Moving from one home to another can be a real source of stress and cause chaos in your daily routine. Sorting through your belongings, coordinating with the moving company, updating your address… The list of tasks seems endless. However, despite all the daunting challenges, there is a simple solution to make this chaos go a little smoother and faster. In this case, it is a moving checklist.
Whether you are preparing for your first move on your own or moving to a bigger home with your growing family, this checklist will guide you to a stress-free move. The list, created by SPACE24 moving and storage experts, includes all the essential tasks – from preparations 6 weeks before the move to the final hours.
Moving Checklist for a Smooth Transition
Moving to Lithuania is an exciting step! If you have already had a chance to get to know Lithuania a little, you know what a great place it is to start a family, study, or develop a business. However, before embarking on this new adventure, there are a few tasks you will need to complete to make your move as easy and stress-free as possible. Here is a complete list of tasks to help you start this new chapter in your life.
6 Weeks Before Moving
Eliminating Clutter
Eliminating clutter is the first step that can significantly ease the moving process and help you experience as little stress as possible. Start with the small things: first, organise the items you use less often, and set aside time on weekends for intensive organising.
As you go through your belongings, ask yourself: Do I really need this item? Have I used it in the last 6 months? If not, it may be time to say goodbye to it. Consider donating or selling items you no longer need. For rarely used items that you don’t have room for, item storage can be a great solution when moving.
Purchase Packing Materials
Now that you’ve cleared out the clutter and sorted through your most essential items, it’s time to purchase packing materials and set them aside for the move. Having the essentials will ensure a smooth packing process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes;
- Packing tape;
- Bubble wrap or packing paper;
- Markers;
- Scissors or a box cutter.
Before you start buying supplies, estimate how many boxes you will need based on the size of your home and the number of items you have. It is always a good idea to get a few extra supplies in case you find some lost items or simply start packing at the last minute.
Inspect and Repair Damage
Taking care of small details in your home can go a long way toward getting your deposit back or attracting the right tenants. Walk around your home and see it with fresh eyes: note any areas that need attention, such as chipped paint, loose door handles, or damaged appliances. When repairing these defects, be sure to use high-quality materials and, most importantly, take your time. If you are not sure whether you can do the repairs yourself, save yourself time and hire a professional. Why burden yourself with additional stress when it can be avoided, right?
Change Your Address
Changing your address is essential for keeping in touch with loved ones and receiving important mail and documents. It also helps prevent any disruption to services or subscriptions. Make a list of all organisations, companies, or individuals that need to be notified of your change of address. This may include:
- Government agencies: e.g., the postal service;
- Financial institutions: banks, credit card companies, and insurance providers;
- Utility companies: electricity, gas, water, internet, and telephone service providers;
- Subscription services: magazines, newspapers, streaming services, and mail-order catalogues;
- Healthcare providers: doctors, dentists, and pharmacies;
- Schools and employers: update your address by providing it to your children’s schools and your place(s) of employment;
- Memberships: gym memberships, clubs, and professional organisations.
Don’t forget to declare your place of residence! Not sure how? Check out our detailed guide on how to declare your place of residence in Lithuania.
Organise Your Moving Services
Whether you’re moving with professionals or relying on friends’ help, the most important thing is to create a transportation plan. Find out about moving companies or van rental options in Lithuania, and don’t forget to ask your friends and family for recommendations. Planning a move can be difficult, so allow yourself enough time to analyse everything and book services.
3 Weeks Before Moving
Start Packing
With three weeks to go before moving day, you will have enough time to handle the packing tasks without rushing. Start collecting packing materials and designate the least used room for packing. Pack step by step – focus on one category of items, and once you have packed it, move on to the next. When packing, be sure to label each box with its contents and destination so that it will be easier to find everything and unpack all your belongings after the move. Don’t forget to set aside the essentials you will need until moving day, such as toiletries and a few changes of clothes (see the list of essentials below).
Transferring Utilities
As the moving day approaches, don’t forget to take care of the important task of transferring or completely disconnecting your utilities. This task will require contacting your utility providers, such as electricity, gas, water, internet, and telephone service providers, to inform them of your move and arrange for the transfer of services to your new location or their disconnection.
Provide them with your new address and moving date to ensure that everything goes smoothly. At the same time, before arriving at your new residence, make sure these services are already set up there.
Prepare Your Pets
When planning your move, don’t forget to consider your little family members! Here’s how to prepare your pets for the move:
- Update ID tags and microchips: Make sure your pet’s ID tags have your current contact information, and if they don’t, consider getting them updated before moving to your new home;
- Plan pet-friendly accommodations: if you are travelling a long distance, choose pet-friendly hotels or accommodations along your route;
- Pack a kit with your pet’s essentials: include food, water, bowls, toys, bedding, litter (for cats), waste bags (for dogs), and any medication your pet may need during the move;
- Make sure your pet feels comfortable during the move: stick to your usual feeding and walking schedule as much as possible, and ensure your pet feels cosy and calm, especially on moving day;
- Create a safe space: when you arrive at your new home, set aside a quiet, comfortable place where your pet can adjust to the new environment and feel safe while you unpack and settle in.
1 Week Before Moving
Pack a bag with essential items
This bag should contain everything you might need during the first few days in your new home. Here are a few ideas of what to put in it:
- Documents, such as ID cards and other important documents;
- Toiletries and toilet paper (you never know when you might need them!);
- A towel for a quick refresh;
- Comfy pajamas;
- Hand washing and disinfecting supplies;
- A change of clothes;
- A first aid kit and any medications you may need;
- A phone charger and power bank;
- A few snacks to keep your energy up during the move.
- Move Your Belongings to A Storage Unit
- Moving your belongings to storage is a smart way to free up space during the move and ensure they remain safe until you need them again. Whether you hire a moving company or do it yourself, it is very important to pack your belongings securely and use padding (such as bubble wrap or blankets for fragile items).
When unpacking, safely unpack valuable items using the provided moving equipment, and leave enough space to easily access your belongings if necessary. Not sure how much space you’ll need for your move? Check out our online size calculator.
1 Day Before Moving
Confirm the Time With the Moving Company
We recommend contacting the moving company the day before the move. Call them to confirm the exact details, such as the arrival time and any specific instructions they may need to find your address easily.
Final Check
Before saying goodbye to your old home, do a final check. Carefully inspect your home and make sure that every corner is tidy and empty. Take the time to look in every cupboard and drawer to make sure nothing has been forgotten or left behind.
Simplify Your Next Move With SPACE24
Want to simplify your move? While our checklist is certainly helpful, moving storage is a step above. Whether you need short-term storage during your move or a long-term solution, SPACE24 offers a wide range of storage solutions in Vilnius, Lithuania, for every situation and need. Get a storage price in just a few clicks or contact our team of specialists by phone at +370 600 10009 for more information.