From Planning to Settling In

Sort and Declutter

Start by going through your home, room by room, and deciding what is coming with you and what you can part with. As you go, think about which items will need special packing or extra insurance coverage. Decluttering before a move is one of the best things you can do for yourself, not just because it reduces the volume of things to pack, but because it genuinely simplifies your life. Our downsizing guide offers practical strategies to help you navigate this process without feeling overwhelmed.

Set a Moving Budget

Put a pen to paper and map out your expected moving expenses so there are as few surprises as possible later. Typical costs include packing supplies, moving company fees, storage, and travel expenses. If you are relocating for work, check whether your employer covers any moving-related costs before you start spending.

Research Moving Companies

Take your time here. Look at reviews, verify licensing and insurance, check their experience with moves similar to yours, and get multiple estimates. Choosing the right moving company is one of the most important decisions you will make throughout this process.

Create a Moving File

Keep all of your receipts, estimates, and important documents organized in one place from the very beginning. This is especially important if your employer is covering relocation costs and you will need proof of expenses later.

Six Weeks Before Your Move

Order Your Supplies

Now is the time to stock up on moving boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and specialty containers. Wardrobe boxes, in particular, are worth every penny and something you will be glad you invested in.

Use Up What You Will Not Take

Start working through perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and anything else you do not plan to move. This is a practical way to reduce what needs to be packed while also cutting down on waste.

Take Measurements

Check the room dimensions at your new home and make sure your larger furniture pieces will actually fit through the doors and into the spaces you have in mind. Discovering this on moving day is a headache you do not need.

Lock In Your Mover

You have done your research; now it is time to commit. Confirm your moving date, costs, and all other details in writing so there are no misunderstandings as we get closer to the date.

One Month Before Your Move

Start Packing Early

Begin with the items you use infrequently but are not ready to discard. Packing these up early means less to deal with as moving day approaches. Our packing tips cover everything you need to know about doing this efficiently and safely.

Label Everything Clearly

Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in at your new home. Mark the boxes containing essentials you will need immediately after the move so they are easy to find when you are exhausted at the end of moving day.

Handle the Administrative Tasks

Head to your local post office or visit usps.gov to submit your change-of-address form. Notify your bank, credit card companies, and any other important institutions. Set up internet service at your new home around your moving date so you experience little to no gap in connectivity.

Plan for Valuables

Consider transporting your jewelry and other irreplaceable items yourself rather than putting them on the moving truck. A small, safe, secure bag that stays with you gives you peace of mind throughout the move.

A Few Days Before Your Move

Defrost Your Refrigerator

If your refrigerator is coming with you, empty, clean, and defrost it at least 24 hours before moving day. Double-check that it is yours to take, as some homes include appliances.

Confirm Everything With Your Movers

Reach out to your moving company to confirm their arrival time, your new home address, and any other details they need on the day. A quick confirmation call prevents a lot of unnecessary stress.

Prepare Payment

If you have not already arranged to pay by card, get a money order, cashier’s check, or cash ready for moving day. If your movers do a great job, a tip and some snacks or refreshments are always welcome.

Moving Day

Wake Up Early

There is no way around it. Even if everything is packed and organized, last-minute things always pop up. Give yourself enough time to tie up loose ends before your movers arrive.

Do a Final Walkthrough

Before the movers arrive, walk through every room one last time. Check cabinets, closets, storage spaces, the basement, and the attic for anything left behind. Once everything is loaded, do one final sweep before locking the door and heading out.

Be Present and Communicative

Walk your movers through the home when they arrive and flag any fragile items or pieces that need special handling. Stay available throughout the day in case they have questions, and keep in touch during transit so you have an idea of their estimated arrival time at your new home.

Direct the Unload

When the movers arrive at your new home, give them a walkthrough and let them know which rooms each box and piece of furniture belongs in. The clearer your direction, the less reorganizing you will have to do later.

Settling In After the Move

Once the movers have gone and the dust has settled, resist the urge to tackle everything at once. Unpack the essentials you need for that first evening, things like bedding, toiletries, and kitchen basics, and give yourself permission to rest. You have earned it.

From there, take things room by room and at a pace that feels manageable. Our full guide to settling in after a move walks you through how to get comfortable and organized in your new space without feeling overwhelmed.

Let Eyring Movers Take the Stress Out of Moving Day

The Eyring Movers team is passionate about making every move as smooth and stress-free as possible. From packing and unpacking to local and long-distance moves throughout the Cleveland area, we bring meticulous attention to detail and genuine care to every job we take on. Contact us today for a free moving quote and let us help you get from planning to settling in with confidence.