Essential Moving Tips for Local Residential Moves

Whether it is a short local move or long distance move, to ensure a positive experience with minimal stress, make sure to begin planning as soon as possible at least five weeks prior to the move.

Moving can be a simple and quick task if you get it done the right way. Remember that the most important tip is to plan ahead. This will give you and the moving company a lot of time to prepare. Start making a moving checklist that will include everything you need to do before and during the move. Don't forget your bills and certain expenses; they may easily be overlooked in the process.

Set Your Budget

Even though moving might be expensive, making a budget can help you move for much less. Whether you can afford a full-service move or a DIY move will depend in part on your budget. Your move won't cost you more than you can afford if you have a reasonable moving budget.

The ideal moving method is the one that fits your needs and your financial situation. Compare moving company costs and compare them with a cost of renting a moving truck to determine which option is the most affordable.

To make your budgeting more precise, consider the hidden costs of moving. These can include cleaning fees, deposits for utilities at your new home, or even take-out meals during busy moving days. Research the average costs in your area for these services. For instance, a cleaning service might cost around $200-$400 for a standard-sized home. By accounting for these expenses, you can avoid unexpected financial surprises.

To refine your budget, keep these extra costs in mind: • Moving Insurance: Basic coverage is often included, but full-value protection costs extra. For a $10,000 move, this could add $100–$500.
• Tipping Movers: Standard tips range from $5 per mover for small jobs to $20 per mover for large moves.
• Temporary Storage Fees: If you need storage between moving out and moving in, expect to pay $50–$300 per month.
• Travel Expenses for Long-Distance Moves: If you're driving to your new home, plan for fuel, lodging, and food.

Ways to Save Money
• Get Free Moving Boxes: Check grocery stores, liquor stores, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
• Move During Off-Peak Times: The cheapest times to move are mid-month and weekdays in the fall or winter.
• Negotiate with Movers: Some moving companies offer discounts if you’re flexible with your move date.

Estimated Moving Costs
• Studio Apartment: $500–$1,500 (local) / $1,500–$3,500 (long-distance)
• Three-Bedroom Home: $1,500–$5,000 (local) / $4,000–$10,000 (long-distance)

Hire a Mover or DIY

You'll be able to decide whether to hire movers or do it yourself once you've established your budget. If you plan to hire movers, now is the time to compare the best movers. Begin by asking friends and family for recommendations. Before making a choice, compare quotations from various businesses.

Get prices on equipment and trunk rentals if you're doing a DIY move. Additionally, enlist the assistance of friends and family to help you load and pack.

When weighing the decision between hiring movers and a DIY move, consider the time and effort required for each. For example, a professional moving service might charge $80-$100 per hour, but they can significantly reduce your workload and moving time. On the other hand, a DIY move, while cheaper, requires more time and physical effort. Assess your personal capacity and time constraints to make an informed decision.

Safety Considerations
• Moving requires lifting heavy items, which can cause injuries. Hiring movers may be safer if you have back issues or limited mobility. They know how to handle large furniture and move through tight spaces without damage.

Avoiding Moving Scams
• No large upfront payments: Reputable movers ask for payment after delivery.
• Verify FMCSA registration: U.S. movers should have a USDOT number.
• Check for a real business address: Avoid movers with no physical location or online presence.

Quick Decision Guide
• Go DIY if you have a small load, friends to help, and a tight budget.
• Hire movers if you're short on time, moving heavy furniture, or going long-distance.

Unclutter Before Your Move

Think about the space in your new home before you move. The move is an excellent opportunity to have a clear-out. Get rid of all unwanted and junk items. Have a yard sale or give it to your local charities or family members. Make a list of new items you may need in your new home.

The best way to ensure that a charity will take up large donations like furniture is to schedule a pickup in advance. To avoid worrying about how you're going to carry anything, look through this list of charities that will pick up your donations.

In addition to decluttering, consider the layout and dimensions of your new home. Measure large furniture to ensure it fits in the new space. This step can prevent the hassle of moving items that won't fit or suit your new home. For instance, if your new living room is 15x20 feet, ensure your sectional sofa comfortably fits within these dimensions.

Decluttering Strategies

• KonMari Method: Keep only items that bring joy, focusing on emotional attachment rather than practicality. It is best for clothes, books, and sentimental items but less ideal for tools or paperwork.

• Four-Box Method: Sort items into Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash to simplify decisions. Adding a Repurpose box can help reduce waste.

• One-Year Rule: If you haven’t used something in a year, consider letting it go. Seasonal items are exceptions, but this rule helps limit clutter.

• Swedish Death Cleaning: Declutter over time to avoid leaving unnecessary items for family members to handle later. Keep what truly matters and clear out the rest.

