A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Lancaster

Moving doesn't have to be stressful, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Shoreview Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Lancaster individuals and organizations since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Start an organized folder for move paperwork
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• Make backup scans of crucial documents, just in case

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• Post items online or plan a garage sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Share useful items with your social circle

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• List items for sale on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local apps
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

• Find all your essential documents early
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Have your documents handy for when you arrive

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Make a detailed list of all belongings
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Highlight items requiring extra protection or handling

Documenting Your Valuables

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• 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
• Dispose of chemicals and products movers won’t transport
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Setting Up Your Utilities

• Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Managing Banking and Storage

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Set date to empty or move any storage units
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Change of Address

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Child & Pet Care

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Planning for Work Absences

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Getting to Know Your New Area

Organizing and Mapping Out Your Home

• Sketch out room arrangements before moving day
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• 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
• Pack a small bag with chargers, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes for each family member
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• Personally move anything that can’t be replaced

Building Access & Keys

• Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and gate codes for both your old and new homes
• Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

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
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Confirm any paperwork or forms that need to be filled out ahead of time
• Clarify when you’re allowed to move in or out

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Hire professionals to clean your old place post-move
• Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Organize everything in storage for fast loading
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Notifying Neighbors

• 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
• Thank them for their patience with any noise or inconvenience

Parking Permits/Street Reservations

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
• Put up barriers to hold your reserved parking if permitted

Utility Arrangements

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Packing Personal Items

• Start packing personal items you want to move yourself, like medications, keepsakes, and important documents
• Use sturdy boxes or bags for these items and keep them in a safe spot
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Prepare an Essentials Box

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Arranging Medications for Your Move

• Set up prescription transfers so nothing is missed
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Unplug and Clean Appliances

• Disconnect all large kitchen and laundry appliances
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Defrost the freezer to prevent leaks and damage during the move
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Contact the team to lock in the schedule
• Go over details or unique needs with your crew
• Keep your mover's details easily accessible

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
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Organize everything in a folder or envelope that's easy to carry and access on moving day

Prepare Overnight Bags for the Family

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Include chargers, medications, favorite toys, and anything you'll want right away at your new place

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Set aside money, precious items, and family heirlooms
• Make sure valuables stay with you, not in the moving truck

Last-Minute Purge

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

Have Spending Money Ready

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

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

• Reconfirm the schedule and drop-off times
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Clear out every trash can and recycling bin so nothing gets left behind
• 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
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

Prepare Refrigerator

• Clear out perishables and leftovers completely
• Let the fridge and freezer thaw out by airing them
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Let it air out so there’s no dampness left
• Stabilize the drum according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Stay available to answer any questions and give directions to the movers as they work
• Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Observe the move-out process to prevent mistakes

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• Power down everything before you lock up

• Do a last check of every room, closet, cabinet, attic, basement, and garage to make sure nothing is forgotten
• Open every compartment for hidden belongings

• Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Getting Settled in Your New Place

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

• Use your floor plan or notes to show the movers exactly where you want each piece of furniture and each box
• Label doorways or rooms if it helps make things easier and faster

• Keep track of boxes as they’re delivered
• Quickly review each item for problems before accepting delivery

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Create visual evidence for claims if needed

• Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
• Run a quick test on essential appliances for safety

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Start with Must-Have Items

• Start by unpacking the things you'll need right away, like bedding, toiletries, and basic kitchen items
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Give clear instructions on where you'd like things put away

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• See if your moving company can take the waste, or check for local recycling drop-offs

• 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
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbors
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Post your thoughts online to assist other customers

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Hold onto these for your records or in case you can claim moving expenses on your taxes

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Photograph all wires and plugs so reassembly is easy
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Update your address with online shopping sites and any subscriptions

• Research and save phone numbers you might need urgently
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Lancaster Move?

When you're looking for reliable movers in Lancaster, Shoreview Moving and Storage is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Reputation – Chosen by countless Lancaster clients since 1920
• Experience – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Smart Savings – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Take the worry out of moving day – let the experts at Shoreview Moving and Storage manage your move from start to finish while you plan your next adventure. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Lancaster Moving Quote or phone our team at 215-769-9963 right now!