A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Rockville

Moving doesn't have to be stressful, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Rockville individuals and organizations since 1920. Now we’re sharing some of that experience with you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Gather all contracts and policies in one folder
• Collect all invoices and setup records
• Have address update info and emergency contacts ready to go
• Choose a safe but handy spot for your paperwork

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
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Donation Pickups

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Sell Extra Stuff Before You Move

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Locate birth certificates, passports, and medical records
• Collect all non-move-related but important paperwork
• 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
• Mark which items need gentle handling or extra attention
• 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
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

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
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Managing Power, Water, and Other Services

• Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• 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
• Track appointments and reference numbers for backup

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• 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
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Updating Your Mailing Info

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Give notice to your children’s school and all your healthcare providers
• Arrange for academic and medical records to move with you

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Make sure you have any medications or special items your child or pet might need for the day
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• Double-check that pets have updated ID tags and are microchipped with your new address

Planning for Work Absences

• Request time off work for moving day, and for packing or unpacking if you think you'll need it
• Keep colleagues in the loop for smooth coverage
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Getting to Know Your New Area

Planning Your New Space

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Take pictures of each room in your new place to help you plan the layout
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Keeping Your Most Important Items Safe

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Pack a small bag with chargers, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes for each family member
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Make sure nothing gets left behind for entry or exit
• 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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all requirements
• Ask if you need to provide insurance certificates for the movers
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Confirm any paperwork or forms that need to be filled out ahead of time
• 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)
• Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

Storage Access or Transfer

• Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• 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

Letting Others Know About Your Move

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

Utility Arrangements

• 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
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Keeping Important Items Safe

• 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
• Add a prominent “Do Not Move” note so they stay with you

Essentials Box/Bag

• 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
• Carry your necessities in a spot where you can find them fast

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Arranging Medications for Your Move

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Double-check you’re stocked with all necessary medicines

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Empty all food and contents from these appliances
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Defrost the freezer to prevent leaks and damage during the move
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• 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
• Look over your items one last time before moving day

Review Details for Move Day

• Contact the team to lock in the schedule
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Collect everything from contracts to checklists
• 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
• Store all paperwork and small essentials for easy access

Pack Suitcases with Essentials

• 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

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Find and assemble all the documents you can’t afford to lose like passports and birth certificates
• Set aside money, precious items, and family heirlooms
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Getting Rid of Unwanted Items

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• Check closets, drawers, and storage areas for forgotten things

Set Aside Cash for the Big Day

• Take out cash for tipping your movers, buying snacks, or handling any last-minute expenses or emergencies

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Double-check arrangements for child or pet care on moving day
• Confirm times, drop-off/pick-up details, and share your contact info with the caregiver

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Clear out every trash can and recycling bin so nothing gets left behind
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

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
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Make sure no moisture remains to avoid unpleasant smells

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Sanitize the inside to remove soap and residue
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

Wrapping Up 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

• Accompany the movers during their inspection to ensure nothing is missed
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• 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

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Switch off all electronics and utilities

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Open every compartment for hidden belongings

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

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• Do a quick walk-through to make sure everything is ready for unloading

• Use your floor plan or notes to show the movers exactly where you want each piece of furniture and each box
• 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
• Quickly review each item for problems before accepting delivery

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

• Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Store pictures as proof for future utility claims

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Start with Must-Have Items

• Start by unpacking the things you'll need right away, like bedding, toiletries, and basic kitchen items
• Make the beds so everyone can rest easily

• If you arranged for the movers to help unpack, let them know which rooms or boxes to start with
• Explain exactly where to place your belongings as you unpack

• Break down boxes and gather packing paper and bubble wrap
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
• Follow local rules to make sure your car is properly registered
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbors
• Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away

• Leave a review or feedback for your moving company to help others and let the team know how they did

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

• 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

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Have the visual guide ready so you don’t guess which wire goes where

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Add special items for comfort or reassurance

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Change your shipping details with every service you use

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Rockville Move?

If you need trustworthy moving help in Rockville, Bayshore Moving and Storage is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Dependability – Relied on by countless Rockville customers for since 1920
• Experience – Every move is managed by skilled and careful staff
• Smart Savings – Our goal is to keep your moving costs as low as possible

Relax and take the stress out of your move – trust the moving team from Bayshore 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 Rockville Moving Quote or give us a ring at 301-417-5816 to get started!