Essential Moving Checklist for Bluffton Moves

Moving can feel overwhelming, but with the right checklist, every step becomes easier and more manageable. Whether relocating your home or business in Bluffton, Montford Movers has handled hundreds of successful moves and knows exactly what makes the process smooth. Use this comprehensive moving checklist to simplify every task, reduce stress, and ensure nothing is missed on moving day.

4-6 Weeks Before Moving: Start Planning Early

Book Your Movers: Reserve Montford Movers early, especially for moves during popular months or weekends. Confirm your moving date and discuss services needed (packing, storage, junk removal).
Create a Moving Folder: Gather all estimates, receipts, and important documents in one place.
Sort and Declutter: Take inventory of each room. Donate, sell, recycle, or dispose of items you won’t need in your new home.
Notify Schools and Medical Providers: Arrange for records transfers and notify care providers of your move.
Change of Address: Submit your change of address to the post office. Notify banks, credit cards, insurance, subscriptions, and friends and family.
Schedule Time Off Work: If possible, take moving day and a day after off to settle in. exploring other cities near Bluffton, SC

3 Weeks Before Moving: Prep and Organize

Gather Packing Supplies: Purchase high-quality boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers from Montford Movers or local supply stores.
Begin Packing Unused Items: Pack up seasonal items, books, and décor first. Clearly label all boxes by room and highlight “fragile” as needed.
Arrange Utilities: Schedule disconnection of water, electricity, gas, cable, and internet at your old place and set up service at your new one.
Transfer Insurance: Notify your renters or homeowners insurance company about your new address.

2 Weeks Before Moving: Tackle Logistics

Dispose of Hazardous Materials: Safely get rid of paint, chemicals, and other prohibited items—Montford Movers cannot transport these.
Return Borrowed and Library Items: Collect anything loaned to friends and return borrowed books or tools.
Service Vehicles and Equipment: If moving a car or lawn equipment, arrange servicing and prepare them per transport guidelines.
Arrange Child & Pet Care: Set up help for moving day.
Use Up Pantry and Freezer Food: Stop grocery shopping and plan meals to minimize waste.
Plan Layout of New Home: Decide where furniture and boxes should go to help the movers place things efficiently.

1 Week Before Moving: Final Prep

Pack Most Remaining Items: Keep only what you’ll use in the last days.
Defrost and Clean Appliances: Defrost the fridge and freezer, clean thoroughly, and keep doors ajar to prevent odor.
Finish Errands: Fill prescriptions, pick up dry cleaning, and confirm childcare for moving day.
Prepare an Essentials Box: Include snacks, clothes, toiletries, medications, phone chargers, and vital documents to keep with you—not on the moving truck. Also pack one for pets or children if needed.
Withdraw Cash: For tipping movers or last-minute expenses.

1 Day Before Moving: Last Checks

Pack Last-Minute Items: Bedding, toiletries, and kitchen essentials.
Confirm Details with Montford Movers: Double-check arrival time and review special instructions.
Clean Old Home: Give your old place a once-over, checking closets, drawers, basements, and outdoor spaces.
Prepare Payment and Tip: If paying on moving day, have cash, card, or check ready. Arrange tip for movers as desired.
Disassemble Furniture: Take apart beds and tables (unless Montford Movers will do this for you).
Label and Set Aside Valuables: Keep jewelry, important documents, and small electronics with you.

Moving Day: Stay Calm & Organized

Wake Up Early: Have breakfast and get dressed in comfortable clothes.
Clear Walkways: Move any obstacles out of the path to the door.
Meet the Movers: Walk your Montford Movers crew through your home, explaining which boxes are most fragile or important.
Supervise Loading: Check off items on your inventory list as they are loaded onto the truck.
Perform Final Walkthrough: Check every room, closet, drawer, and outdoor area before leaving.
Leave Keys and Instructions: For the next occupant or landlord.
Keep Essentials Accessible: Make sure your “essentials box” stays by your side. ready to make the move to historic Beaufort.

After the Move: Settling In

Check Items Off Inventory: Ensure all items have arrived at the new home and are intact.
Direct the Unloading: Clearly guide the Montford team where each box and item should go.
Inspect for Damage: Check belongings for any issues and report immediately if needed.
Unpack Essentials First: Bathroom, bedding, and kitchen items.
Test Utilities: Confirm water, electricity, gas, and internet are all functioning.
Meet the Neighbors: Introduce yourself and begin exploring Bluffton’s Lowcountry community.
Recycle Boxes and Supplies: Donate or recycle packing materials once unpacking is complete.

Montford Movers’ Pro Tips for Bluffton Moves

Start packing as early as possible—spreading it out reduces last-minute stress.
Update your address with all key contacts well before moving; some subscriptions or services need weeks’ notice.
Use small boxes for heavy items and large boxes for light ones to avoid injuries.
Take photos of electronics setups before unplugging for easier reconnection.
If you need help at any point, Montford Movers offers packing, unpacking, storage, and specialty moving services.

Call to Action

Get ready for your Bluffton move the smart way—use Montford Movers’ checklist and let our local experts do the heavy lifting. For personalized moving help, packing materials, or free quotes, contact Montford Movers. Make your next move the smoothest one yet!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I include in an essentials box for moving day?

Your essentials box should have toiletries, medications, chargers, snacks, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, documents, and any special items for kids or pets. Keep this box with you and not in the moving truck. This makes the first night and morning in your new home far more comfortable.

When should I start packing for a local move in Bluffton?

Start decluttering and packing rarely used items 4–6 weeks before the move. Most household packing should be done at least a week before moving day, leaving only daily necessities for last-minute boxing. Early preparation allows for smoother, less stressful moving days.

Will Montford Movers supply packing materials and help pack?

Yes, Montford Movers offers premium packing materials—including boxes, tape, and wrap—as well as full or partial packing services. Whether you want help with your whole house or just the most fragile items, Montford’s local Bluffton team can handle every packing challenge for an efficient, safe move. facing the challenge of moving large furniture into cramped spaces.