A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Virginia

Moving can actually be simple, and it feels much smoother when you plan ahead. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Virginia renters, homeowners, and businesses move since 1920. We’re here to give you the benefit of what we’ve learned, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Use this checklist to make your move as easy as possible.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing Important Documents

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Add receipts for moving expenses, utility setup, and any repairs or cleaning
• Keep copies of your change-of-address confirmation and important contact numbers
• Make backup scans of crucial documents, just in case

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Set aside things you want to bring to your new place
• List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
• Arrange for junk removal or donation drop-offs
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Go through belongings and choose items to donate
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Give items to family, friends, or neighbors

Selling Unwanted Items

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Take photos and write descriptions for everything to be sold
• Schedule and organize your in-person sale
• Set up tables and get cash ready for customers

Important Documents

• Find all your essential documents early
• Gather insurance papers, financial information, and school records
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Have your documents handy for when you arrive

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Write down everything you’re moving
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Photos for Insurance

• Snap pictures of your most expensive things
• Save images to the cloud for insurance and condition records
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

• Plan meals to use up anything that won’t keep
• Dispose of chemicals and products movers won’t transport
• Make arrangements for things you can’t take in the truck

Managing Power, Water, and Other Services

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Set up start dates for all your utilities at the new address so everything's ready when you arrive
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Managing Banking and Storage

• Plan to visit the bank and empty any safe deposit boxes before a long-distance move
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Coordinate your access ahead of moving day
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Updating Your Mailing Info

• 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

Planning for Kids and Pets

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Time Off Work

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• 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

Preparing the Layout of Your New Place

• 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
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Carry important daily items in your pocket or purse
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Managing Entry and Exit

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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all requirements
• Check on required documents or proof of coverage
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Confirm any paperwork or forms that need to be filled out ahead of time
• Clarify when you’re allowed to move in or out

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)
• Arrange for a cleaning at your new place before you move in, so it's fresh and ready for your things
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• 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
• Pick who’s in charge of moving your stored belongings
• Inventory all stored goods for an easy move
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

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
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

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
• Mark the space with cones or signs the night before, if allowed, to save the spot for the truck

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• 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
• Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Prepare an Essentials Box

• 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
• Keep this essentials kit easily accessible during your move

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

Arranging Medications for Your Move

• 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

Unplug and Clean Appliances

• Disconnect all large kitchen and laundry appliances
• Clear out any remaining items so nothing is left behind
• Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odor-free
• Defrost the freezer to prevent leaks and damage during the move
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Look over your items one last time before moving day

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Contact the team to lock in the schedule
• Go over details or unique needs with your crew
• Make sure you have contact info handy for the moving team on the day

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Collect everything from contracts to checklists
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Get Suitcases Packed

• Set aside enough outfits, sleepwear, and hygiene products for the first few nights
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Make sure valuables stay with you, not in the moving truck

Last-Minute Purge

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

Set Aside Cash for the Big Day

• Withdraw enough cash for tips and on-the-go purchases

Double-Check Arrangements for Kids and Pets

• Reconfirm the schedule and drop-off times
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

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

• Arrange for a helper to greet service providers and deliveries
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Prepare Refrigerator

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Get Washing Machine Ready

• 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

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

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

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

• Put all access devices in a labeled spot for the next resident
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

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

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

• Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Snap pictures of all meter readings for reference
• 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

Get the Basics Out Right Away

• 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
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• 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
• If you've moved to a new state or city, register your car as required by local laws
• Fill out the paperwork so your furry friends are legal at your new address

• 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

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

• Set aside a go-bag with necessities you’ll want throughout the day
• Keep this kit with you—not in the moving truck—to stay comfortable and prepared

• Before unplugging your TV, computer, or entertainment center, take clear photos of the cable connections and setup
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Update your address with online shopping sites and any subscriptions

• 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 – Chosen by countless Virginia clients since 1920
• Professionalism – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Best Value – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Don't stress about your upcoming move – count on the professionals at Bayshore Moving and Storage to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Virginia Moving Quote or give us a ring at 571-556-6675 to get started!