A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Baltimore

Moving doesn’t need to be difficult, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Bayshore Moving and Storage, we have supported moves for countless Baltimore individuals and organizations since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

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
• 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

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• Post items online or plan a garage sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Arrange Donation of Unwanted Items

• 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

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• List items for sale on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local apps
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Schedule and organize your in-person sale
• Have supplies on hand for your garage sale

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

• Find all your essential documents early
• Gather insurance papers, financial information, and school records
• Get a secure container or digital solution for storage
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Write down everything you’re moving
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Taking Pictures for Protection

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Upload all images to a secure storage account
• Store photos in a secure digital folder or print copies for reference

Managing Perishables and Hazardous Supplies

• Finish your fresh food before move day
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Utility Arrangements

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Verify that everything you need is working or scheduled
• Call each company to arrange your move-out timing
• Book your start dates to avoid gaps in service
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Handling Secure Storage Before the Move

• Plan to visit the bank and empty any safe deposit boxes before a long-distance move
• Set date to empty or move any storage units
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Change of Address

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Notify all your financial and service providers about your new address

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Give notice to your children’s school and all your healthcare providers
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

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
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• 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
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Getting to Know Your New Area

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
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Hold on to passports, special keepsakes, and sensitive files
• Have a go-bag ready with the basics for your first night
• Carry important daily items in your pocket or purse
• Personally move anything that can’t be replaced

Managing Entry and Exit

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

4 Weeks Before Moving

Contact Bayshore

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

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Ask if you need to provide insurance certificates for the movers
• Make arrangements for access to necessary moving facilities
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

Arranging for Clean-Up

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• Make a checklist of any areas you want the cleaners to pay special attention to
• 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
• 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

• Tell neighbors when you’ll be moving so they’re prepared
• Give them a heads-up if parking or shared spaces will be affected
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
• Put up barriers to hold your reserved parking if permitted

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Start packing personal items you want to move yourself, like medications, keepsakes, and important documents
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Keep this essentials kit easily accessible during your move

Returning Borrowed Items

• Gather up anything you've borrowed from friends, neighbors, or the library
• Make sure no one is missing something you borrowed after you move

Prescription Transfers

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Disconnect all large kitchen and laundry appliances
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Finish with things you can do without for a few days
• 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

Review Details for Move Day

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Remind them of anything out of the ordinary
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Make a Handy Moving Day Packet

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• 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
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Final Declutter

• Take one more pass for anything that shouldn’t come along
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

Set Aside Cash for the Big 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
• Make sure communication is clear for hand-offs and updates

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
• 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
• Unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open to defrost
• Wipe down inside surfaces and dry everything to prevent odors or mold

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• Stabilize the drum according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Allow extra time for remaining dampness to disappear

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Stay available to answer any questions and give directions to the movers as they work
• Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Double-check that everything you want moved is included on their list

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Do a final security sweep to close up the property
• Power down everything before you lock up

• Do a last check of every room, closet, cabinet, attic, basement, and garage to make sure nothing is forgotten
• Open every compartment for hidden belongings

• Organize keys and remotes for a smooth handover
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

• Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

• Mark off belongings to verify nothing is missing
• Look for dents or scratches before the movers leave

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

• Confirm basic utilities are active and connected
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Save images so you can confirm usage later
• Save these photos for your records in case there are any billing questions later

• Consider changing the locks or getting new keys made for extra peace of mind
• 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

• Let movers know your unpacking priorities at the start
• Explain exactly where to place your belongings as you unpack

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• See if your moving company can take the waste, or check for local recycling drop-offs

• 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
• 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

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• Hold onto these for your records or in case you can claim moving expenses on your taxes

• 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

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Bring extra things to make your family feel at home right away

• 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

• Make a list of key emergency numbers for your new area—local police, fire department, nearest hospital, and a 24-hour pharmacy
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your Baltimore Move?

When you're looking for reliable movers in Baltimore, Bayshore Moving and Storage stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Dependability – Chosen by countless Baltimore clients since 1920
• Professionalism – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Best Value – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Relax and take the stress out of your move – count on the professionals at Bayshore Moving and Storage to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Baltimore Moving Quote or phone our team at 443-806-8634 today!