A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Virginia

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Virginia renters, homeowners, and businesses move 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

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• Keep copies of your change-of-address confirmation and important contact numbers
• Store this folder somewhere easy to access, and consider making digital backups of the most important papers

Sort & Simplify Before You Move

• Set aside things you want to bring to your new place
• Post items online or plan a garage sale
• Arrange for junk removal or donation drop-offs
• Sort belongings into keep, donate, sell, or discard piles

Donation Pickups

• Select gently used things for charity
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Keep everything to donate in a designated area
• Give items to family, friends, or neighbors

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Take photos and write descriptions for everything to be sold
• 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

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Collect all non-move-related but important paperwork
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• Highlight items requiring extra protection or handling

Taking Pictures for Protection

• 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

Managing Perishables and Hazardous Supplies

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Setting Up Your Utilities

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• 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

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• 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

• 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
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Planning for Kids and Pets

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• Arrange care and confirm schedules for pets in advance
• Double-check that pets have updated ID tags and are microchipped with your new address

Planning for Work Absences

• Request time off work for moving day, and for packing or unpacking if you think you'll need it
• Let your boss and coworkers know about your move so they can plan around your absence
• Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
• Make a list of any urgent work tasks to finish before your days off
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Planning Your New Space

• Create a simple floor plan for your new home and decide where you want your furniture and large items to go
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
• Take pictures of each room in your new place to help you plan the layout
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Keeping Your Most Important Items Safe

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
• Carry important daily items in your pocket or purse
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Managing Entry and Exit

• 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

4 Weeks Before Moving

Contact Bayshore

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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all 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

Cleaning Arrangements

• Hire professionals to clean your old place post-move
• Arrange for a cleaning at your new place before you move in, so it's fresh and ready for your things
• Make a checklist of any areas you want the cleaners to pay special attention to
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

Storage Access or Transfer

• Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• 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

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• Give advance notice of your move to your neighbors
• 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

• Make sure every utility is disconnected at your old home and connected at the new address
• Contact providers ahead of time to coordinate changes in service

Keeping Important Items Safe

• Start packing personal items you want to move yourself, like medications, keepsakes, and important documents
• Choose strong boxes for personal things and place them somewhere secure
• Add a prominent “Do Not Move” note so they stay with you

Essentials Box/Bag

• 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

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Double-check you’re stocked with all necessary medicines

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Defrost the freezer to prevent leaks and damage during the move
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• Keep your mover's details easily accessible

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Make sure keys and passes for every property are on hand
• Keep contact numbers for the moving company, building managers, and emergency contacts
• Organize everything in a folder or envelope that's easy to carry and access on moving day

Prepare Overnight Bags for the Family

• Prepare a travel bag for everyone with all necessary basics like a few changes of clothes and toiletries
• Include chargers, medications, favorite toys, and anything you'll want right away at your new place

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• 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
• Dispose of, give away, or repurpose things you don’t need
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Have Spending Money Ready

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

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Double-check arrangements for child or pet care on moving day
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• 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

• Arrange for a helper to greet service providers and deliveries
• Make sure someone is available to answer the door and supervise any set-up or installations

Prepare Refrigerator

• Clear out perishables and leftovers completely
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Get Washing Machine Ready

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Stabilize the drum according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• 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

• Inspect every nook and cranny for stray items
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
• Leave a note or instructions if needed (for mail, trash day, or anything special about the house)

At Your New Home

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• 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
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Quickly review each item for problems before accepting delivery

• Report any issues right away for proper claims
• Take photos of any damaged items for your records

• 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
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Think about rekeying or upgrading for your safety
• Get permission from the property manager before making changes

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

• If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

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

• Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• 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

• Collect everything related to your move for easy reference
• Keep paperwork in case you need to reference it later

• Set aside a go-bag with necessities you’ll want throughout the day
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• 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

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Change your shipping details with every service you use

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

Need Help With Your Virginia Move?

When you're looking for reliable movers in Virginia, Bayshore Moving and Storage sets the standard for value and customer care.

• Trust – Relied on by countless Virginia customers for since 1920
• Professionalism – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Best Value – Our goal is to keep your moving costs as low as possible

Don't stress about your upcoming move – trust the moving team from Bayshore Moving and Storage to manage your move from start to finish while you plan your next adventure. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Virginia Moving Quote or give us a ring at 571-540-7146 to get started!