Pre-Move Preparation Guide

1. ✅ Know Your Moving Timeline

• Confirm your closing date with your agent or lender.

• Plan your move-in date at least 3–5 days after closing to allow time for potential delays.

• Book your movers early — Garrett’s Hauling recommends scheduling 2–4 weeks in advance.

• Renting? Notify your landlord and provide the required written notice to avoid penalties.

2. 🧹 Start Decluttering Early

• Go room by room and sort through your belongings.

• Label items clearly: Keep • Donate • Trash • Store.

• Hosting a yard sale or listing items online can lighten the load and even make a few bucks!

• For investors: Remove or store any leftover items from previous tenants.

3. ⚡ Set Up New Home Essentials

• Schedule utility transfers or activations:
  Electricity • Gas • Water • Internet • Trash Pickup

• Submit a Change of Address with USPS online.

• Update your address with:

  • Banks & credit cards

  • Insurance providers

  • Tennessee DMV (driver’s license & registration)

  • Employer, subscriptions, and memberships

4. 📦 Plan Your Packing Strategy

• Begin packing 3–4 weeks before your move — a little at a time.

• Clearly label each box with the room + contents.

• Pack a “Moving Day Essentials” bag with:
  Clothes, toiletries, medications, phone chargers, and important documents.

• Wrap fragile or high-value items with extra care.

• For investors: Secure tools, supplies, or staging equipment separately.

5. 🚚 Book Trusted Movers

• Hire a licensed and insured team that knows the Memphis area — like Garrett’s Hauling.

• Ask about specialty services: pianos, safes, antiques, and more.

• Always request a written estimate to avoid surprises.

• Our friendly, careful movers treat your belongings like their own.

6. 📅 Prep for Moving Day

• Confirm mover arrival time 1–2 days before.

• If applicable, reserve elevator access or parking spaces in advance.

• Prepare snacks, drinks, and a cooler for the day.

• Supervise the loading and unloading process.

• Do a final sweep of every space:
  Closets • Cabinets • Garage • Attic

7. 🏡 Welcome to Your New Home

• Conduct a full walkthrough and note any existing damage or maintenance issues.

• If time allows, do a deep clean before unpacking.

• Set up essential rooms first — start with the bedrooms and kitchen.

• Unpack intentionally to avoid clutter and burnout.

• Introduce yourself to the neighbors and explore your new community.