getting caught in anything.
2. What do I do if my movers are late?
Traffic, bad weather, and other unforeseen circumstances can sometimes cause movers to be late. If this happens, try to remain calm and patient. You can also use this time to do a final check of your home to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. If movers are late for no reason, be sure to note it in the review.
3. Will the movers pack my stuff on moving day?
If you have hired full-service movers with packing and unpacking services, then they will pack your belongings on moving day. However, if you have hired movers but are packing yourself, you’ll need to have everything packed and ready to go before they arrive.
4. When is the cheapest day to move?
The cheapest day to move is typically mid-week, as most people usually move on the weekends, causing higher demand (and pricing) for movers. If midweek isn’t possible for you, consider a weekend move during the moving off-peak season (fall and winter) for better moving rates.
5. How do I protect my floors on moving day?
The best way to protect your floors on moving day is to put down floor protection. Full-service movers typically include this in their price, but if you’re doing the move yourself, you’ll need to purchase it separately. Also, be sure to put it down in high-traffic areas, such as doorways and hallways, to avoid any damage.
Make Interstate Moves Easy
Moving day can be a stressful and chaotic time, but if you plan ahead and stay organized, it can go smoothly. Combine this moving checklist with one of your own making and ensure nothing will be left behind. With reputable licensed movers and the right frame of mind, your interstate move can be completed quickly, efficiently, and free from the headaches of a haphazardly planned move.
