The Ultimate Bellingham Moving Checklist: From 3 Months Out to Moving Day

Moving can feel like a mountain to climb, a giant puzzle with countless pieces. But what if we told you it doesn't have to be a scramble? 

Here at Thumbs Up Moving Labor, we believe in making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. That's why we've put together The Ultimate Bellingham Moving Checklist, a comprehensive moving checklist designed to guide you from three months before moving day right up to the final box. Consider this your friendly, experienced companion on your journey to a new home in beautiful Bellingham.

Smooth Sailing Starts Early: Your Moving Checklist 3 Months Out

The key to a calm moving experience is preparation, and that starts well in advance. Don't underestimate the power of starting early; it gives you ample time to make thoughtful decisions and avoid last-minute panics.

• Create a Moving Binder/Digital Folder: This will be your central hub for all moving-related documents, quotes, contacts, and checklists. Trust us, organization is your best friend!
• Set Your Budget: Understand your financial parameters. This includes moving services, packing supplies, utility transfers, and initial setup costs for your new place.
• Research & Book Movers (or helpers!): This is crucial, especially during peak moving seasons. If you're looking for flexible, reliable labor for loading and unloading, now is the time to start looking for a Bellingham moving guide and contacting professional moving labor services. For dedicated assistance from our team, it's wise to get a quote early to ensure availability.
• Declutter, Declutter, Declutter: This is arguably the most impactful step. Go room by room, deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Less stuff means less to pack, move, and unpack, saving you time and money. For guidance on how to plan a move with decluttering in mind, check out our recent blog post on that very topic!
• Start a "Change of Address" List: Begin compiling a list of everyone who needs your new address: banks, subscriptions, friends, family, etc.

Two Months Out: Diving into the Details of Your Bellingham Relocation

As the countdown continues, it's time to refine your plans and tackle some more significant tasks on your Bellingham relocation checklist.

• Confirm Your Moving Date: Solidify your move date and inform your moving labor company. If you're using our services, we'll ensure our team is ready for you.
• Begin Packing Non-Essentials: Start with items you won't need in the next two months. Think seasonal decorations, books you've already read, rarely used kitchen gadgets, and off-season clothing. Label boxes clearly with contents and the room they belong in.
• Notify Your Landlord/Give Notice: If you're renting, adhere to your lease agreement's notice period.
• Arrange School Transfers/Medical Records: If you have children, start the school enrollment process for your new district. Transfer medical, dental, and veterinary records.

Plan for Valuables & Important Documents: Decide how you'll personally transport jewelry, important papers (birth certificates, passports, financial documents), and irreplaceable sentimental items. These should always stay with you.

The Final Countdown: One Month to Moving Day & Beyond

The final month brings a flurry of activity, but with your planning, you'll feel in control. This section of your timeline for moving a house will keep you on track.

• One Month Out:
  
  • Confirm Utilities: Schedule disconnects for your old home and hook-ups for your new Bellingham address. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable.
  • Forward Mail: Set up mail forwarding with the post office.
  • Gather Packing Supplies: Acquire all necessary boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and packing paper.
  • Use Up Perishables: Start eating through your frozen and pantry items.
  • Pet/Child Care Arrangements: If needed, arrange for care on moving day.
  • Confirm with Movers: Double-check all details with your chosen moving labor. For specific inquiries about our services, don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to answer any questions you might have.

• Two Weeks Out:
  
  • Finish Most Packing: Aim to have 80-90% of your home packed. Keep essentials separate.
  • Confirm Travel Plans: If you're flying or driving a long distance, finalize arrangements.
  • Clean Out Your Fridge/Freezer: Plan meals to empty these before the move.
  • Back Up Computers: Crucial for protecting your digital life.
  • Charge Electronics: Make sure phones, laptops, and tablets are fully charged.

• One Week Out:
  
  • Pack an "Essentials Box": This box should contain everything you'll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, basic tools, snacks, important documents, and pet supplies.
  • Defrost Freezer: If applicable, do this a few days before the move to avoid leaks.
  • Confirm Final Details: Double-check times and locations with our team for loading and unloading.
  • Get Cash: For tips for movers or unexpected incidentals.

• Moving Day!
  
  • Protect Your Home: Lay down floor coverings or old blankets to protect floors at both locations.
  • Supervise: Be present to answer questions and guide the moving labor crew.
  • Final Walk-Through: Do a thorough check of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.‍
  • Breathe! You've planned meticulously, and now it's time to enjoy the culmination of your efforts.

Moving to Bellingham, WA, whether across town or across the country, is an adventure. With this checklist for moving to Bellingham WA and the reliable hands of Thumbs Up Moving Labor, you can approach your moving day with confidence and calm. Don't forget to check out our glowing reviews to see how we've helped others achieve a stress-free move.