A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Pennsylvania

Moving can actually be simple, and it feels much smoother when you plan ahead. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Pennsylvania individuals and organizations since 1920. We’re here to give you the benefit of what we’ve learned, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Organizing Important Documents

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Gather all contracts and policies in one folder
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• Keep copies of your change-of-address confirmation and important contact numbers
• 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
• 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

Arrange Donation of Unwanted Items

• Select gently used things for charity
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Keep everything to donate in a designated area
• Share useful items with your social circle

Selling Unwanted Items

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Have supplies on hand for your garage sale

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

• 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

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Circle or tag pieces that should be wrapped or boxed carefully

Documenting Your Valuables

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

Utility Arrangements

• Research providers for electricity, water, internet, and trash at both addresses
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• 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
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Book an appointment with your bank or storage manager
• Prepare a safe method for moving critical paperwork or jewelry
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• Make sure your mail is redirected by notifying the postal service
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Inform teachers, medical professionals, and veterinarians of your move
• Ask about transferring any records you'll need at your new place

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Prepare everything for their comfort and health
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Ensure all pets have current information on identification

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
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Essential Stops Near Your New Home

Preparing the Layout of Your New Place

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
• Take pictures of each room in your new place to help you plan the layout
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
• Clarify when you’re allowed to move in or out

Cleaning Arrangements

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Have your new home cleaned before bringing in boxes
• 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
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• Make a list of what's in storage and label boxes or items for easy identification
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Notifying Neighbors

• 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

Parking Permits/Street Reservations

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Secure your parking area in advance with easy to see markers or cones

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
• Contact providers ahead of time to coordinate changes in service

Packing Personal Items

• 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
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• 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

• Round up all borrowed goods from others or community resources
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

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

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Clear out any remaining items so nothing is left behind
• Sanitize interiors so your appliances stay odor-free
• 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

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Wrap breakables securely to avoid damage
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Review Details for Move Day

• Reach out to verify what time your movers will show up
• Go over details or unique needs with your crew
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Make sure keys and passes for every property are on hand
• Keep contact numbers for the moving company, building managers, and emergency contacts
• 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

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Find and assemble all the documents you can’t afford to lose like passports and birth certificates
• Round up everything valuable or sentimental
• Keep these items in a secure bag or folder that will travel with you-not with the movers

Last-Minute Purge

• 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

Prepare Cash for Moving 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
• Confirm times, drop-off/pick-up details, and share your contact info with the caregiver

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Clear out every trash can and recycling bin so nothing gets left behind
• 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
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Clear out perishables and leftovers completely
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

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

At Your Old Home

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Alert movers to pieces that require extra attention or are not going

• 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

• 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

• Do a final security sweep to close up the property
• Switch off all electronics and utilities

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

• Organize keys and remotes for a smooth handover
• Share important details about the home’s systems or routines

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Do a quick walk-through to make sure everything is ready for unloading

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• 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
• 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

• Think about rekeying or upgrading for your safety
• Get permission from the property manager before making changes

Get the Basics Out Right Away

• Get out your pillows, sheets, and daily supplies as a top priority
• Set up beds and make sure everyone has what they need for the first night

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Sort out cardboard and plastic for easy removal
• Ask your movers if they offer packing material removal, or find out where you can recycle or dispose of them locally

• 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

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

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• 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
• 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

• 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
• Change your shipping details with every service you use

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Pennsylvania Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Pennsylvania, Bayshore Moving and Storage is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Dependability – Relied on by countless Pennsylvania customers for since 1920
• Experience – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Affordable Results – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Take the worry out of moving day – count on the professionals at Bayshore Moving and Storage to handle everything while you focus on starting your new chapter. We put our heart into every move!

Get Your Free Pennsylvania Moving Quote or give us a ring at 442-379-0096 today!