A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Dulles

The moving process doesn’t need to cause anxiety, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Shoreview Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Dulles 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

• 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
• Collect all invoices and setup records
• 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

• Go through belongings and choose items to donate
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Keep everything to donate in a designated area
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Important Documents

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Have your documents handy for when you arrive

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Make a detailed list of all belongings
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Documenting Your Valuables

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Dispose of chemicals and products movers won’t transport
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

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
• 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
• Double-check your appointments and keep a list of confirmation numbers, just in case

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• 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

Change of Address

• Let the post office know your new address so your mail gets forwarded
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Notifying Schools & Healthcare Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Child & Pet Care

• 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
• 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
• 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

Valuables & Essentials

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and gate codes for both your old and new homes
• Organize every entry tool in one place and label clearly

4 Weeks Before Moving

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

• Double-check with both your old and new buildings about any move-in or move-out requirements
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Arrange for a cleaning at your new place before you move in, so it's fresh and ready for your things
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• Reserve your new unit and make sure you know when it’s open

Letting Others Know About Your Move

• Tell neighbors when you’ll be moving so they’re prepared
• Give them a heads-up if parking or shared spaces will be affected
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• 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

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Use sturdy boxes or bags for these items and keep them in a safe spot
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

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
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Borrowed Items

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Call your pharmacy and arrange to have any prescriptions transferred to a pharmacy near your new home
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Finish Packing Items You Don't Need Daily

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Select tough boxes and write clear descriptions on each
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Review Details for Move Day

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Go over details or unique needs with your crew
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Make sure keys and passes for every property are on hand
• Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
• 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
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Gather Up Valuables and Important Documents

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Last-Minute Purge

• 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

Prepare Cash for Moving Day

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

Confirm Child or Pet Care

• Reconfirm the schedule and drop-off times
• Confirm times, drop-off/pick-up details, and share your contact info with the caregiver

Empty All Trash and Recycle Bins

• Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
• Make sure nothing is left behind and everything is ready for the next resident

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• Ask a friend or family member to be at your new home to accept deliveries or let in utility technicians if you can't be there yourself
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Prepare Refrigerator

• Take out everything from both compartments
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
• Let it air out so there’s no dampness left
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Allow extra time for remaining dampness to disappear

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

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Watch as boxes and furniture are loaded onto the truck to ensure nothing is missed or left behind

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• Switch off all electronics and utilities

• Inspect every nook and cranny for stray items
• Peek in unlikely places for things you may have missed

• Organize keys and remotes for a smooth handover
• Leave a note or instructions if needed (for mail, trash day, or anything special about the house)

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• 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
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• Keep track of boxes as they’re delivered
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• 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

• Think about rekeying or upgrading for your safety
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Unpack Essentials First

• Open up boxes with your most-used essentials first
• Set up beds and make sure everyone has what they need for the first night

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Explain exactly where to place your belongings as you unpack

• Sort out cardboard and plastic for easy removal
• Ask your movers if they offer packing material removal, or find out where you can recycle or dispose of them locally

• Go online or visit the DMV to update licenses and registration info
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away

• Post your thoughts online to assist other customers

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• Hold onto these for your records or in case you can claim moving expenses on your taxes

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Make sure everyone has sleepwear, toothbrushes, and clean towels
• Add special items for comfort or reassurance

• Make sure you keep receiving mail at your new address
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Dulles Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Dulles, Shoreview Moving and Storage sets the standard for value and customer care.

• Dependability – Trusted by Dulles families and businesses alike since 1920
• Expertise – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Smart Savings – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Relax and take the stress out of your move – let the experts at Shoreview Moving and Storage handle everything while you focus on starting your new chapter. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Dulles Moving Quote or call 703-570-1530 to get started!