PODS Moving checklist

Moving checklist & tips for moving

Stay Organized With Our Moving Checklist

Whether you’re just moving across the street or across the country, there are lots of things to keep track of when you’re relocating your life. This checklist provides smart moving tips to help you stay focused and in control. Download the checklist now or view below.

The PODS Moving and Storage Advantage

With PODS you get personalized support and flexibility designed around you. With built-in storage, you don’t have to worry about rushing your move, and you can pack and load at your own pace. With over 6 million moves completed, you can rest assured that PODS has the experience to help you with your move, no matter how complex.
 
Storage unit checklist

Download your printable moving checklist

Want a printable copy of this checklist? Click the button below or view the entire checklist below.
Download your moving checklist

PODS Moving Checklist
 

The first steps to moving

Confirm your move

Make sure your PODS container is scheduled to arrive to allow enough time to load all your belongings. You may want to have it as early as a few days, weeks, or even a month before your move date.

Make sure you have enough space for your PODS container rental

Check that you have enough space for the PODS container. You’ll need 12' in width, 15’ in height, 40’ in length. Paved surfaces are preferred.

Necessary permits for your PODS container

  • Check to see if your homeowners’ association, or apartment or condo complex, has any restrictions regarding the placement of portable containers on, or near, your residence.

  • If you’re considering placing your container on the street, check with local authorities to see if it’s allowed and if a permit is required. If a permit is needed, the PODS driver will not be able to deliver your container without it. In most cases, your PODS specialist can help determine if street placement is allowed or permits are required in your area.

  • If your container will be traveling to or through California, submit your state-required invasive species forms at least five days before transit by logging in to your MyPODS.com account.
 

Decluttering & cleaning tips for before your move

Inventory your belongings

Inventory your belongings and begin removing clutter. Start with your attic, basement, garage, and other storage areas.

What you will keep for your new home

Create a floor plan of your new home to plan for furniture and appliance placement.

Consider a garage sale or donating

  • If necessary, prepare to hold a garage sale three weeks before you move to get rid of any clutter. Hold your garage sale or sell items online through websites such as Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp.

  • Arrange for donation services, like the Salvation Army, to pick up the rest.

 

 

The best packing tips for moving

Staying organized while packing

Start organizing and packing your belongings. Make sure to label your moving boxes as you pack to help make unpacking smoother. Visit PODS.com/loading to watch our video on packing and loading. If you decide you need additional PODS containers for your move, give us a call.

Consider helpful packing & loading services

If you need help with your move, start collecting quotes from packing and loading companies. We’re happy to refer you to trusted local labor providers.

Where to buy your moving supplies

Order moving supplies from PODSBoxes.com. Moving blankets can be rented or purchased from most PODS locations. Your PODS moving specialist can help you with this while scheduling your container for delivery.

 

The final touches you may forget

Disconnect and turn off your utilities

  • Schedule the disconnection of utility services at your old home for the day after you move. If you have any "final month" deposits, be sure to request your refund. If possible, schedule the connection of utility services for the day before you arrive at your new home.

  • If you're moving within the United States, file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service and pick up the USPS Mover's Guide at your local post office.

Updating your address and vehicle registration

  • If you’re moving within the United States, file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service and pick up the USPS Mover’s Guide at your local post office.

  • If you’re moving to a new state, research what you’ll need to do to update your vehicle registration.

  • Contact your insurance provider to ensure proper coverage for your home and vehicle at your new location.

  • Transfer all your prescriptions to your new pharmacy, and make sure you have an adequate supply of medications during your move.

  • Update your address or cancel your newspaper and magazine subscriptions.

Gather your personal belongings and original documents

Gather your personal and family records, including medical, dental, veterinary, and school records; legal and financial documents; and birth certificates, passports, and insurance documents, to keep with you.

Clean out your refrigerator

  • Begin using up frozen foods and cleaning supplies that cannot be moved.

  • Empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator and freezer.

Pack your "Day of" bag

  • Pack a bag with your checkbook, credit cards, identification, flashlight, keys, and phone charger.

  • If you’re moving long distance, pack toiletries, paper plates and cups, towels, a travel alarm clock, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and games for the kids as well.

  • Pack a suitcase with clothing and other personal items.

  • If you have a laptop or tablet, keep it with you, because you may not get around to unpacking and connecting your TV for a few days.

Confirm & finalize your moving details

  • Confirm your PODS container pickup, delivery date, and the address of your new home by logging in to your MyPODS.com account.

  • Finish loading your PODS container.

  • Make sure you have the keys to the lock on your PODS container.

  • Confirm your travel reservations if necessary.
 

The day of your big move

Keep your family and friends up to date

  • Notify everyone who will need to contact you at your new address.

  • Keep a friend or family member informed of your moving schedule and contact information in case of an emergency or unexpected event.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your space

  • Check the attic and every room, cabinet, and closet one last time before deciding everything is loaded.

  • Set aside any items that will travel separately with you.

  • Leave a note with your contact information in the house, so the new residents can forward stray mail or items left behind.

While unpacking, take note of all your items

While unloading your belongings from your PODS container at your new home, check your stuff carefully, and make a note of any damaged items.

 

Other Moving Services

Get boxes, tape, blankets, bubble cushioning, and everything else you need delivered to your door.

 

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