Estimating Moving Costs by Weight

Movers charge by hour or weight, depending on the move type:

• Local Moves (Billed by the Hour): Since movers charge by time, working efficiently can save money. Declutter before packing to speed up the process. Pack and label everything before movers arrive to avoid delays. Disassemble furniture in advance and place boxes near the exit for faster loading. If possible, schedule your move on a weekday or mid-month to get lower rates.

• Long-Distance Moves (Billed by Weight):
Moving costs depend on weight, so reducing bulk can save money. Sell, donate, or recycle heavy items before the move. Consider replacing bulky furniture after arrival instead of paying to transport it. Use lightweight packing materials like vacuum-sealed bags for clothing. If shipping appliances, remove detachable parts like trays or shelves. Get a weight-based estimate in advance and compare movers to find the best price.

Additional Cost Factors:
• Bulky Items: Pianos, safes, and gym equipment may have extra fees.
• Disassembly & Reassembly: Some movers charge to take apart and set up furniture.
• Storage Fees: Short-term storage ranges from $50–$300 per month, depending on size.
• Hidden Fees: Extra charges may apply for stairs, elevators, or long distances from the truck to your home.

Where to Donate?
• Goodwill & Salvation Army: Accept clothing, small furniture, and electronics. Some locations offer free pickup for bulk donations.
• Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Accept large furniture, appliances, and building materials like cabinets, sinks, and countertops.
• Local Shelters & Nonprofits: Many accept bedding, kitchen items, and toiletries. Some also take work attire, toys, and personal care products.
• Libraries & Schools: Often welcome books, educational materials, and art supplies.

Tech Recycling Programs:
• Best Buy & Staples take old electronics.
• Cell Phones for Soldiers repurposes used phones for military members.

Moving Costs: City vs. Rural Areas

The cost of moving depends on your destination. City moves tend to be more expensive due to high demand, parking restrictions, and limited building access, which may require extra labor or equipment. Rural moves can have lower labor costs but may involve higher fuel expenses and fewer moving company options.

For example, hiring movers in New York City could cost $1,000–$2,500 for a local move due to tolls and parking fees. The same move might cost $500–$1,500 in a rural town. For long-distance moves, fuel costs and travel time can increase expenses, especially in rural areas.

State-Specific Moving Guides

Each state has its own costs, regulations, and requirements for moving. Before moving, research details about your destination, like available moving companies, state taxes, and housing costs. Use MoversCorp to find movers and helpers near you for an easier move. Our platform helps you compare services and prices to find the best deal for your location.

Relocation Grants & Incentives

Some states and cities offer financial incentives to attract new residents. These programs help grow local economies, fill job gaps, and increase the population.

Vermont’s Remote Worker Grant reimburses moving expenses for remote workers who relocate. Tulsa Remote in Oklahoma gives remote workers $10,000 and coworking space access to move there.

Some states target certain professionals. West Virginia’s Ascend WV program provides up to $12,000 in relocation aid and free outdoor activities. Kansas’ Rural Opportunity Zones pay up to $15,000 in student loan aid for new residents in rural areas. Big cities like Baltimore also offer homebuying aid, like the Buying Into Baltimore program, which gives $5,000 for a home purchase.

If you're moving, check if your destination offers relocation grants, tax breaks, or homebuyer aid. These incentives can lower moving costs, ease financial strain, and help you settle into your new community. Also, look for programs aimed at teachers, healthcare workers, or recent grads.

Pick a Moving Day

Summer is the moving industry's peak season, especially the months' beginning and end. If you are planning to use professional moving services, get several moving quotes to help you better estimate the price of your move. Book the movers as soon as you know the moving date, just to be sure that the movers are available on the day you want to move. If you are moving locally, try to move on a weekday, it may even be cheaper than moving during a weekend. If you are planning on Do-It-Yourself move, make all rental arrangements ahead of time.

Consider the local traffic patterns and weather forecasts when choosing your moving day. For example, in urban areas, avoiding peak traffic hours can save time and reduce stress. Additionally, check the weather forecast for your moving day to avoid rain or extreme temperatures, which can complicate the moving process.

Gather Moving Boxes

It's time to buy moving boxes and packing supplies now that you have a clearer idea of how much stuff you need to move. Purchase extra moving boxes than you anticipate needing. The last thing you want is to run out on packing day and have to search for or buy more. That will squander time and add to the stress.

consider the specific types needed for different items when gathering boxes. For instance, wardrobe boxes for clothes can prevent wrinkling and make unpacking easier. Also, look for specialized boxes for fragile items like dishes or electronics. These often have extra padding and support to protect your valuables during the move.

Start Packing Early

In an ideal world, you'd be aware of a move weeks or even months in advance. Pack the goods you don't use, followed by off-season clothing. Winter jackets, as well as probably books and other sporadic items, can be packed in advance if you are moving in the summer. When it comes time to move, many things will already be prepared, reducing your stress.

