Congratulations on finding your dream home! Now it's time to tackle one final project—the moving process. An organized and well-planned approach will help make this transition easier, so follow the tips in our moving checklist from beginning to end. This list will help you make furniture moves a breeze, determine cost estimates accurately, and ensure you have a wonderful first night in your new abode. Allowing yourself ample preparation time makes for smooth sailing when relocating homes, so let’s get started. 

What do you do before you move?

• Start gathering materials early for your move. Stock up on boxes and save newspapers, or purchase an all-inclusive moving kit from your favorite home improvement store or trusted moving company. And think about using helpful color-coded labels for rooms, which can save you precious time when setting up your new space.

• Get in-person estimates from three or more moving companies. Request a detailed estimate from moving companies, including the separate costs for packing, moving, and unpacking. This way, you'll easily find a service that suits your budget. Plus, if you let them handle the packing, you’ll save a pretty penny on moving supplies. Also, opting for their unpacking service means they'll whisk away those burdensome boxes and packing materials. So, take a moment to ponder the perks and prices before making your choice. 

• Create a budget for your move. After settling on the perfect moving company, it's time to craft a savvy budget that covers every twist and turn of your journey. Whether moving across town or embarking on an interstate adventure, each quest brings its own set of expenses. Think about those takeout meals while your kitchen is a work in progress and any other hidden cost that might creep up. Having a budget helps for a smooth and stress-free transition to your fabulous new home.

• Contact utilities where you currently live and at your new home. Set the stage in your new home by getting your power turned on (and shut off at your former home) and schedule the installation of your cable and phone services. Reroute your mail to your new abode. Keep your financial partnerships in the loop by updating your address with them. And if you’re switching banks, be sure to transfer your auto-deposits and withdrawals so your money flow remains uninterrupted.

Before Moving Checklist:

• Start early gathering materials for your move.

• Get in-person estimates from three or more moving companies.

• Create a budget for your move.

• Contact utilities where you currently live and at your new home.

How do you start packing for a move?

There’s a secret to making packing a stress-free moving experience. Forget the old room-by-room approach, and instead, start packing all those non-essentials first, saving the must-haves for last. These additional packing tips and tricks will transform your packing marathon into a swift, organized breeze.

• As you undertake the task of packing, create an order that works for your lifestyle. Start by boxing up decorative mementos and art pieces, then move on to those bookshelves. Fill boxes up with the novels, CDs, and DVDs you don’t need or use before the move.

• In the world of kitchenware, start packing your treasures like elegant fine china, specialty baking pans, and any other culinary gems that only make special appearances once in a blue moon. Keep your trusty daily dishes and utensils close at hand for those final home-cooked meals before moving.

• Start in the bedroom by giving your off-season wardrobe some vacation time and packing it away early. And for all you fashion lovers with a treasure trove of shoes and handbags, begin stowing the majority of those away in boxes.

• Clear your linen closet and pack away those plush towels, cozy sheets, and charming tablecloths. After all, you likely won't be hosting a soirée anytime soon. This is the perfect time to pack up the guest room, too.

Pack like a pro by starting early and bundling up most of the house, keeping only everyday essentials within reach for now. This method also makes moving bulky stuff a breeze, and your daily routine stays undisturbed until moving day arrives.

Home Moving Packing Tips

• Pack decorative items first.

• Pack lesser-used kitchen tools before everyday dishes.

• Pack off-season clothing early.

• Pack up guest room essentials.

When should you start packing to move?

Don't wait until the last minute; start packing immediately to take control and make your transition as seamless (and stress-free) as possible, especially if you’ll be doing most of the packing. You could even begin getting organized as soon as you put that “For Sale” sign out front by boxing up personal photos and knick-knacks in anticipation of house viewings. 

How do you prepare for a long-distance move?

If you’re starting an exciting new adventure in a different city, let's make sure you've got everything covered to ensure a smooth and memorable long-distance moving experience. 

• Downsizing is key. Give your home a revitalizing breath of fresh air by letting go of those outgrown outfits, forgotten and unused gadgets, and worn-out furnishings. Let your previously loved pieces become treasures for someone else, or earn some extra cash to fund your fresh start. It's a win-win for both your wallet and your rejuvenated living space. You can always replace those old belongings with stylish and updated ones when you reach your new abode. 

• Your budget will be bigger. Consider all the extra expenses that come with a long-distance move. Your journey may include pit stops for meals and hotel stays, as well as gas or the cost of shipping your trusty vehicle, along with needed days off from work. 

• You will need paperwork. Kickstart your moving journey by assembling vital documents, such as medical and school records. Tuck them neatly in a spiffy file folder or box, and let them ride shotgun in your vehicle. A thrilling game of hide-and-seek with this critical paperwork is not how you want to start life in your new home.

• Have a comfort box of favorite items. Nothing compares to the comforting feel of your favorite things, especially during life's big transitions, like moving to a new home. For the grown-ups, this might be a go-to snack, a well-loved coffee cup, essential medications, or that great book you’re in the middle of reading. And for kids, it's all about their treasured toys, beloved bedtime tales, and snuggly blankets. So make sure this precious cargo is always within reach to ease your journey, be it in a hotel or those initial nights in your new dwelling. These familiar touchstones make any place feel like home. 

With these handy moving checklist items, you'll feel confident that you've got everything under control, and before you know it, you'll be unpacked and settling into your new happy place. Making a big move can feel overwhelming, but the excitement and joy you'll experience once you find that perfect new nest are worth it. Picture waking up each morning in a space that truly feels like yours, one that's been designed with your unique style and needs in mind. Discover stylish designs and check out Pulte's new home communities today!