Moving Tips & Resources
25+ years of professional moving experience distilled into practical guides, checklists, and tips. Make your next move stress-free with expert advice from D&D Moving & Storage.
8-Week Moving Checklist
Stay organized with our week-by-week moving timeline. Check off tasks as you go to ensure nothing is forgotten.
8 Weeks Before
- Create a moving binder/folder for documents
- Research moving companies and get quotes
- Declutter room by room—donate, sell, or discard
- Start using up frozen foods and pantry items
6 Weeks Before
- Book your moving company
- Notify landlord (if renting) or schedule closing
- Begin collecting packing supplies
- Create an inventory of valuable items
4 Weeks Before
- Start packing non-essential items
- File change of address with USPS
- Transfer or cancel utilities
- Notify banks, subscriptions, and employers
2 Weeks Before
- Confirm details with moving company
- Pack most of the house, room by room
- Arrange pet or child care for moving day
- Prepare a 'first night' essentials box
1 Week Before
- Finish packing all non-essential items
- Clean and defrost refrigerator
- Confirm new home utilities are active
- Prepare cash for tips and last-minute needs
Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough of old home
- Be present to direct movers
- Check off inventory as items are loaded
- Hand over keys to old home
Professional Packing Tips
Learn the techniques our movers use to pack efficiently and protect your belongings.
Start with Rarely Used Items
Begin packing seasonal items, books, and decorations first. Leave everyday essentials for last.
Use Quality Boxes
Invest in sturdy, uniform boxes. They stack better and protect your belongings more effectively.
Label Everything
Mark boxes with contents AND destination room. Use color-coded labels for quick identification.
Pack Heavy Items Small
Use smaller boxes for heavy items like books. This makes them easier to carry and less likely to break.
Wrap Fragile Items Properly
Use packing paper, not newspaper (which smudges). Bubble wrap is essential for truly fragile items.
Don't Leave Empty Space
Fill gaps with packing paper or linens to prevent shifting during transport.
Moving Day Essentials
Pack a separate "essentials box" that travels with you (not on the truck). Include items you'll need immediately at your new home:
Pro Tip: Photograph Everything
Before moving, photograph your valuable items and electronics (including serial numbers). Take pictures of how electronics are connected. This documentation is invaluable for insurance claims and setting things up at your new home.
Learn About Our Insurance CoverageHelpful Moving Resources
Download our free guides and use our tools to plan your perfect move.
Complete Moving Checklist
A printable week-by-week guide to keep your move on track.
AccessRoom-by-Room Packing Guide
Specific tips for packing kitchens, bedrooms, offices, and more.
AccessMoving Cost Calculator
Estimate your moving costs with our free quote tool.
AccessStorage Size Guide
Find the right storage unit size for your belongings.
AccessWhen to Hire Professional Movers
While DIY moves work for some, professional movers save time, reduce stress, and protect your belongings.
Consider DIY If...
- •Moving a studio or 1-bedroom
- •Moving locally (same city)
- •You have help from friends
- •No heavy or valuable items
Hire Pros If...
- Moving a 2+ bedroom home
- Long-distance or interstate
- You have valuable furniture
- Time is a priority
Hybrid Option
- •Rent a truck yourself
- •Hire us to load/unload
- •Get professional handling
- •Save on full-service costs
Let Us Handle Your Move
With 25+ years of experience, D&D Moving & Storage knows how to make your move stress-free. Get a free quote today.