Did you know local moves aren’t a whole lot less challenging than long-distance moves? Whether you’re moving a few blocks or across town, you can save some stress with a good plan. Here are some local moving tips to get you started:
- Start packing early
- Look for reliable local movers
- Set up your utilities before you move in
- Make a moving-day care plan for kids, pets, and older relatives
- Plan to settle in after the move
Learn how to move in your city: before, during, and after.
How To Prepare for Moving Locally
Thoughtful preparation is the first step in a smooth local move. Start early to avoid last-minute scrambling and to keep the process organized.
Declutter and Downsize
Before the first box gets packed, take time to declutter. Sort through closets, drawers, and forgotten corners. Keep what you need, sell what you can, and donate the rest. By cutting down on unnecessary items, you reduce moving costs, transport less, and have less to unpack.
Make a Moving Timeline and Checklist
A timeline will keep you on track during the moving process. Break tasks down week by week, assigning deadlines for each. Here’s an example of what a moving checklist could look like:
- 8 weeks out: Book local movers or reserve a moving truck
- 6 weeks out: Start gathering packing materials
- 4 weeks out: Notify utility companies
- 2 weeks out: Pack non-essential items
- 1 week out: Confirm moving details with the local moving company
- 1 day out: Pack a box of essentials for your first night
Research Your Future Neighborhood
Moving is not just about the home—it’s about the area around it. Look into the schools, utility companies, and transportation options in your new neighborhood. Contact the electric, gas, and internet providers to set up services ahead of time. That way, you can settle in without delays.
Purchase Packing Supplies
At about six weeks out, you can start collecting packing supplies. Here’s a list of the essentials:
- Moving boxes of various sizes
- Bubble wrap
- Packing paper and foam peanuts
- Sturdy packing tape
- Sharpies or labels for marking boxes
- Furniture blankets or pads
- Plastic wrap for furniture drawers
Having everything ready early will make packing easier and more efficient.
Find a Local Moving Company
Before your local move, decide whether or not to use a moving company and begin your research.
You want movers who are reputable, experienced, and easy to communicate with. Here’s what you need to do to find trustworthy local movers for your next move around town.
Ask Around
Referrals are the best way to go when moving locally. You probably know a lot of people who have hired local movers before. Start by checking in with friends, family, or neighbors who’ve moved around in the area recently. If someone you trust was happy with their move, you probably will be, too.
Check Feedbacks
Use Google Reviews or the Better Business Bureau to gauge the quality of moving companies. Look for positive patterns and people who share your situation. Also, make sure the movers are legit by seeing if they’re listed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which means they follow the rules for moving services.
Check Insurance and Licensing
Before settling on a company, make sure the movers have insurance. You want to make sure your things are covered while they’re being moved. Moving companies should display licensing information on their website or freely give it over the phone.
Ask About Services
Narrow in on the services you’re interested in. Some movers are generalists and some deal with special situations. These services could include:
- Providing moving boxes, bubble wrap, and other supplies
- Truck rental
- Packing services
- Helping to load and unload your things
- Furniture disassembly and assembly
- Specialty items such as safes or pianos
These are just a few of the extra services that could help make your move smoother.
What To Do on Moving Day
You also want to preplan moving day. Dealing with kids, pets, utilities, and the moving crew all at once can get crazy.
Kids and Pets
Kids and pets can get in the way and amplify moving day stress. To keep things chill, arrange for someone to look after them on the day of your move. Whether it’s a babysitter or dropping them off at daycare, keeping them out of the moving area helps you stay focused.
If you have to leave the kids or pets at home, set up a quiet, safe spot for them. This could be a room far from the action, where they can chill out while you or the movers do their thing.
Utility Companies and Landlords
Make sure your utilities are sorted out so you don’t move into a cold dark disaster. Confirm that your old place has had its utilities cut off and that the new place has them turned on.
If you’re renting, take a walkthrough of the place with your landlord or real estate agent. This way, you can sort out any last-minute stuff, hand back the keys, and deal with any money matters such as security deposits or unpaid bills.
The Movers
Check your packing list twice to make sure everything’s labeled right, and any breakable items are packed securely with bubble wrap or other padding. Be ready to answer any questions the movers might have, but don’t crowd them—you hired pros after all.
Plan To Make Your New House Feel Like Home
You’ve planned this far, why not set yourself up with a plan after the move? Here’s a simple guide to making your home cozy without getting stressed.
Unpack Smart
Upack essentials and bedroom furniture first. Make sure you can eat, sleep, and find a fresh set of clothes. One room at a time, finish off one area before moving to the next. This keeps things in order.
When you’re done with the boxes, throw them away with the rest of your packing stuff. If you clean as you go, you can save making a second pass through a messy house later on.
Familiarize Yourself
Go say hi to your new neighbors—or at least take a long walk through the neighborhood. Making new acquaintances can help you connect and help and exploring will show you where you can buy essentials. Also, make sure to change your address with your bank, the post office, and any subscriptions you’re on.
Celebrate
Now it’s time to settle into your new home. Add some art, set up your furniture, and put up decorations that show off your style.
Once you’re all in, throw a party for your friends or family members to celebrate. It’s a fun way to celebrate intracity moving and enjoy your new home.
A Final Tip
If you want to skip the research stage, we recommend Zip To Zip Moving Company. They’re a New Jersey moving service with national reach. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, they can take the back-break out of your next move.
