A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Virginia

The moving process doesn’t need to cause anxiety, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Virginia renters, homeowners, and businesses move since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Keep Documents in Order

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• 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
• Arrange for junk removal or donation drop-offs
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Arrange Donation of Unwanted Items

• Select gently used things for charity
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Have supplies on hand for your garage sale

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Collect all non-move-related but important paperwork
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Make a detailed list of all belongings
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Snap pictures of your most expensive things
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

Using Up Restricted Items

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Make arrangements for things you can’t take in the truck

Setting Up Your Utilities

• Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
• Double-check that services like gas or water are connected at the new home
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Set date to empty or move any storage units
• Book an appointment with your bank or storage manager
• Decide on a secure way to move sensitive or pricey items
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• 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

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Ask about transferring any records you'll need at your new place

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Bring entertainment, snacks, and favorite things for the trip
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Ensure all pets have current information on identification

Time Off Work

• Request time off work for moving day, and for packing or unpacking if you think you'll need it
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Tie up loose ends before you leave for moving day
• Don’t forget to arrange for WiFi at your new home

Getting to Know Your New Area

Planning Your New Space

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Building Access & Keys

• Collect all spare keys, garage door openers, and gate codes for both your old and new homes
• Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

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
• Check on required documents or proof of coverage
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

Cleaning Arrangements

• Book a cleaning service for your old home after you move out, so it's ready for the next person (and to help get your deposit back)
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Storage Access or Transfer

• If you have items in a storage unit, contact the facility to arrange access on or before moving day
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• Reserve your new unit and make sure you know when it’s open

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• Let your neighbors know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• 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

• Double-check that all your utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, trash) are scheduled to be turned off at your old place and turned on at your new one
• Contact providers ahead of time to coordinate changes in service

Packing Personal Items

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Essentials Box/Bag

• Prepare a go-bag with everything for your first nights in the new house
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Gather up anything you've borrowed from friends, neighbors, or the library
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Set up prescription transfers so nothing is missed
• Make sure you have enough medication to last through the move, just in case there are any delays

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
• Towel dry all appliances to prevent mess, mold, or rust

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Pack everything you won’t use right away
• Select tough boxes and write clear descriptions on each
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Review Details for Move Day

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Keep your mover's details easily accessible

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Organize everything in a folder or envelope that's easy to carry and access on moving day

Pack Suitcases with Essentials

• 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

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Find and assemble all the documents you can’t afford to lose like passports and birth certificates
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Last-Minute Purge

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Check closets, drawers, and storage areas for forgotten things

Have Spending Money Ready

• Keep cash on hand for anything you might need quickly

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

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

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

Arrange Help at Your New Home

• Arrange for a helper to greet service providers and deliveries
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

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

Get Washing Machine Ready

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

At Your Old Home

• Stay available to answer any questions and give directions to the movers as they work
• Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Observe the move-out process to prevent mistakes

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Inspect every nook and cranny for stray items
• Open every compartment for hidden belongings

• 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)

At Your New Home

• Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
• 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
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Create visual evidence for claims if needed

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Save these photos for your records in case there are any billing questions later

• Consider changing the locks or getting new keys made for extra peace of mind
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Unpack Essentials First

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

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

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• 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
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Walk around and offer a friendly greeting
• Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• 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
• Add special items for comfort or reassurance

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Make a list of key emergency numbers for your new area—local police, fire department, nearest hospital, and a 24-hour pharmacy
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Virginia Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Virginia, Bayshore Moving and Storage sets the standard for value and customer care.

• Dependability – Relied on by countless Virginia customers for since 1920
• Expertise – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Affordable Results – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Take the worry out of moving day – let the experts at Bayshore Moving and Storage take care of every detail so you can start fresh. We put our heart into every move!

Get Your Free Virginia Moving Quote or phone our team at 571-583-5402 right now!