A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Kent

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Western Van and Storage, our team has assisted countless Kent customers with moving since 1949. Now we’re sharing some of that experience with you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Use this checklist to make your move as easy as possible.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing Important Documents

• Start an organized folder for move paperwork
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
• Keep copies of your change-of-address confirmation and important contact numbers
• Make backup scans of crucial documents, just in case

Decluttering

• Started a keep pile
• List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Keep everything to donate in a designated area
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

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

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Locate birth certificates, passports, and medical records
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Make a detailed list of all belongings
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Photograph valuable possessions for records
• Save images to the cloud for insurance and condition records
• Make hard copies or backups in case you need them

Managing Perishables and Hazardous Supplies

• Finish your fresh food before move day
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

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
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Managing Banking and Storage

• If changing banks (long distance move) make plans for emptying out your safe deposit box before moving day
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Book an appointment with your bank or storage manager
• Decide on a secure way to move sensitive or pricey items
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• Let the post office know your new address so your mail gets forwarded
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Notifying Schools & Healthcare Providers

• Inform teachers, medical professionals, and veterinarians of your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• 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

Time Off Work

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• Tie up loose ends before you leave for moving day
• Don’t forget to arrange for WiFi at your new home

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Planning Your New Space

• Sketch out room arrangements before moving day
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Label your furniture and boxes with the room name to make moving day easier for everyone

Keeping Your Most Important Items Safe

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Carry important daily items in your pocket or purse
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Building Access & Keys

• Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and gate codes for both your old and new homes
• Put all keys and access cards in a clearly labeled envelope so you can find them easily

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

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

Arranging for Clean-Up

• 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)
• Arrange for a cleaning at your new place before you move in, so it's fresh and ready for your things
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• 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
• Pick who’s in charge of moving your stored belongings
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• 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

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Mark the space with cones or signs the night before, if allowed, to save the spot for the truck

Managing Utility Shut-Off and Start-Up

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Contact providers ahead of time to coordinate changes in service

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Set aside items that you’ll carry yourself for added peace of mind
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• 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
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Gather up anything you've borrowed from friends, neighbors, or the library
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

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

Unplug and Clean Appliances

• Disconnect all large kitchen and laundry appliances
• Clear out any remaining items so nothing is left behind
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Select tough boxes and write clear descriptions on each
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Review Details for Move Day

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Get Suitcases Packed

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Getting Rid of Unwanted Items

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

Prepare Cash for Moving Day

• Keep cash on hand for anything you might need quickly

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• 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
• Make sure nothing is left behind and everything is ready for the next resident

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• 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
• Make sure no moisture remains to avoid unpleasant smells

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

• Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Power down everything before you lock up

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Put all access devices in a labeled spot for the next resident
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• Do a quick walk-through to make sure everything is ready for unloading

• 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

• 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
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Save these photos for your records in case there are any billing questions later

• Think about rekeying or upgrading for your safety
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Get the Basics Out Right Away

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Set up beds and make sure everyone has what they need for the first night

• Let movers know your unpacking priorities at the start
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Sort out cardboard and plastic for easy removal
• Ask your movers if they offer packing material removal, or find out where you can recycle or dispose of them locally

• 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 pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Leave a review or feedback for your moving company to help others and let the team know how they did

• Collect everything related to your move for easy reference
• 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

• 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

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Make sure you keep receiving mail at your new address
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Kent Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Kent, Western Van and Storage stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Reputation – Relied on by countless Kent customers for since 1949
• Professionalism – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Affordable Results – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Don't stress about your upcoming move – count on the professionals at Western Van and Storage to manage your move from start to finish while you plan your next adventure. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Kent Moving Quote or phone our team at (253) 499-8206 right now!