Moving Checklist: 4 Weeks to Moving Day in Long Beach

4 weeks out

Book your movers. Weekends, the end of the month and summer fill up first. Get a written estimate based on both addresses, the home size, stairs, elevators and parking.
Ask both buildings about move rules. Elevator reservations, move-in hours, loading docks and certificates of insurance. Send the COI requirements to your mover.
Start getting rid of things. Every piece you don't move saves time and money. Sell, donate or schedule a bulky-item pickup.
Gather packing supplies if you're packing yourself: boxes in several sizes, tape, packing paper and markers.

Start packing what you don't use daily: books, seasonal clothes, decor, the back of the closets and the garage.
Label every box with the room and a few words about what's inside.
Measure the big pieces and the doors, stairwells and elevators at the new place.
Schedule utilities. Arrange electricity, gas, water, internet and trash service at the new address, and stop service at the old one for the day after you move.

Update your address with USPS, your bank, insurance, employer and subscriptions.
Plan the truck parking at both addresses: driveway, alley, street or dock. Check street-sweeping days for your moving date.
Confirm elevator reservations and loading dock times in writing.
Use up food in the freezer and pantry.

Pack everything except daily essentials.
Confirm the details with your mover: arrival time, both addresses, access, parking and any changes in what's moving.
Take apart simple furniture if you're comfortable, and bag the hardware with the piece.
Defrost the freezer if the fridge is moving.

Pack a first-night bag: chargers, medications, toiletries, sheets, a change of clothes, basic tools and snacks.
Set aside valuables and documents to move yourself: jewelry, passports, important papers and laptops.
Empty dresser drawers of anything heavy or breakable.
Save the truck spot if you're relying on street parking.

Walk the crew through the home and point out fragile and special items.
Stay reachable to answer questions about what goes where.
Do a final walk-through: closets, cabinets, garage, balcony and storage.
At the new place, tell the crew which room is which, or tape a sign on each door.

Want help with the hardest part? See our packing services, or check typical prices in the Long Beach moving cost guide.