Start packing early and attempt to finish it before the movers arrive to load the truck because moving day will be busy enough. You must maintain momentum by ensuring that all things are loaded onto the truck.

Research Movers

Get at least three quotes and read customer reviews. While you don't have to choose a company immediately, you should consider your possibilities. We've already done part of the research for you by listing the top movers for different types of moves on our platform.

When researching movers, check their licensing and insurance status. For instance, in the U.S., check if they are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This step ensures that you hire a legitimate and insured company, providing peace of mind during the move.

Change Your Address

Notify your post office, credit card companies, hospitals, banks, insurance companies, etc. about your move. Transfer your school and medical records. Discontinue your gas, electric, TV, water, phone, newspaper and internet services.

To arrange service at your new home, contact your utility providers at least 2 weeks in advance. You don't want to discover that the hot water or power isn't working when you get there.

Beyond the basics, remember to update your address for online shopping accounts, subscription services, and memberships. This step is often overlooked but ensures that future deliveries and communications are correctly routed to your new address.

Pack Valuables

If you hire professional movers, they can pack everything for you, which is an optional service. However, you should pack all your important paperwork and all high-value items yourself. Remove and pack all valuable items yourself, such as jewelry, legal documents, antiques, liquor, etc. Most of the movers will not take those items and, even if they do unknowingly, they will not be responsible for such items. Some moving companies have restrictions on flammable and hazardous products such as fireworks, propane tanks, cleaning fluids, acids, chemistry sets, ammunition, etc. If you have children, have them pack their toys.

For high-value items like artwork or antiques, consider additional insurance coverage. Standard moving insurance may not cover the full value of these items. Contact your insurance provider to discuss options for supplemental coverage, ensuring full protection for your most valuable possessions.

Put Together Essential Kit

Your first night in a new home can feel overwhelming, but having a basic kit ready will help you stay organized and calm. After moving, keep all necessities within reach. If you're moving with a young child, pack extra clothes, baby food, diapers, and comfort items like a favorite blanket or pacifier to help them adjust. A small nightlight can make the new space feel safer for your child.

Your kit should also include essential tools. This helps assemble furniture, quick repairs, or open stubborn moving boxes. Include a screwdriver, utility knife, pliers, hammer, and measuring tape. If your home needs quick fixes, add a stud finder, adjustable wrench, and duct tape. A flashlight or headlamp helps when setting up in dim areas, so you don’t struggle in an unfamiliar space.

Clean Appliances

Clean out your refrigerator and freezer well before moving them. Keep the doors open to keep the air circulating before you move. If you are moving yourself, don't load appliances on their sides; they can cause damage if they're not kept upright.

Drain fuel from any lawnmowers and other machinery. If you plan to take liquids with you, place them in individual waterproof bags or jars.

Prepare Children

If you are moving with children, show them around the new house before you move in and answer their questions. Children may react to moving in different ways. After the move, introduce yourself and your kids to your new neighbors and find out if any neighbors have kids around the same age.

Create a personalized moving book or guide for younger children. This can include pictures of the new house, a neighborhood map, and a story about the moving adventure. This approach can help children feel more involved and less anxious about the change.

Moving with Seniors or Disabled Family Members

Moving is tiring, and for seniors or people with disabilities, physical limits add challenges. Packing, lifting, and moving through tight spaces can be tough, so plan with accessibility in mind.

Declutter early to reduce the number of items to move. Set up a safe, comfortable packing area with seating and easy access to essentials. Rent or buy mobility aids like ramps, carts, or transfer benches to make moving easier. If mobility is a concern, set up a resting area for your family member to reduce stress and fatigue during the move.

Managing medication is also important. Pack a travel kit with prescriptions, medical devices, and emergency contacts. If the new home needs grab bars, ramps, or wider doorways, install them before moving day. Hiring movers with senior relocation services can reduce strain and prevent injury.

Moving Pets

If there are any pets in your house, it will probably be best to move them first and keep them in the backyard so that they can get used to their new home, too. You may also place them in a quiet room while you are moving.

For pet owners, prepare a pet-specific moving kit. This should include food, water, toys, and pet medications. Also, update your pet's microchip information and tags with your new address and contact details.

Help Movers

Clear a path for the movers to carry your items before they come, and maintain it clear all the way through. You can't see what's before you, especially when carrying heavy objects. Wires and extension cords that could trip someone should be removed too.

Walk the movers through your home or apartment when they arrive. Provide your preferences for how the items should be loaded as soon as possible. If the movers need to use the restroom during the move, show them where it is.

Always be there when the movers pack your goods. Anything you pack ahead will save you time and money on moving day, but make sure to mark all your boxes by the bedrooms or contents. If you decide to do your packing or partial packing, movers are not liable for damage to those boxes unless there is obvious exterior damage to your boxes. Find out whether your goods are covered in transit from homeowners' or renters' insurance companies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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