The Importance of Planning Your Move in Salt Lake City, UT

Moving is a big and sometimes daunting experience, and proper planning can make all the difference. Using a moving checklist helps reduce stress, ensures that important tasks aren’t overlooked, and lets you concentrate on getting comfortable in your new place. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, knowing how to prepare for a move in Salt Lake City will help make the process more manageable.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for a Move?

No two moves are the same, but generally, preparing for a move should be planned out two months ahead to ensure you’re not scrambling at the last minute. The key to success is breaking the process into manageable steps, so nothing gets missed at the end. Below is a moving timeline to help you plan for a move in Salt Lake City effectively.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Initial Planning

• Arrange Moving Services – Contact Starving Students to schedule your move and secure your preferred moving date.
• Declutter and Downsize – Sort through your belongings and decide what to take with you, give away, or list for sale.
• Start Exploring Your New Home – If moving to a new city, research local amenities, schools, and services.
• Organize a Moving Binder – Keep all important documents, transaction records, and checklists in one place.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Logistics & Organization

• Create a Moving Budget – Include all expected moving costs, all necessary packing materials, and possible storage expenses.
• Update Key Contacts – Notify your employer, financial institutions, and subscription services.
• Gather Packing Supplies – Get durable moving cartons, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling.
• Arrange Extra Help – Find assistance for children or pets if needed on moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

• File a Change of Address – Inform the post office of your pending move.
• Start Packing Non-Essentials – Pack items you won’t need before the move, such as seasonal clothing and decorations.
• Organize Utility Services – Set up disconnect and connect dates for electricity, water, gas, and internet services.
• Check Your Storage Arrangements – If you require short-term or long-term storage, make necessary arrangements.
• Prepare Your Car for the Move – If driving to your new home, have your car serviced.

3 Weeks Before Moving Day: Final Preparations

• Plan Moving Day Travel – Book flights, hotels, or rental vehicles if needed for a long-distance move.
• Collect Critical Paperwork – Get all essential records together.
• Arrange for Special Items – Make a plan for moving pets, plants, and valuables.
• Sell or Donate Unwanted Items – Let go of extra items before your move.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Confirm Details

• Contact Starving Students – Confirm your moving day schedule and logistics.
• Label and Inventory Boxes – Mark boxes for easy identification.
• Pack an Essentials Box – Add daily must-haves and essential paperwork.
• Get Appliances Ready – Get fridges, washers, and more ready to move.
• Make Accommodations for Final Bills & Deposits – Settle final financial obligations before the move.

1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Tasks

• Reconfirm Move Day Arrangements – Review final plans with Starving Students and put together a schedule.
• Take Furniture Apart – If possible, take apart beds, desks, and large furniture.
• Keep Valuables Safe – Set aside valuable items like cash and jewelry to bring with you.
• Prepare the Home for Move-Out – Arrange for a deep clean of your current home if needed.

2 Days Before Moving Day: Last-Minute Details

• Empty & Defrost Freezer and Fridge – Let appliances air out.
• Prepare luggage with Immediate Needs – Pack what you’ll need right away.
• Set Aside Items Not to Be Loaded – Do not load essential items like medications, valuables, or important documents into the truck.
• Share Any Special Instructions with Movers – If needed, explain the layout or access info for the new home.

Moving Day: Time to Go!

• Be Available for Movers – Remain at the property to monitor and oversee loading.
• Perform a Final Walkthrough – Look over every space to make sure everything is packed.
• Confirm New Address – Share your new address and important notes with movers.
• Record Utility Readings – Write down all meter readings prior to move-out.
• Carry Essential Items with You – Carry important documents, valuables, medications, and chargers with you.

The Importance of a Moving Timeline

Following a structured moving timeline helps reduce last-minute stress, helps you stay on track, and makes your move go smoothly. The more prepared you are, the easier it is to settle into your new place. Following a moving plan helps to remove any guesswork and helps you look forward to your new home.

Need Help Planning Your Move? Contact Starving Students!

If you’re wondering how long it takes to prepare for a move in Salt Lake City or want help at any stage, Starving Students is here to help. Our expert moving solutions take the stress out of moving so you can focus on what matters most. Contact our office at (385) 217-6239 or fill out our online request form for a no-cost consultation and moving schedule support!