Moving can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can make the process smoother for you and your family. From packing to settling into your new home, these 17 tasks—curated by real estate professionals—will help you stay organized and calm throughout the move.

Before Moving Day: Get Prepared

1. Get Organized
Start by reviewing your contract and key dates. Work backwards from your moving day to break tasks into manageable steps. A week-by-week plan will help prevent last-minute chaos.

2. Have a Family Check-In
Moving is a big change for everyone, especially children. Discuss the upcoming move openly and answer questions honestly. Staying positive will help everyone feel more comfortable with the transition.

3. Start Packing Early
Pack smart by securing fragile items, avoiding overstuffed boxes, and clearly labeling everything. Consider letting professional movers handle delicate or bulky items, and tackle one room at a time to make packing manageable.

4. Update Utilities and Mailing Addresses
Notify your utility companies, banks, and subscriptions of your new address. Don’t forget about Wi-Fi, electricity, gas, and streaming services. Ask neighbors to collect any mail that arrives during the transition.

On Moving Day: Stay On Top of Things

5. Divide Tasks
Assign roles to family members or helpers—one person can manage the old home while another oversees the new location. Clear communication ensures a smooth flow of moving activities.

6. Supervise Loading and Unloading
Whether you’re using professional movers or friends, ensure items are handled carefully. Keep an eye on fragile and important belongings during the transfer.

7. Stay Fueled
Moving is physically demanding. Prepare snacks, drinks, and lunch for everyone to stay energized, especially during long or hot summer moves.

8. In With Movers
Confirm arrival times, weight limits, and special instructions for fragile items. Clear communication prevents surprises and keeps your move on schedule.

9. Supervise Carefully
Monitor the movers as they load and unload items. Ensure nothing is left behind, and check for potential damage before signing off on delivery.

Final Checks Before Leaving Your Old Home

10. Do a Final Walk-Through
Inspect closets, cabinets, and storage spaces to make sure nothing is left behind. Having someone else double-check is a smart safety net.

11. Clean the Home
Leave your old home clean and ready for the next occupants. Empty the fridge, sweep floors, and wipe down surfaces to leave a good impression.

12. Leave Behind Important Items
Keep instruction manuals, appliance guides, and even a small welcome note or gift for the new owners.

13. Lock Up
Ensure all doors and windows are secured. Take photos for documentation and leave keys with your realtor or in a lockbox if needed.
Settling Into Your New Home

14. Test Appliances and Utilities
Check that electricity, water, gas, and other utilities are working. Test appliances, toilets, and faucets to catch any issues early.

15. Make Adjustments
Before bringing in large furniture, plan closets, hang curtains, and protect floors with pads. Completing these steps now prevents headaches later.

16. Unpack Essentials First
Focus on necessities like toiletries, bedding, and kitchenware. Organize rooms gradually to make your new home functional from day one.

17. Explore Your New Neighborhood
Take some time to walk around and discover nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and emergency services. Getting familiar with your area helps you feel at home faster.

Moving day doesn’t have to be chaotic. By following these simple tips, you can stay organized and make the process easier from start to finish. If you’re planning a move in New York, Movers Not Shakers is here to help. Our experienced team will take care of everything from packing to unloading, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home. For more information or to schedule your move, visit us at moversnotshakers.com. Let us handle the hard work while you focus on your new beginning.