A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Newark

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 Newark individuals and organizations since 1920. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, 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
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• 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

• 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
• Organize everything by what to move, give away, or throw out

Arrange Donation of Unwanted Items

• Select gently used things for charity
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• 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
• Take photos and write descriptions for everything to be sold
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Set up tables and get cash ready for customers

Don’t Lose Track of Key Files

• Find all your essential documents early
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• 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
• Flag anything that is delicate, pricey, or sensitive
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Photos for Insurance

• Photograph valuable possessions for records
• Upload all images to a secure storage account
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

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

Utility Arrangements

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• 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

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Schedule time to empty or transfer items in storage
• Coordinate your access ahead of moving day
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Change of Address

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

Notifying Schools & Healthcare 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

• Bring entertainment, snacks, and favorite things for the trip
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• 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

• Talk to your employer about days off for your move
• Let your boss and coworkers know about your move so they can plan around your absence
• Prepare auto-replies so contacts know you’re moving
• Make a list of any urgent work tasks to finish before your days off
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

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
• Confirm room measurements to avoid placement problems
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Set aside valuables, jewelry, important documents, and anything else you don't want packed by the movers
• 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
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• 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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all requirements
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Making Sure Both Homes Are Clean

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Book your time at the storage unit early
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• Make a list of what's in storage and label boxes or items for easy identification
• Arrange for new storage and double-check details

Notifying Neighbors

• Give advance notice of your move to your neighbors
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Thank them for their patience with any noise or inconvenience

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• Find out about parking rules in both old and new neighborhoods
• 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

• Make sure every utility is disconnected at your old home and connected at the new address
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Packing Personal Items

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• 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

Essentials Box/Bag

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Drop off everything you’ve borrowed to the right owners

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

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

Unplug and Clean Appliances

• 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
• Dry the appliances completely before moving day

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Pack everything you won’t use right away
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Keep fragile items well-protected with padding
• 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
• Make sure you have contact info handy for the moving team on the day

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Add all entry tools to your folder so you have them
• Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
• Store all paperwork and small essentials for easy access

Prepare Overnight Bags for the Family

• 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

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Set aside money, precious items, and family heirlooms
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Getting Rid of Unwanted Items

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Dispose of, give away, or repurpose things you don’t need
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

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

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Scrub and sanitize trash cans and recycling bins before moving
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• 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

Get Your Fridge Ready for Moving

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
• Make sure it's completely dry to avoid any mildew
• If you have a front-loading washer, secure the drum with moving bolts to protect it during the move
• Allow extra time for remaining dampness to disappear

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Observe the move-out process to prevent mistakes

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• 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
• Peek in unlikely places for things you may have missed

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

Getting Settled in Your New Place

• Get to your new home before the movers so you're ready to greet them and unlock the door
• Check that spaces are clear and ready for move-in

• 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
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• If you notice any damage or problems, make a note of it on the moving paperwork before you sign anything
• Snap pictures as proof for your insurance

• Make sure electricity, water, gas, and internet are all working
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Save these photos for your records in case there are any billing questions later

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

Start with Must-Have Items

• 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
• Give clear instructions on where you'd like things put away

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

• Contact government offices to update your address on your driver’s license, car registration, and voter registration
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Fill out the paperwork so your furry friends are legal at your new address

• Walk around and offer a friendly greeting
• A quick chat can go a long way toward feeling at home

• Post your thoughts online to assist other customers

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Keep paperwork in case you need to reference it later

• Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Refer to your images for a hassle-free setup

• Make sure everyone has sleepwear, toothbrushes, and clean towels
• 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
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Save these contacts in your phone and keep a printed copy handy in your new home

Need Help With Your Newark Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Newark, Bayshore Moving and Storage stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Dependability – Trusted by Newark families and businesses alike since 1920
• Professionalism – We treat your possessions with the respect they deserve
• Affordable Results – Expect guaranteed pricing and real savings

Don't stress about your upcoming move – count on the professionals at 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 Newark Moving Quote or give us a ring at 302-665-1483 to get started!