A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Virginia

The moving process doesn’t need to cause anxiety, and it feels much smoother when you plan ahead. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Virginia individuals and organizations since 1920. We’re here to give you the benefit of what we’ve learned, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Keep Documents in Order

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Gather all contracts and policies in one folder
• Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
• 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

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Started a keep pile
• Decide what to sell and put up ads or schedule a sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• List items for sale on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local apps
• Take photos and write descriptions for everything to be sold
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Set up tables and get cash ready for customers

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Find all your essential documents early
• 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

• Write down everything you’re moving
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Photograph valuable possessions for records
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Make hard copies or backups in case you need them

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
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Setting Up Your Utilities

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Double-check that services like gas or water are connected at the new home
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Book your start dates to avoid gaps in service
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Handling Secure Storage Before the Move

• Plan to visit the bank and empty any safe deposit boxes before a long-distance move
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Updating Your Mailing Info

• Let the post office know your new address so your mail gets forwarded
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Notifying Schools & Healthcare Providers

• Give notice to your children’s school and all your healthcare providers
• Ask about transferring any records you'll need at your new place

Planning for Kids and Pets

• Pack a bag with snacks, toys, and comfort items to keep them happy and occupied
• Make sure you have any medications or special items your child or pet might need for the day
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Scheduling Days Off for Your Move

• Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• 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

Getting to Know Your New Area

Planning Your New Space

• Sketch out room arrangements before moving day
• 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
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• 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

Building Access & Keys

• Gather every key, remote, and code you’ll need on moving day
• 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

• Double-check with both your old and new buildings about any move-in or move-out requirements
• Ask if you need to provide insurance certificates for the movers
• See if you should book parking or elevator slots in advance
• Confirm any paperwork or forms that need to be filled out ahead of time
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

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
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Managing Storage Before and After Moving

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Organize everything in storage for fast loading
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

Notifying Neighbors

• Let your neighbors know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
• Give them a heads-up if parking or shared spaces will be affected
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
• Put up barriers to hold your reserved parking if permitted

Managing Utility Shut-Off and Start-Up

• Make sure every utility is disconnected at your old home and connected at the new address
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Set aside items that you’ll carry yourself for added peace of mind
• Choose strong boxes for personal things and place them somewhere secure
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Gather up anything you've borrowed from friends, neighbors, or the library
• Drop off everything you’ve borrowed to the right owners

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Set up prescription transfers so nothing is missed
• Double-check you’re stocked with all necessary medicines

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Clear out any remaining items so nothing is left behind
• Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odor-free
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Confirm Moving Day Details

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Keep your mover's details easily accessible

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Keep contact numbers for the moving company, building managers, and emergency contacts
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Get Suitcases Packed

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

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

Final Declutter

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• 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

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• Make sure communication is clear for hand-offs and updates

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• 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

Arrange Help at Your New Home

• 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

Safely Empty and Clean Out the Refrigerator

• Clear out perishables and leftovers completely
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Make sure no moisture remains to avoid unpleasant smells

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• 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

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Alert movers to pieces that require extra attention or are not going

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• 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

• Do a final security sweep to close up the property
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• 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
• Share important details about the home’s systems or routines

At Your New Home

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Label doorways or rooms if it helps make things easier and faster

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Look for dents or scratches before the movers leave

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Take photos of any damaged items for your records

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Save these photos for your records in case there are any billing questions later

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• 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

• Let movers know your unpacking priorities at the start
• Give clear instructions on where you'd like things put away

• Sort out cardboard and plastic for easy removal
• See if your moving company can take the waste, or check for local recycling drop-offs

• Go online or visit the DMV to update licenses and registration info
• Follow local rules to make sure your car is properly registered
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Walk around and offer a friendly greeting
• A quick chat can go a long way toward feeling at home

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Keep this kit with you—not in the moving truck—to stay comfortable and prepared

• Photograph all wires and plugs so reassembly is easy
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Make sure you keep receiving mail at your new address
• Change your shipping details with every service you use

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Save these contacts in your phone and keep a printed copy handy in your new home

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 – Trusted by Virginia families and businesses alike since 1920
• Experience – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Affordable Results – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

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

Get Your Free Virginia Moving Quote or call 571-586-9384 right now!