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How to Prepare for Your Move with Quality Moving and Storage

Moving takes work. But with a bit of planning and the right team in your corner, it doesn’t have to be a mess. Some people want help with every part of the move. Others just need a hand loading the truck. Either way, these 6 steps will help you get organized and stay on track.

Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You’ll Need

Most people underestimate how long it takes to prepare for a move. Things pile up fast. Start planning about a month ahead. If you’re moving during spring or summer – our busiest seasons in Minnesota and Wisconsin – sooner is better. Professional movers book up quickly.

Make a list of everything that needs to get done:

  • Change your address
  • Shut off and start utilities
  • Pick up packing supplies
  • Donate or toss what you don’t want
  • Decide what you’ll handle vs. what we’ll take care of

Getting it all out of your head and onto paper makes it easier to manage.

Sort Your Belongings Before You Pack

Before you start boxing things up, take time to go through each space. You’ll probably come across items you no longer use or need.

Create four categories as you sort:

  • Keep
  • Donate
  • Sell
  • Throw away

This is also a good time to think about junk removal. If there are large items or general clutter you want gone, we can help take care of it before moving day.

Pack in Stages, and Label Everything Clearly

Start with the things you won’t need right away – books, seasonal clothes, decorations – and save daily essentials for last.

Here are a few tips:

  • Use small boxes for heavier items
  • Use large boxes for lightweight things like linens and pillows
  • Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in

If packing feels like too much to take on, we offer full and partial packing services. You can leave the fragile or high-value items to us, or have our team handle everything.

Consider Storage for Anything You Won’t Move Right Away

If your move-in date doesn’t line up perfectly with your move-out, or if you’re still deciding what to do with certain items, storage can be a good solution.

We offer climate-controlled indoor storage that’s safe, secure, and flexible. Short-term or long-term – whatever you need.

Pack a Box for the First Night

Once everything is packed and on the truck, it can be hard to track down basic items right away. Prepare a small box or bag with the essentials you’ll want quick access to:

  • Toiletries
  • Medications
  • Chargers
  • A change of clothes
  • Snacks and bottled water
  • Trash bags and paper products

Keep this with you so you don’t have to search for the basics when you get to your new home.

Use the Final Week to Wrap Up Details

In the week leading up to your move, focus on tying up loose ends:

  • Confirm the moving date and arrival time
  • Set up utilities at your new address
  • File your change of address with the post office
  • Notify your employer, banks, and any subscriptions
  • Defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer

These small tasks make a big difference when moving day comes around.

We’re Here to Help

At Quality Moving and Storage, we’ve helped hundreds of families and individuals move with less stress. From packing and junk removal to indoor storage, our team is here to support you at every step.

If you’re getting ready to move, give us a call. We’ll help you build a plan that fits your timeline, your budget, and your priorities – no pressure.