A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Ventura

The moving process doesn’t need to cause anxiety, and it will be easier if you have a solid plan in place. At Starving Students, our team has assisted countless Ventura customers with moving since 1973. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Keep Documents in Order

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Store all major agreements and service documents together
• Keep track of all receipts, bills, and expenses in one location
• Have address update info and emergency contacts ready to go
• Store this folder somewhere easy to access, and consider making digital backups of the most important papers

Sort & Simplify Before You Move

• Started a keep pile
• Decide what to sell and put up ads or schedule a sale
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Label your stuff by what stays, goes, or gets tossed

Donation Pickups

• Select gently used things for charity
• Arrange logistics for charitable drop-offs or pickups
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Give items to family, friends, or neighbors

Selling Unwanted Items

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Get ready for a physical sale if you want fast results
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Keep Crucial Papers to Keep Close

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Gather insurance papers, financial information, and school records
• Choose a protective option for sensitive papers
• Store paperwork where you can grab it fast

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Write down everything you’re moving
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Highlight items requiring extra protection or handling

Photos for Insurance

• Take clear photos of high-value items
• Back up your photos digitally for easy access later
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

Clearing Out Non-Movable Goods

• Plan meals to use up anything that won’t keep
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Setting Up Your Utilities

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Double-check that services like gas or water are connected at the new home
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Set up start dates for all your utilities at the new address so everything's ready when you arrive
• Double-check your appointments and keep a list of confirmation numbers, just in case

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• If changing banks (long distance move) make plans for emptying out your safe deposit box before moving day
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Coordinate your access ahead of moving day
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Inspect the unit before leaving to avoid forgotten items

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• Make sure your mail is redirected by notifying the postal service
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Notifying Schools & Healthcare Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Child & Pet Care

• Pack a bag with snacks, toys, and comfort items to keep them happy and occupied
• Make sure you have any medications or special items your child or pet might need for the day
• Arrange care and confirm schedules for pets in advance
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Time Off Work

• Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Activate a message to manage expectations for responses
• Tie up loose ends before you leave for moving day
• Book your internet installation in advance for remote work

Getting to Know Your New Area

Planning Your New Space

• Create a simple floor plan for your new home and decide where you want your furniture and large items to go
• Make sure there’s a clear path for oversized items
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Assign each item to a specific room for quick organization

Packing Necessities and Priceless Belongings

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Pack a small bag with chargers, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes for each family member
• Keep your wallet, keys, and phone handy on moving day
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Managing Entry and Exit

• Make sure nothing gets left behind for entry or exit
• Keep keys and cards handy for a smooth move-in

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Double-check with both your old and new buildings about any move-in or move-out requirements
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• See if you should book parking or elevator slots in advance
• Complete all forms before moving day to avoid delays
• Make sure you know the allowed moving hours for each building to avoid surprises

Making Sure Both Homes Are Clean

• Book a cleaning service for your old home after you move out, so it's ready for the next person (and to help get your deposit back)
• Arrange for a cleaning at your new place before you move in, so it's fresh and ready for your things
• Highlight important rooms or surfaces for cleaning crews
• Be sure you have what you need for a full DIY clean

Storage Access or Transfer

• If you have items in a storage unit, contact the facility to arrange access on or before moving day
• Pick who’s in charge of moving your stored belongings
• Make a list of what's in storage and label boxes or items for easy identification
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• Tell neighbors when you’ll be moving so they’re prepared
• Give them a heads-up if parking or shared spaces will be affected
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• Check if you need a parking permit or street reservation for the moving truck at either location
• Reach out to arrange for street reservations or permits
• Mark the space with cones or signs the night before, if allowed, to save the spot for the truck

Utility Arrangements

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Confirm the start and stop dates with each provider so you're not left without service

Preparing Personal Belongings for the Move

• Set aside items that you’ll carry yourself for added peace of mind
• Protect valuables by using strong packing boxes and storing them nearby
• Clearly label these boxes or bags as "Do Not Move" so the movers know to leave them with you

