10 Most Commonly Forgotten Tasks

Most people only move a few times in their life, and it can be difficult to think of every task. There are so many big “to dos” looming that many of the smaller things can be forgotten. When these small tasks pop up on moving day, however, they can create big chaos!

That’s why we polled our team of dedicated Move Coordinators for their list of the most forgotten moving tasks, so you can make sure to add them to your list.

1. Properly label any and all moving boxes

Packing can be so chaotic that it’s difficult to remember to properly label each box. However, you’re going to save yourself a lot of confusion and stress in your new home if you label your box with four things:

• Your name
• Box location
• Box contents
• Importance

For example, a well labeled box might say, “J. Doe/Kitchen/Pans/Open First” so you and the moving team know that box should be placed in the kitchen and be easily accessible. That way, you aren’t pulling open every box to try to find the pans you need for your first breakfast in your new home.

2. Check infrequently used storage areas

Perfect examples of infrequently used areas are the drawer under your stove and the cabinet above your fridge. This is where we tend to put items and forget about them until we need them.

If you don’t take a critical look around your house for these areas, items might be left behind. Or, when you’re busy with moving day you’ll suddenly remember and then have unpacked items to deal with.

Attics and basements are areas that people often forget about when planning out their move packing schedule. Tackle these areas first, since there are likely a lot of items to get rid of in these areas, and you may even need to work in a yard sale.

Garages also hold many non-allowable items or items that have to be adjusted in order to move. For example, batteries, lawn and garden chemicals, and aerosol spray cans cannot be taken with you on your move. If you have gas lawn care equipment, it will need to be approved by your mover, and if so, completely drained and cleaned in order to be moved.

3. Plan to be around the full move day and do a final walk through

You do need to set aside the entire day to supervise your move. No one knows your goods as well as you do, and issues, concerns, and questions do pop up in the moment. You’ll want to make sure you have undivided attention to give to the moving crew and ensure you understand the process and are directing them properly.

4. Remove the ink and toner from printers

It can be an absolute mess. Just trust us.

5. Finish laundry and air out your washer

Mold can be a big issue in a move, and it is caused by improper packing and move preparation. You must finish your laundry and air out your washing machine for at least two to three days ahead of time.

This way, your washer will be completely dry, and you’ll avoid odors or (worst case scenario) mold. This is also true of anything that might contain hidden moisture, such as lawn or pool furniture, which must also be dry before transporting.

6. Empty, clean and defrost your fridge in advance

For the same reasons that you need to air out your washing machine ahead of your move, you need to do the same with your refrigerator. Start meal planning to clear out your fridge over a week in advance of your move, giving yourself enough time to defrost it for two or three days ahead of time. We also recommend putting baking soda in a nylon stocking to avoid odors.

You’ll also want to factor this into your budget – either focus on pantry staples for those two or three days when your fridge is drying out, or factor in paying to eat out.

7. Empty and clean all garbage cans prior to moving day

This can be another easy source of mold or odors in a shipment. Your moving crew will arrive ready to go and will quickly move through your home picking things up and putting them on the truck.

Ensure all trash cans are empty and clean, because your moving team might not notice if a garbage can has something still in it. Even an errant banana peel can create an issue for your shipment. If your trash can is at all sticky or has food residue on it, or even built up moisture, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry it ahead of your move as well.

8. Create a “Staying” area for important items

Make sure to set aside a closet or room that only has items in it that will not be taken by the movers.

This could be the clothing you’ll be taking with you, sentimental items such as family pictures or children’s toys, and anything like expensive jewelry or important documents.

When you’re doing the pre-move walkthrough, point it out to your movers so the items in it don’t end up in your shipment. Better yet, tape a sign indicating it’s a “no move room” or “staying” so there is no confusion.

9. Plan and create a first night box

Create and mark a “first night” box that has all of the things you’ll need your first night or few days in your new home. This way, you are ready to stay in your new home upon arrival without a shopping trip. This means toilet paper, towels, soap, paper plates/utensils/cups, coffee, etc, for the kitchen and bathrooms. Sheets for bedrooms, and any comfort items for your children, cans of pet food and anything you’ll need to work remotely.

Make sure you take time while you’re packing to make a thoughtful list of everything that needs to go in your first night box(es). The last thing you want on your first night in your new home is to be digging through random boxes to find a wine opener!

10. Save yourself some money

Moving is expensive, and every little bit counts. If you’re moving interstate, using an eCheck saves you 1% vs using a credit card. Make sure to plan for this type of transaction so you aren’t scrambling on moving day or paying extra unnecessarily.

Where are you moving next? Reach out to Suddath about a local, long distance or international move.