Moving into a new home should feel like a fresh beginning, not a source of overwhelming stress. And what’s the secret ingredient for the stress-free moving potion? The answer is simple: thoughtful planning. With a clear 30-day plan, you can turn what often feels like a stressful whirlwind into a manageable process.
With that in mind, we’ve created this practical 30-day moving guide to help you stay organized, breathe easy, and embrace the journey. Apply these tips and you’ll see how soon you’ll be ready to enjoy your new place, instead of losing your mind at the last minute.
To make things simpler for you, we’ve arranged this list by separating it into four sections (4 weeks before you move, 3 weeks, and so on), so you can follow up step-by-step on what you need to be getting ready strategically 30 days before the big day and don’t miss anything. Because we know that when you move smart, you move with peace of mind. Let ‘s begin.
4 Weeks Before Moving:
Declutter and Purge
A clean move begins with a clean slate. So, before you even think about packing, start by decluttering your space and decide what goes away and what stays. By doing this, you can make sure of two things: Number 1. you’ll be reducing the number of boxes to move; and Number 2. (and most importantly) you’re taking to your new home only what really adds value to your life.
Now, moving is the perfect excuse to part ways with things that no longer serve you, but maybe could serve others. So, sort through your clothes, furniture, books, kitchenware, and miscellaneous items. Anything you haven’t used in the past year deserves a second look. You can either donate the items or sell them and get some extra cash. Worst case scenario, for the things that are no longer of use for anybody, you can recycle them or dispose of them. Less clutter means less chaos.
Begin the Packing Process as Soon as You Have Decluttered
Once you’ve identified what’s making the move with you, it’s time to begin packing. Waiting until the last minute only adds pressure: Packing early saves you time and helps you avoid the rush in the final days. Begin with items you rarely use and work your way up to everyday essentials. Use these tips:
Pro Tips for Packing:
Focus on One Room at a Time
Don’t try to pack up the whole house at once, that will only cost you energy and frustration by seeing all rooms turned into a mess. The secret is to tackle one space at a time. Start with one room, like your home office, the guest bedroom, or such, and complete it before moving to the next. This will keep things manageable for you, and you’ll be amazed how easy it will be.
Pack Non-Essential, Non-Daily-Used Items First
Start by boxing up things you won’t need in the next month, like books, non-important documents, photo albums, off-season clothing, etc. These items can be stored away now without affecting your daily routine, making the coming weeks lighter for you.
Clean Before You Pack
You probably won’t want to bring dust into your new home, right? Take time to clean everything before boxing it: wash and dry clothes, clean dishes, and remove dust from your appliances. This is especially helpful with kitchen utensils that can gather grease.
Be as Detailed as Possible When Labeling Your Boxes
A simple label like “studio” won’t help much when you’re looking for your laptop charger. Be specific: “Master bedroom: nightstand contents” or “Studio: desk setup.” This helps you and people who help you know exactly what’s inside, which makes things incredibly easier.
Use Vacuum Bags for Linens and Bedding
These bags save a remarkable amount of space and keep your linens clean and protected. Pillows, sheets, towels, and comforters can be reduced to a fraction of their size, making storage and transport easier.
Create a Change-of-Address Checklist
Gather all the services and companies that will need your new address. This includes your bank, credit card providers, utility companies, healthcare providers, online shopping accounts, and of course, the U.S. Postal Service.
By staying ahead of this task, you avoid missing important mail or service disruptions. Create a list so you can track updates as they’re completed.
3 Weeks Before Moving:
Notify Your Insurance Company to Transfer the Home Insurance to the New Address
For no reason, nearly 88% of U.S. homeowners have home insurance: insurance coverage matters. Reach out to your provider to update your policy and ensure that your new residence is protected from day one. If you’re purchasing a DCR home, your agent can guide you through any specific coverage needs for new construction.
Start Your Research on a Reliable Transporter or Moving Company
Now is the time to secure your moving support. Ask people for recommendations, compare reviews online, and request quotes from renowned companies. If you’re opting for a DIY move, reserve your rental vehicle well in advance with a trusted ally. You don’t want to be stressed if the moving day arrives and you’re stood up by an irresponsible company.
We’ve seen firsthand how the right movers can make all the difference, so don’t rush this step because your comfort depends highly on it.
2 Weeks Before Moving:
Transfer Internet, TV, and Utilities
Ideally, have utilities turned on a day before you move in to avoid any service gaps. To make sure of this, contact your current and future service providers to schedule disconnection and activation. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, TV, and waste services.
Wash Curtains and Rugs and Pack Them
Large fabrics like curtains and rugs are easier to clean now than after a long move. Launder them, let them air dry completely, and then pack them carefully to avoid musty smells. Use protective coverings to protect them during transport.
Pack All the Bare Minimum
Now’s the time to start living out of a suitcase or a few essentials boxes. Set aside what you’ll need over the next two weeks, like clothes, toiletries, and basic kitchenware. Everything else can be boxed and labeled. This makes things simpler for your final packing step.
Book the Transporter or Professional Movers You’ve Selected
With your research complete, confirm your booking. Finalize all details, including arrival time, number of movers, etc. Check if you’re moving into a community with restricted access or reserved loading zones, so you can inform your transporter in advance.
H2: One Week Before Moving:
Wash Your Furniture or Hire an Upholstery Cleaning Service
Your couch and chairs deserve to start fresh too. Give it a good wipe-down or hire a professional cleaning service to do a deep clean. This way, you bring clean items into your new place.
Arrange and Pack a Set of Outfits to Wear During the First Week After You Move
Unpacking can take longer than expected, so it’s a good move to prepare a “first-week wardrobe” with enough outfits to carry you through those chaotic first days. This helps a lot if you have to go to work during that first week, so you make sure to include footwear and any necessary accessories.
Double Check the Moving Date with Your Transporter or Movers
Yes, you’ve already booked the service, but re-confirmation doesn’t hurt anybody, especially if you note that nobody likes last-minute unpleasant surprises on their moving date. To avoid them, reach out to confirm all details with the professionals you’ve hired.
Week of the Move:
Pack Essentials, Everyday Items, and Everything That’s Left
By now, most of your home should be ready to go. Focus on final items like toiletries, kitchen tools, etc. Remember to pack essential boxes separately from everything else (always clearly labeled and easily accessible.)
Pack an Emergency Supplies Bag
Every move needs a go-to bag for unexpected situations. Include first-aid supplies, paper towels, a utility knife, scissors, tape, a flashlight, your phone charger: whatever you think you’ll need or might come in handy during the first hours or night.
If You Have Pets, Get Someone Who Can Take Care of Them in the First Hours of the Moving Day
Moving day is noisy and potentially stressful for pets. Arrange for someone you trust or for a pet sitter to look after them during the busiest hours. Keeping them safe and calm helps you focus on the move without distractions or worries.
Finally, Make a Deep Cleaning of the New House
Before you unpack or place furniture, give your new home a deep clean. Clean the floors, cabinets, kitchen, bathrooms, and all surfaces: a final once-over never hurts.
At DCR Homes, we know that when you buy a home, you can feel anxious because of everything that needs to be taken care of, before and after you move. But we like to emphasize that walking through the doors of a new home always means a new beginning, full of opportunities for creating nice memories. If you see it like that, you’ll be surprised how fast the moving stage passes. That’s why our team is committed to creating spaces that feel like home from day one, and why we want your transition to be as smooth and joyful as possible. So don’t forget to follow this step-by-step guide, it will surely make the difference to start fresh in your new space.
