A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Montgomery

Moving can actually be simple, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Lambert Moving Systems, we have supported moves for countless Montgomery individuals and organizations since 1925. 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
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• Choose a safe but handy spot for your paperwork

Sort & Simplify Before You Move

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
• Arrange for junk removal or donation drop-offs
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Donation Pickups

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Get a secure container or digital solution for storage
• Have your documents handy for when you arrive

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Write down everything you’re moving
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Photos for Insurance

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Upload all images to a secure storage account
• Make hard copies or backups in case you need them

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

• Finish your fresh food before move day
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Managing Power, Water, and Other Services

• Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• 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

• 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
• Coordinate your access ahead of moving day
• 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

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

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

Child & Pet Care

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• 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

Time Off Work

• Request time off work for moving day, and for packing or unpacking if you think you'll need it
• Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Getting to Know Your New Area

Preparing the Layout of Your New Place

• 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
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Hold on to passports, special keepsakes, and sensitive files
• Pack a small bag with chargers, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes for each family member
• Carry important daily items in your pocket or purse
• Personally move anything that can’t be replaced

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• 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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all requirements
• Check on required documents or proof of coverage
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Confirm any paperwork or forms that need to be filled out ahead of time
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

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

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
• 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
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Keeping Important Items Safe

• Start packing personal items you want to move yourself, like medications, keepsakes, and important documents
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Pack a box or bag with things you'll need right away at your new home-think toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and a few days' worth of clothes
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Round up all borrowed goods from others or community resources
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Prescription Transfers

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• 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
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Towel dry all appliances to prevent mess, mold, or rust

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Keep fragile items well-protected with padding
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• Keep your mover's details easily accessible

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Store all paperwork and small essentials for easy access

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

• Find and assemble all the documents you can’t afford to lose like passports and birth certificates
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Final Declutter

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Dispose of, give away, or repurpose things you don’t need
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Have Spending Money Ready

• Keep cash on hand for anything you might need quickly

Confirm Child or Pet Care

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• Confirm times, drop-off/pick-up details, and share your contact info with the caregiver

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

• Arrange for a helper to greet service providers and deliveries
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Take out everything from both compartments
• Unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open to defrost
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Get Washing Machine Ready

• Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• 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
• Alert movers to pieces that require extra attention or are not going

• Accompany the movers during their inspection to ensure nothing is missed
• Make sure all your items are on the official moving inventory

• 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
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Peek in unlikely places for things you may have missed

• 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

At Your New Home

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Use your floor plan or notes to show the movers exactly where you want each piece of furniture and each box
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

• Mark off belongings to verify nothing is missing
• Look for dents or scratches before the movers leave

• If you notice any damage or problems, make a note of it on the moving paperwork before you sign anything
• Snap pictures as proof for your insurance

• Confirm basic utilities are active and connected
• 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

• Consider changing the locks or getting new keys made for extra peace of mind
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Unpack Essentials First

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Make the beds so everyone can rest easily

• Let movers know your unpacking priorities at the start
• Give clear instructions on where you'd like things put away

• Sort out cardboard and plastic for easy removal
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• 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

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

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

• 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
• Keep this kit with you—not in the moving truck—to stay comfortable and prepared

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Refer to your images for a hassle-free setup

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Bring extra things to make your family feel at home right away

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Update your address with online shopping sites and any subscriptions

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Save these contacts in your phone and keep a printed copy handy in your new home

Need Help With Your Montgomery Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Montgomery, Lambert Moving Systems is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Reputation – Chosen by countless Montgomery clients since 1925
• Experience – Every move is managed by skilled and careful staff
• Affordable Results – Expect transparent pricing and real savings

Take the worry out of moving day – trust the moving team from Lambert Moving Systems to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Montgomery Moving Quote or give us a ring at 334-523-8892 to get started!