Moving Guide

Moving is stressful, but we’re here to help! Check out our handy Moving Guide below to help you maximize your storage space and make a successful move.

This is a great time to begin outlining the details of your move.

6-8 Weeks Before Moving

  1. Make a list of items you plan on moving and items you wish to take to storage. Note which items will be handled by a mover (if you plan on using one) and those you will handle yourself. Get rid of items you don’t need – have a garage sale, give items to friends, and donate items to local charities.
  2. If you plan on using a moving company, research and get estimates from several moving companies. After selecting your mover, discuss costs, packing, timing, and other necessary details.
  3. Many moving expenses are tax deductible, so maintain a file with important information and receipts for moving-related expenses.
  4. If you’re moving to a new community, it’s great to find out about schools, parks, recreation, and community programs prior to your arrival. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce and/or Visitor’s Bureau.
  5. Prepare to transfer medical, property, fire, and auto insurance through your insurance agent.
  6. Place all your medical records in a safe place. Do not forget prescriptions, vaccination records, and other important information.

4-5 Weeks Before Moving

  1. If you are planning to do the packing yourself, start collecting moving and packing supplies. These can be purchased from your self storage or moving company.
  2. Contact the post office and fill out a U.S. postal change of address form. Provide your new address to your phone company, trash company, cable/satellite, water/electric company, internet provider, insurance companies, banks and financial institutions, clubs, local government agencies, and any other utility companies.
  3. Contact utility companies for disconnection after your scheduled move out. Call ahead to have utilities connected to your new home.
  4. If you have children, register them in their new schools. You can involve your kids in the moving process. They can help pack their toys and items from their room.
  5. If you have pets, make arrangements for transportation. Find out if there are specific requirements for pet ownership in your new township. Also obtain your veterinarian records.

2-4 Weeks Before Moving

  1. Contact us to reserve a moving truck and/or consult with one of our Storage Professionals about useful packing items. 
  2. Start packing items you don’t currently need, separating what you’re moving with you and what’s going into storage. You may not want to pack your valuables in the moving truck – think about keeping them with you.
  3. Don’t forget anything in basements, attics, or closets. Don’t forget about clearing out safety deposit boxes.
  4. Backup important computer files and disassemble your computer. Avoid exposing the parts to extreme temperatures.
  5. Dispose of flammable items like fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry sets, and other hazardous items.
  6. If you have young children, you might want to arrange for a babysitter on moving day to ensure they remain safe during the loading process.
  7. If you are traveling by car, you may want to get your car serviced prior to departure.
  8. Remember to return library books and anything you have borrowed. Collect items you have loaned out.
  9. If you don’t have a safe way to transport your plants, you can give them to friends or a local charity.

1 Week Before Moving

  1. Contact us to reserve a moving truck and/or consult with one of our Storage Professionals about useful packing items. 
  2. Make sure your items are labeled: “Fragile,” “Load First,” “Load Last,” and “Do Not Load.” This is important to ensure the safety of your items.
  3. Ensure that your moving company knows the correct address and phone number to your new home. If possible, also provide them with an address and phone number to get in touch with you until you get to your new home.
  4. It is important to empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator at least a day before moving.
  5. Make plans flexible, make arrangements in case of delays. Confirm travel arrangements, and keep items you will need while the rest of your belongings are in transit.
  6. Pack a box separately with the things you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home, such as snacks, disposable plates and cups, bathroom items, and trash bags.

Moving-Out Day

  1. Thoroughly check your closets, drawers, shelves, attic, and garage to make sure nothing is left.
  2. Turn off all switches and lock all doors and windows.
  3. Stick around throughout the loading process. Inspect the premises and see to it that nothing is left behind.
  4. There must be someone to direct the movers. The driver must have in writing your name and phone number. Also remember to take the destination agent’s name, address, and contact number.
  5. Be patient if you reach your new home before your mover.
  6. Sign the bill of lading and make sure your new address and phone number are correct.

Move-In Day and After

While unloading, make sure there is no damage and no missing items. Make sure utilities are connected. Carry traveler’s checks or cash for quick payments. Plan out placement of major items in your home. If moving to a new state, you will need to renew your driver’s license and revise your will and other legal papers. Locate the hospitals, police stations, and fire stations near your new home.

Have questions about your move or storage needs? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions or reach out to our team today!