How to Make Moving Day Stress-Free: A Timeline & Checklist

Moving is one of the most stressful life events—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, your move can be organized, efficient, and even calm. Whether you're relocating within Temecula, Murrieta, or anywhere else in Southern California, this practical checklist is designed to help you plan ahead and avoid last-minute problems.

Here’s a detailed, realistic timeline to make moving day easier.

3–4 Weeks Before Moving Day

Book Your Movers
Secure your spot with a trusted, local moving company early—especially if you’re moving during peak times like weekends or month-end. At Good Movers, our flat rate is $150/hour for two professional movers and a truck—no hidden fees.

Sort and Declutter
Go room by room and get rid of what you don’t want to take. Sell, donate, or recycle items that won’t be used in the new home. This reduces what you need to pack, move, and unpack.

Gather Supplies
Stock up on quality moving boxes, packing tape, markers, labels, and wrapping materials. Specialty boxes for dishes, TVs, and hanging clothes make packing more efficient and secure.

2 Weeks Before

Start Packing Non-Essentials
Begin with items you don’t use daily—books, seasonal clothing, decorations. Label boxes clearly with contents and the destination room.

Change of Address and Utilities
Update your address with USPS, banks, medical offices, and subscriptions. Schedule shut-off and activation dates for utilities like electricity, gas, water, and internet at both the old and new locations.

1 Week Before

Pack Most of the House
Leave only the essentials out. Clearly mark “OPEN FIRST” boxes with kitchen and bathroom basics, tools, and any important paperwork.

Disassemble Furniture
Break down beds, tables, and anything else that won’t fit through the door or needs special handling. Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the furniture.

Confirm Details with Movers
Call to confirm the arrival window, address, parking situation, and any special instructions. At Good Movers, we always send confirmation reminders the week of your move.

2–3 Days Before

Prepare an Essentials Box
This should include medications, chargers, toiletries, snacks, work clothes, and anything you'll need immediately after the move. Keep this box with you, not in the truck.

Defrost the Refrigerator
If you're moving a fridge, unplug and clean it at least 24–48 hours before moving day. Dry thoroughly to prevent mold or water damage.

The Night Before

Pack Last-Minute Items
Toothbrushes, bed linens, and kitchen basics should be packed but accessible.

Charge Your Phone
You’ll need it for updates, directions, and contacting your movers.

Get a Full Night’s Sleep
Well-rested people move more efficiently and handle stress better.

Moving Day

Be Ready Before the Crew Arrives
All boxes should be packed, sealed, and labeled. Walkways should be clear. Pets and children should be out of the way.

Do a Quick Walkthrough with Movers
Show the crew what’s going, what’s staying, and highlight anything fragile or valuable. Clear communication saves time and prevents issues.

Be Accessible
Stay on-site and available for questions. If you’re unavailable, assign someone to speak on your behalf.

Final Walkthrough
Before the truck pulls away, check every room, cabinet, closet, and outdoor space.

After the Move

Inspect for Damage
Check boxes and furniture as you unpack. At Good Movers, we pride ourselves on careful handling, but if there’s an issue, we want to know about it immediately.

Unpack Essentials First
Set up beds, bathrooms, and the kitchen so you can function comfortably in the new space.

Change Locks (if needed)
If you're moving into a previously occupied home, changing the locks is a smart safety step.

Summary

The key to a stress-free move is planning early, staying organized, and hiring a professional team that knows what they’re doing. At Good Movers Moving Co., we keep your move smooth and transparent with top-rated local crews paid $40/hour for their skill and care. No hidden fees, no upcharges, and no surprises—just a clear $150/hour rate for real moving professionals.

Book your move at www.getgoodmovers.com or call 951-264-9103.