10 Things to Do Before Moving Day

Preparing for a move—especially one that involves downsizing or estate liquidation—can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re transitioning into a smaller space, clearing out a loved one’s home, or simply relocating to a new chapter, being organized ahead of time can make all the difference. At Hilltop Moving & Estate Liquidation, we’ve helped countless families navigate major life transitions, and we know that the key to a stress-free move is solid preparation.

Here are 10 essential things to do before moving day arrives.

1. Start Early with a Plan

Create a moving timeline at least 4–6 weeks out. Outline key tasks like hiring movers, scheduling estate liquidation services, transferring utilities, and notifying change-of-address contacts. The earlier you start, the more manageable everything becomes.

2. Declutter and Sort Your Belongings

Before you start packing, take time to sort through each room. Set aside items to keep, donate, sell, or discard. If you’re handling an estate, this is also when you'll want to identify valuables for appraisal or liquidation. Decluttering early reduces moving costs and makes your move more efficient. At hilltop, we can take care of as little or as much as this organizing process with you.

3. Schedule Estate Liquidation Services

If you're managing an estate, schedule a professional liquidation in advance. Our team at Hilltop Moving & Estate Liquidation can help you organize, sell, and clear out belongings through a structured and respectful process. This step is crucial if you're under a timeline to sell or vacate a property.

4. Gather Packing Materials and Label Clearly

Have plenty of boxes, tape, paper wrap, bubble wrap, and markers. Label boxes by room and contents, and mark anything fragile. We always tell our clients that we can step in at any point to help them pack up belongings, if you do not feel comfortable packing something fragile, run out of time to pack, not quite sure how to pack something safely or just don’t feel up to it, our crew can help.

5. Transfer Utilities and Services

Call your electric, gas, water, internet, and security providers to set disconnection and reconnection dates. Be sure to notify your bank, insurance company, and postal service of your new address.

6. Pack a Moving Essentials Box

Prepare a personal box or bag with things you’ll need in the first 24–48 hours—medications, toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes, basic kitchen items, and important paperwork. Keep this box with you, not on the truck.

7. Secure Important Documents

Set aside personal records like wills, deeds, medical information, financial documents, and IDs. Whether you’re relocating or handling an estate, these items should always be kept safe and accessible.

8. Take Inventory of Major Items

Make a list of larger items—furniture, electronics, appliances—and note their condition. If you're using professional movers or liquidation services, this documentation can help resolve any issues that may arise.

9. Confirm All Moving Details

A few days before the move, reconfirm dates, times, addresses, and any special instructions with your moving and estate liquidation team. At Hilltop Moving & Estate Liquidation, we always try to keep an open line of communication to keep things moving.

10. Prepare the Home for Exit

Empty the fridge, defrost the freezer, and take out all trash. Leave behind any keys, garage openers, or documents for the new owner. A final walk-through helps ensure nothing important gets left behind.

Final Thoughts

Moving can be more than just a change of address—it’s often an emotional and logistical transition. Whether you’re managing your own move or settling a loved one’s estate, staying ahead of the process will save you time, stress, and money. At Hilltop Moving & Estate Liquidation, we offer compassionate, full-service support for both moving and estate liquidation, helping you close one chapter and start the next with confidence.

Need help? Contact us today to learn how we can simplify your move or estate cleanout from start to finish. (203) 464-7525