A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Falls Church

Moving doesn't have to be stressful, and it feels much smoother when you plan ahead. At Shoreview Moving and Storage, we've quite literally helped thousands of Falls Church 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. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Start an organized folder for move paperwork
• 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
• Store this folder somewhere easy to access, and consider making digital backups of the most important papers

Decluttering

• Started a keep pile
• Decide what to sell and put up ads or schedule a sale
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Donation Pickups

• Select gently used things for charity
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Share useful items with your social circle

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• 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

Important Documents

• Find all your essential documents early
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Place all important documents together in a secure, easy-to-find spot

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Make a detailed list of all belongings
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Upload all images to a secure storage account
• 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
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Make arrangements for things you can’t take in the truck

Managing Power, Water, and Other Services

• List out contacts for all necessary utility services
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• Call each company to arrange your move-out timing
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• 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
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Do a final check to make sure nothing gets left behind in storage

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

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Arrange for academic and medical records to move with you

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• 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
• Arrange care and confirm schedules for pets in advance
• Double-check that pets have updated ID tags and are microchipped with your new address

Time Off Work

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• Don’t forget to arrange for WiFi at your new home

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Organizing and Mapping Out Your Home

• Sketch out room arrangements before moving day
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Hold on to passports, special keepsakes, and sensitive files
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Make sure nothing gets left behind for entry or exit
• Organize every entry tool in one place and label clearly

4 Weeks Before Moving

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

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• 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

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
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• If you have items in a storage unit, contact the facility to arrange access on or before moving day
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• 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
• Let neighbors know if your move may impact their routine
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Arranging Parking for the Truck

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• 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
• Contact providers ahead of time to coordinate changes in service

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Start packing personal items you want to move yourself, like medications, keepsakes, and important documents
• 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
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Returning Borrowed Items

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Drop off everything you’ve borrowed to the right owners

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

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• 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
• Towel dry all appliances to prevent mess, mold, or rust

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• 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
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• 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
• 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

Get Suitcases Packed

• Set aside enough outfits, sleepwear, and hygiene products for the first few nights
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• 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

Final Declutter

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• 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

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Confirm all bins are empty and clean

Arrange Help at Your New Home

• 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
• Make sure someone is available to answer the door and supervise any set-up or installations

Prepare Refrigerator

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Let the fridge and freezer thaw out by airing them
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

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
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

At Your Old Home

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Ensure every container is tagged for correct placement
• 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
• Power down everything before you lock up

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

• Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
• Share important details about the home’s systems or routines

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• Mark rooms or label doors to speed up the process
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• Mark off belongings to verify nothing is missing
• Quickly review each item for problems before accepting delivery

• If you notice any damage or problems, make a note of it on the moving paperwork before you sign anything
• 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

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

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

Unpack Essentials First

• Start by unpacking the things you'll need right away, like bedding, toiletries, and basic kitchen items
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

• If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
• Give clear instructions on where you'd like things put away

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• Ask your movers if they offer packing material removal, or find out where you can recycle or dispose of them locally

• Update your address on your driver's license, car registration, and voter registration
• If you've moved to a new state or city, register your car as required by local laws
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbors
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Post your thoughts online to assist other customers

• Collect everything related to your move for easy reference
• Keep paperwork in case you need to reference it later

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Don’t pack these items in the truck—keep them handy for comfort and emergencies

• Before unplugging your TV, computer, or entertainment center, take clear photos of the cable connections and setup
• Refer to your images for a hassle-free setup

• 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

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Research and save phone numbers you might need urgently
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Falls Church Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Falls Church, Shoreview Moving and Storage stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Reputation – Trusted by Falls Church families and businesses alike since 1920
• Experience – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Smart Savings – Our goal is to keep your moving costs as low as possible

Don't stress about your upcoming move – trust the moving team from Shoreview Moving and Storage to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Falls Church Moving Quote or call 703-293-5089 to get started!