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Pack a box or bag with things you'll need right away at your new home-think toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, and a few days' worth of clothes
• Have your emergency kit or first-night bag within arm’s reach

Returning Loaned/Borrowed Items Before the Move

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Drop off everything you’ve borrowed to the right owners

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Set up prescription transfers so nothing is missed
• Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out during the transition

Getting Appliances Ready for the Move

• Disconnect all large kitchen and laundry appliances
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Thaw freezers so water doesn't cause trouble in transit
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Pack Up Remaining Non-Essential Belongings

• Pack everything you won’t use right away
• Choose strong boxes and mark contents
• Keep fragile items well-protected with padding
• Confirm all boxes are closed, taped, and good to go

Final Check-In with Your Movers

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Get Your Paperwork Organized

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Write down or save essential phone numbers for fast help
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Get Suitcases Packed

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Keep Your Critical Documents and Valuables Safe

• Gather passports, birth certificates, insurance papers, and other important documents
• Collect jewelry, cash, and other valuables
• Make sure valuables stay with you, not in the moving truck

Final Declutter

• Do one last sweep through your home to find anything you no longer need
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Prepare Cash for Moving Day

• Withdraw enough cash for tips and on-the-go purchases

Make Sure Caregivers Are Ready for Kid or Pets

• Reconfirm the schedule and drop-off times
• Make sure communication is clear for hand-offs and updates

Prepare Garbage Cans for the Next Resident

• Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• Ask a friend or family member to be at your new home to accept deliveries or let in utility technicians if you can't be there yourself
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

Prepare Refrigerator

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Make sure no moisture remains to avoid unpleasant smells

Prepare Your Washer for the Move

• Sanitize the inside to remove soap and residue
• Let it air out so there’s no dampness left
• If you have a front-loading washer, secure the drum with moving bolts to protect it during the move
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Remain close by to clarify details or address special requests
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Walk through each room with the movers as they take inventory of your belongings
• Make sure all your items are on the official moving inventory

• Confirm each box has its final room marked
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Do a final security sweep to close up the property
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Open every compartment for hidden belongings

• Leave all necessary keys, garage door openers, and gate remotes for the new occupants
• Share important details about the home’s systems or routines

At Your New Home

• Show up early to prepare for unloading
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Use your floor plan or notes to show the movers exactly where you want each piece of furniture and each box
• Put up temporary signs to help movers navigate

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Look for dents or scratches before the movers leave

• If you notice any damage or problems, make a note of it on the moving paperwork before you sign anything
• Create visual evidence for claims if needed

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Test major appliances like the stove, fridge, and washer/dryer to be sure they're running properly

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Store pictures as proof for future utility claims

• Think about rekeying or upgrading for your safety
• Always confirm with your landlord before altering entry systems

Get the Basics Out Right Away

• Open up boxes with your most-used essentials first
• Set up beds and make sure everyone has what they need for the first night

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Explain exactly where to place your belongings as you unpack

• Flatten boxes and collect all packing materials
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Update your address on your driver's license, car registration, and voter registration
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Leave a review or feedback for your moving company to help others and let the team know how they did

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Keep paperwork in case you need to reference it later

• Pack a small bag or box with phone chargers, daily medications, snacks, and bottled water so you can grab them easily during the move
• Carry your essentials personally to avoid any last-minute scrambling

• Snap pictures of the back of your devices before taking them apart
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Set out bedding and basics so bedtime is easy
• Bring extra things to make your family feel at home right away

• Submit a mail forwarding request with the post office so you don't miss important letters or packages
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Ventura Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Ventura, Starving Students sets the standard for value and customer care.

• Dependability – Relied on by countless Ventura customers for since 1973
• Expertise – Every move is managed by skilled and careful staff
• Affordable Results – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Don't stress about your upcoming move – count on the professionals at Starving Students to take care of every detail so you can start fresh. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free Ventura Moving Quote or phone our team at (805) 212-7542 right now!