Moving out of an apartment can be a daunting task. From packing up your belongings to cleaning your apartment, there’s a lot to cross off your list. It’s important to plan ahead of time and stay organized to ensure a seamless moving day. We’ve created a guide to walk you through everything you need to complete before and on moving day.
Plan your transportation method
Set up transportation for your belongings in advance, whether you plan to hire movers or rent a U-Haul. This is especially helpful if you’re moving far away, so you can get everything in one trip. About 1-2 months before your move, do some research and decide which company is best for you. Companies like U-Haul allow you to reserve a van or truck in advance for your particular moving day.
Decide if you need a storage unit
Whether there’s some time in between your leases or if you’re downsizing, you may need to get a storage unit. Research local storage units and decide which is the best fit for you. Be sure to start this a few months in advance, as many places have waitlists or are full, depending on your location.
Contact your utility companies
Make a list of your utilities and call each company at least a few weeks before moving out. Click here to learn more on how to cancel your utilities before moving out. If you’re moving directly into a new apartment, be sure to set up your new utilities as well. If the apartments use the same utility companies, you may be able to just transfer the account to the new address, rather than closing your account.
Fill out a change of address form
Filling out the USPS online change of address form will send your mail to your new address. Click here to see a step-by-step guide on how to change your address.
Gather packing materials
Whether you are the sustainable type who uses reusable storage containers or are a cardboard box user, gather packing materials for all of your belongings at least a week before you start packing. Have a roll of tape and some Sharpies on hand to label all of your boxes. We recommend labeling each box or bin with the room and category. Example: kitchen, plates and bowls. For fragile items, look into packing peanuts or foam inserts to prevent scratches and breaks.
Remove all of your belongings
Be sure to move everything out of your apartment that wasn’t there when you moved in. This includes everything you hung on the walls, items in the fridge, hangers in the closets, etc. On the flip side, be careful not to take anything that was there when you moved in, such as blinds or the shower curtain rod.
Leave your apartment clean
Once your apartment is empty, it’s a good idea to do a deep clean. This should consist of dusting, cleaning your baseboards, vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, and mopping.
Preparing ahead of time and staying organized sets you up for a smooth move-out day. Leaving your apartment empty and clean without any trash, whether it is leftovers in the fridge or old items you do not want, is respectful to the management team and the next tenant.
