A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Broad Run

Moving can actually be simple, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Shoreview Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Broad Run renters, homeowners, and businesses move since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing Important Documents

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• Have address update info and emergency contacts ready to go
• Make backup scans of crucial documents, just in case

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Started a keep pile
• Post items online or plan a garage sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Sort belongings into keep, donate, sell, or discard piles

Arrange Donation of Unwanted Items

• Select gently used things for charity
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Share useful items with your social circle

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Set up tables and get cash ready for customers

Important Documents

• Find all your essential documents early
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Place all important documents together in a secure, easy-to-find spot

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Documenting Your Valuables

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Save images to the cloud for insurance and condition records
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Make arrangements for things you can’t take in the truck

Utility Arrangements

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Set the dates to turn off electricity, gas, water, internet, and trash service at your old address
• Set up start dates for all your utilities at the new address so everything's ready when you arrive
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Handling Secure Storage Before the Move

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Coordinate your access ahead of moving day
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Do a final check to make sure nothing gets left behind in storage

Updating Your Mailing Info

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Ask about transferring any records you'll need at your new place

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Bring entertainment, snacks, and favorite things for the trip
• Prepare everything for their comfort and health
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• Ensure all pets have current information on identification

Planning for Work Absences

• Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
• Let your boss and coworkers know about your move so they can plan around your absence
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Make a list of any urgent work tasks to finish before your days off
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Planning Your New Space

• Create a simple floor plan for your new home and decide where you want your furniture and large items to go
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Double-check the size of your new rooms so you don't end up with furniture that's too big or too small
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Keeping Your Most Important Items Safe

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Gather every key, remote, and code you’ll need on moving day
• Put all keys and access cards in a clearly labeled envelope so you can find them easily

4 Weeks Before Moving

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Double-check with both your old and new buildings about any move-in or move-out requirements
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• See if you should book parking or elevator slots in advance
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Making Sure Both Homes Are Clean

• Book a cleaning service for your old home after you move out, so it's ready for the next person (and to help get your deposit back)
• Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Storage Access or Transfer

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• Organize everything in storage for fast loading
• Reserve your new unit and make sure you know when it’s open

Letting Others Know About Your Move

• Let your neighbors know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• Find out about parking rules in both old and new neighborhoods
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Secure your parking area in advance with easy to see markers or cones

Managing Utility Shut-Off and Start-Up

• Double-check that all your utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are scheduled to be turned off at your old place and turned on at your new one
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Choose strong boxes for personal things and place them somewhere secure
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Prepare an Essentials Box

• Prepare a go-bag with everything for your first nights in the new house
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Drop off everything you’ve borrowed to the right owners

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Call your pharmacy and arrange to have any prescriptions transferred to a pharmacy near your new home
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
• Towel dry all appliances to prevent mess, mold, or rust

Finish Packing Items You Don't Need Daily

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Review Details for Move Day

• Contact the team to lock in the schedule
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• Make sure you have contact info handy for the moving team on the day

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Keep contact numbers for the moving company, building managers, and emergency contacts
• Store all paperwork and small essentials for easy access

Pack Suitcases with Essentials

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Gather Up Valuables and Important Documents

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• Round up everything valuable or sentimental
• Keep these items in a secure bag or folder that will travel with you-not with the movers

Final Declutter

• Walk through the house to catch leftover clutter
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Set Aside Cash for the Big Day

• Take out cash for tipping your movers, buying snacks, or handling any last-minute expenses or emergencies

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

• Double-check arrangements for child or pet care on moving day
• Confirm times, drop-off/pick-up details, and share your contact info with the caregiver

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Confirm all bins are empty and clean

Line Up Assistance for Delivery and Set-Up

• Have someone you trust available to supervise on move-in day if you can’t be there
• Make sure someone is available to answer the door and supervise any set-up or installations

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Sanitize the inside to remove soap and residue
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• If you have a front-loading washer, secure the drum with moving bolts to protect it during the move
• Allow extra time for remaining dampness to disappear

At Your Old Home

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• Alert movers to pieces that require extra attention or are not going

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• Make sure all your items are on the official moving inventory

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• Switch off all electronics and utilities

• Do a last check of every room, closet, cabinet, attic, basement, and garage to make sure nothing is forgotten
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
• Leave a note or instructions if needed (for mail, trash day, or anything special about the house)

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• Mark rooms or label doors to speed up the process
• Label doorways or rooms if it helps make things easier and faster

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• If you notice any damage or problems, make a note of it on the moving paperwork before you sign anything
• Create visual evidence for claims if needed

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Store pictures as proof for future utility claims

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Unpack Essentials First

• Open up boxes with your most-used essentials first
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Break down boxes and gather packing paper and bubble wrap
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
• Follow local rules to make sure your car is properly registered
• Fill out the paperwork so your furry friends are legal at your new address

• Walk around and offer a friendly greeting
• A quick chat can go a long way toward feeling at home

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

• Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Before unplugging your TV, computer, or entertainment center, take clear photos of the cable connections and setup
• Refer to your images for a hassle-free setup

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Bring extra things to make your family feel at home right away

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Change your shipping details with every service you use

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Broad Run Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Broad Run, Shoreview Moving and Storage is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Reputation – Chosen by countless Broad Run clients since 1920
• Expertise – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Affordable Results – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Don't stress about your upcoming move – trust the moving team from Shoreview Moving and Storage to handle everything while you focus on starting your new chapter. We put our heart into every move!

Get Your Free Broad Run Moving Quote or call 703-291-8208 to get started!