A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for Los Angeles

The moving process doesn’t need to cause anxiety, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Starving Students, our team has assisted countless Los Angeles customers with moving since 1973. Now we’re sharing some of that experience with you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. Our goal is to make your move the smoothest one yet.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Create a digital or paper folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• Collect all invoices and setup records
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• Choose a safe but handy spot for your paperwork

Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

• Set aside things you want to bring to your new place
• List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
• Reserve a bin or plan to deliver discards to a facility
• Sort belongings into keep, donate, sell, or discard piles

Give Away Items You Don’t Need

• Go through belongings and choose items to donate
• Schedule a pickup or drop off with Goodwill, Salvation Army, or another charity
• Place all donation items together in one spot, ready for pickup
• Share useful items with your social circle

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• Try selling extras through digital marketplaces
• Use good images and descriptions to attract buyers
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Gather price tags, tables, and small bills for making change

Important Documents

• Find all your essential documents early
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• 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)
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Documenting Your Valuables

• Photograph valuable possessions for records
• Upload all images to a secure storage account
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

Using Up Restricted Items

• Finish your fresh food before move day
• Get rid of paint, aerosols, and similar restricted items
• Set aside anything you're not allowed to move, and make a plan to dispose of it properly

Utility Arrangements

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Confirm that your new place has the right utilities, gas for a gas stove for example
• Call each company to arrange your move-out timing
• Coordinate new connections so you’re never without power or internet
• Write down all service confirmations and keep them handy

Managing Banking and Storage

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Decide on a secure way to move sensitive or pricey items
• Walk through every area to confirm everything is packed up

Letting Everyone Know Where You’re Going

• File a change of address form to reroute your mail
• Change your details with banks, insurers, and monthly subscriptions

Informing Schools and Medical Providers

• Tell your kids' schools and your doctors, dentist, and vet about your move
• Ask about transferring any records you'll need at your new place

Child & Pet Care

• Bring entertainment, snacks, and favorite things for the trip
• Double-check all essentials and prescriptions are packed
• If using a pet sitter or daycare, book early and confirm drop-off/pick-up times
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Time Off Work

• Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
• Let your boss and coworkers know about your move so they can plan around your absence
• Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
• Complete time-sensitive projects ahead of schedule
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Getting to Know Your New Area

Preparing the Layout of Your New Place

• Create a simple floor plan for your new home and decide where you want your furniture and large items to go
• Check the dimensions of entryways and stairs in advance
• Double-check the size of your new rooms so you don't end up with furniture that's too big or too small
• Snap photos for easy reference when arranging furniture
• Mark boxes and items clearly to speed up delivery

Keeping Your Most Important Items Safe

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• Don’t risk sentimental objects—bring them along in your car

Organizing Keys and Access Before Your Move

• Gather every key, remote, and code you’ll need on moving day
• Organize every entry tool in one place and label clearly

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

• Reach out to both locations to confirm all requirements
• Ask if you need to provide insurance certificates for the movers
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• 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)
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• Make a checklist of any areas you want the cleaners to pay special attention to
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

How to Handle Items Kept in Storage

• Let the storage company know your plans for pick-up
• Choose whether you want to transfer storage items personally
• 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

Notifying Neighbors

• Let your neighbors know your moving date so they can expect extra activity and moving trucks
• Warn about possible disruptions to shared areas or parking
• Apologize in advance for any disturbance caused by the move

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• 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

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Keeping Important Items Safe

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Use sturdy boxes or bags for these items and keep them in a safe spot
• Mark these items clearly so movers don’t accidentally pack them

Essentials Box/Bag

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• 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
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Arranging Medications for Your Move

• Set up prescription transfers so nothing is missed
• Make sure you have enough medication to last through the move, just in case there are any delays

Preparing Major Appliances for Safe Transport

• Pull the plug on every major appliance before moving day
• Remove everything from refrigerators and freezers
• Clean the inside thoroughly to avoid odors
• Allow enough time to defrost your freezer in advance
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Select tough boxes and write clear descriptions on each
• Layer extra padding around anything delicate
• Look over your items one last time before moving day

Confirm Moving Day Details

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Make sure you have contact info handy for the moving team on the day

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Bring together every moving-related document you’ll need
• Make sure keys and passes for every property are on hand
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Store all paperwork and small essentials for easy access

Pack Suitcases with Essentials

• Prepare a travel bag for everyone with all necessary basics like a few changes of clothes and toiletries
• Add comfort items, electronics, and quick-grab essentials to each bag

Set Aside Important Documents and Valuables

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• 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
• Reduce what you bring by shedding extras now
• Search all storage nooks before you finish

Set Aside Cash for the Big 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
• Give all necessary information to those watching your loved ones

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
• Make sure nothing is left behind and everything is ready for the next resident

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
• Plan for extra help to monitor movers or installations

Prepare Refrigerator

• Take out everything from both compartments
• Unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open to defrost
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

• Freshen up the interior with a cleaning run or thorough wipe
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Stabilize the drum according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Leave the door open for a few hours to let any last moisture evaporate

Closing Out Your Old Place

• Stay available to answer any questions and give directions to the movers as they work
• Point out any items that need special care or are not being moved

• Go room by room while movers log your possessions
• Make sure all your items are on the official moving inventory

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Check all doors and windows are secure before departure
• Power down everything before you lock up

• Walk through all spaces to double-check for leftovers
• Look behind doors and in drawers for any last items

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

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

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

• Provide clear directions for box placement and setup
• Create visual aids so nothing gets misplaced

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Snap pictures as proof for your insurance

• Test all major systems as soon as you move in
• Make sure all machines work before unpacking further

• Snap pictures of all meter readings for reference
• Keep all documentation on file for disputes

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Start with Must-Have Items

• Open up boxes with your most-used essentials first
• Make the beds so everyone can rest easily

• 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

• Go online or visit the DMV to update licenses and registration info
• If you've moved to a new state or city, register your car as required by local laws
• Register pets with the appropriate local authorities

• Go out and make connections in your new nieghborhood
• Being welcoming can help you feel connected right away

• Give movers the praise or suggestions they deserve

• Save all your moving documents, receipts, and contracts in one place
• Store documents safely for tax season or reimbursement

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Don’t pack these items in the truck—keep them handy for comfort and emergencies

• Before unplugging your TV, computer, or entertainment center, take clear photos of the cable connections and setup
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Pack a bag with pajamas, toiletries, towels, and bedding for each family member
• Include anything you'll want for a comfortable first night—like favorite pillows or a nightlight for kids

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Let all your subscription providers know where to send things

• Make a list of key emergency numbers for your new area—local police, fire department, nearest hospital, and a 24-hour pharmacy
• Store emergency numbers on paper and electronically

Need Help With Your Los Angeles Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in Los Angeles, Starving Students is known for great service at prices that fit your budget.

• Reputation – Trusted by Los Angeles families and businesses alike since 1973
• Expertise – Every move is managed by skilled and careful staff
• Smart Savings – Our goal is to keep your moving costs as low as possible

Don't stress about your upcoming move – trust the moving team from Starving Students to manage your move from start to finish while you plan your next adventure. We give every relocation our personal attention!

Get Your Free Los Angeles Moving Quote or phone our team at (323) 379-0774 today!