12 Things People Forget When Moving: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving is a monumental task that can test your organizational skills and attention to detail. Amidst the chaos of packing boxes and coordinating logistics, it’s easy to overlook some crucial items. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the 12 most commonly forgotten things when moving and explore what you should absolutely not forget. Plus, we’ll provide you with an in-depth moving checklist to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.

The Most Commonly Forgotten Things When Moving

1. Personal Documents: Personal identification documents such as passports, birth certificates, and Social Security cards are often tucked away in drawers or safety deposit boxes. Before moving, gather these critical documents and keep them in a secure folder. Consider carrying them with you personally during the move to ensure their safety.
2. Library Books and Borrowed Items: Overdue library books and borrowed items from friends and neighbors can easily escape your attention during the packing frenzy. Set a reminder to return or properly pack these items well in advance of your move to avoid late fees or awkward conversations.
3. Valuables and Jewelry: High-value items like jewelry, collectibles, and family heirlooms are sometimes left behind in the rush to pack. Consider packing these valuables separately and transporting them yourself, or entrust them to a reputable moving company with a proven track record for handling precious cargo.
4. Clothes and Dry Cleaning: Clothing stored in infrequently used closets or sent for dry cleaning can be out of sight, out of mind. Before the big day, double-check all your closets, including those you rarely access. It’s also a good idea to pick up dry-cleaned items well in advance of your move.
5. Manuals: Instruction manuals for appliances, electronics, or furniture are indispensable when setting up your new home. Collect all manuals and organize them in a labeled box. Better yet, go digital and scan them to a cloud storage service for easy access in the future.
6. Plants: Indoor plants are often overlooked but require special care during a move. Research how to best transport them or consider gifting them to friends or neighbors if you’re concerned about their well-being during transit.
7. Keys: Spare keys, garage door openers, and keys to various locks around your home are frequently forgotten. Gather all keys, label them clearly, and keep them in a secure bag. Be sure to hand over keys to the new occupants if applicable.
8. Coffee Makers and Small Kitchen Appliances: It’s amazing how often coffee makers, toasters, or other small kitchen appliances are left behind. Perform a thorough sweep of your kitchen, including cabinets and drawers, to ensure you don’t miss anything essential for your daily routines.
9. Medicine: Prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs are critical for your well-being. Pack them in a clearly labeled box and carry them with you during the move to ensure they’re readily available when needed.
10. Toilet Paper and Toiletries: Daily essentials like toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, and shampoo can get buried in boxes. Set aside a special box containing these items, ensuring that you won’t be caught off guard on your first day in your new home.
11. Keepsakes and Seasonal Items: Items with sentimental value, such as family photo albums or holiday decorations, are sometimes forgotten. Prioritize these cherished possessions and pack them safely to preserve the memories they hold.
12. Outdoor Plants and Decorations: Outdoor plants and garden decorations can be neglected in the whirlwind of moving preparations. Plan for their safe transport or consider leaving them as a welcoming gift for the new owners or tenants.

What You Should Definitely NOT Forget When Moving

While all the above-mentioned items are vital, there are several key considerations that should be at the forefront of your mind throughout the moving process:

Important Contacts: Keep a list of essential contacts, including your moving company, real estate agent, utility providers, and emergency contacts. Having these contacts readily available can help you resolve any issues quickly.

Essential Supplies: Pack a “moving day essentials” box with items you’ll need immediately upon arriving at your new home. This box should include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic cleaning supplies, and snacks.

First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen during a move, so having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand is essential. Make sure it includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

Cash and Important Records: Carry cash, checks, and important records like insurance documents, medical records, and financial statements with you. Don’t pack them away where they might be difficult to access.

Children and Pet Essentials: If you have children or pets, ensure you have their essentials like diapers, baby formula, pet food, and toys readily accessible. Moving can be stressful for them, so keeping their routines as normal as possible is crucial.

Your Moving Checklist: A Detailed Plan

To help you stay meticulously organized during your move, here’s an in-depth checklist:

1. Declutter: Start your moving preparations by decluttering. Go through your belongings room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
2. Create an Inventory: Make a detailed inventory of your possessions. This can be a spreadsheet or a mobile app that allows you to catalog your items and their condition.
3. Notify Service Providers: Inform utility companies, the post office, and relevant institutions of your upcoming change of address. This should include setting up new utilities for your new home.
4. Hire a Reputable Moving Company: Choose a reliable moving company like Interior Moving Services that specializes in residential moves. Read reviews, get recommendations, and thoroughly vet your chosen company to ensure a smooth move.
5. Label Your Boxes Systematically: Clearly label boxes with their contents and the room they belong to. Use color-coded labels or a numbering system to make unpacking at your new home more efficient.
6. Protect Valuables: High-value or fragile items should be packed with extra care. Use bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes to protect these items during transit.
7. Disassemble Furniture: If necessary, disassemble furniture for easier transportation. Keep all hardware and screws in labeled bags to simplify reassembly.
8. Arrange Child and Pet Care: Moving day can be chaotic, so consider arranging for child or pet care to keep them safe and minimize disruptions.
9. Final Walkthrough: Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Check closets, attics, basements, and hidden corners.
10. Lock Up Securely: Secure all doors and windows before leaving your old home. Ensure that you haven’t left any personal items, like spare keys or important documents.
11. Arrival Inspection: When you arrive at your new home, conduct a thorough inspection before you start unpacking. Check for any damages or issues that need to be addressed immediately.
12. Unpacking and Organization: Unpack systematically, starting with essential items you’ll need immediately. As you unpack, organize each room according to your preferences.

Why Choose Interior Moving Services for Your Move

Moving is a complex process, and choosing the right moving company can make all the difference. Interior Moving Services, based in Rochester, New York, stands out as your go-to choice for residential moves due to the following reasons:

• Experience: With over 30 years of experience in the moving industry, Interior Moving Services has honed its skills and expertise to ensure a seamless relocation experience.
• Professionalism: Their team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch service. They are trained to handle your belongings with the utmost care.
• Full-Service Options: Interior Moving Services offers a range of services, from packing and unpacking to storage solutions, making your move hassle-free.
• Local Expertise: Being a locally-based company, they possess an intimate knowledge of the Rochester area, ensuring a smooth move, even in the most challenging conditions.
• Customer Satisfaction: Interior Moving Services prioritizes customer satisfaction. Their numerous positive reviews and testimonials reflect their commitment to excellence.