The Ultimate Moving Checklist for Portland Residents

Posted: Dec 05, 2024

Moving can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and organization, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating within Portland or coming from out of town, this comprehensive moving checklist will help ensure your move goes smoothly. Let’s break it down step by step.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

De-clutter Your Home

• Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss.
• Host a garage sale or post items on local selling platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

Research Moving Companies

• Get quotes from local Portland movers like ‘Pack My Truck Moving.’
• Check reviews and ensure the company is licensed and insured.

Create a Moving Budget

• Factor in costs like movers, packing supplies, cleaning services, and utility transfers.

Notify Your Landlord (if renting)

• Provide proper notice as required by your lease agreement.
• Schedule a move-out inspection if needed.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

Gather Packing Supplies

• Purchase or gather boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
• Consider eco-friendly options, like renting reusable moving boxes.

Start Packing Non-Essential Items

• Pack seasonal items, decorations, and other items you won’t need before the move.
• Label boxes with the room name and contents.

Update Your Address

• Submit a change of address form with USPS.
• Notify banks, insurance providers, subscriptions, and other important services.

Arrange for Time Off Work

• Request vacation days or adjust your schedule around moving day.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

Confirm Moving Details

• Finalize your moving date and time with the moving company.
• Reserve elevators or parking spots at both locations if necessary.

Transfer Utilities

• Schedule disconnection and re-connection of electricity, water, gas, and internet.
• Contact providers like Portland General Electric (PGE) or NW Natural.

Prepare an Essentials Box

• Pack items you’ll need immediately after moving, like toiletries, chargers, snacks, and important documents.

Notify Portland Schools (if applicable)

• Inform schools of your move and arrange for the transfer of records.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

Start Packing Room by Room

• Focus on one room at a time to stay organized.
• Wrap fragile items carefully and label them as fragile.

Confirm Moving Help

• Check in with your moving company or friends helping with the move.

Plan for Pets and Children

• Arrange for pet sitters or child care on moving day.

Dispose of Hazardous Materials

• Properly dispose of paint, propane, and other hazardous items. Portland’s Metro Hazardous Waste Facility can help.

1 Week Before Moving Day

Clean Your Current Home

• Deep clean each room as you finish packing.
• Hire a professional cleaning service if required by your landlord or if selling your home.

Defrost the Freezer

• Empty and clean your fridge and freezer.
• Allow them to defrost at least 24 hours before moving.

Confirm Moving Day Details

• Double-check arrival times, addresses, and contact information with your movers.

Prepare Cash for Tips

• If using professional movers, prepare cash for tipping.

Moving Day

Do a Final Walkthrough

• Check all rooms, closets, and cabinets to ensure nothing is left behind.

Supervise the Move

• Be available to answer movers’ questions and provide direction.

Take Meter Readings

• Record final utility readings for electricity, gas, and water.

Clean and Lock Up

• Do a final sweep of your old home.
• Lock all doors and return keys to your landlord or new owner.

After Moving Day

Unpack Essentials First

• Focus on items for the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.

Inspect Your New Home

• Check for any damages or issues and document them.

Settle In

• Explore your new neighborhood and introduce yourself to neighbors.

Leave a Review

• Share your experience with your moving company to help others.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you plan ahead. Use this checklist to stay organized and make your transition to a new home in Portland as smooth as possible. Need professional help? Contact ‘Pack My Truck Moving’ for reliable, stress-free moving services in the Portland Oregon area!