A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Moving Checklist for San Bernardino

Moving doesn't have to be stressful, and it gets easier with good preparation. At Starving Students, we've quite literally helped thousands of San Bernardino renters, homeowners, and businesses move since 1973. Today, we want to pass that expertise on to you, by way of this comprehensive moving checklist. We hope this makes your next move easier than ever.

8 Weeks Before Moving

Manage Your Important Papers

• Have a single spot for all moving files, physical or digital
• Include your rental agreement, purchase contract, new insurance policies, and moving company contract
• Collect all invoices and setup records
• File your mail-forwarding details and phone lists
• Make backup scans of crucial documents, just in case

Decluttering

• Begin sorting items you want to keep
• List items on eBay/Facebook, Marketplace, or scheduled yard sale
• Ordered dumpster or identified drop off place
• Sort belongings into keep, donate, sell, or discard piles

Donation Pickups

• Decide what to give to local organizations
• Book a collection or bring donations to your group of choice
• Organize donations so they’re easy to find on pickup day
• Offer things you can’t sell or donate to people you know

Make Money from What You Don’t Need

• Advertise things online for a quick sale
• Prepare your listings with clear photos and details
• Pick a date and set up for a garage or yard sale
• Have supplies on hand for your garage sale

Important Documents

• Track down any official paperwork you’ll need
• Put together all legal and financial docs
• Purchase a folder or safe to keep documents organized
• Place all important documents together in a secure, easy-to-find spot

Inventory and Special Care Items

• Create an inventory of your possessions
• Identify and note items that need special care (fragile, valuable, antiques, electronics)
• Spot which things might need more padding or special instructions

Photos for Insurance

• Snap pictures of your most expensive things
• Save images to the cloud for insurance and condition records
• Keep all image files in a labeled folder

Managing Perishables and Hazardous Supplies

• Start eating any perishable food so it doesn't go to waste
• Use up or safely throw away cleaning supplies and anything hazardous that movers can't take
• Separate out all forbidden goods and check the rules for safe disposal

Setting Up Your Utilities

• Look up which utility companies you'll need for your new place and your current one
• Double-check that services like gas or water are connected at the new home
• Schedule shut-off times for all outgoing utilities
• Set up start dates for all your utilities at the new address so everything's ready when you arrive
• Double-check your appointments and keep a list of confirmation numbers, just in case

Safe Deposit Box and Storage Unit

• Arrange to clear your safe deposit box if your moving long-distance
• Pick a day to clear out any storage unit rentals
• Set up a time to visit the bank or storage facility
• Figure out how you'll safely move any valuables or important documents
• Do a final check to make sure nothing gets left behind in storage

Change of Address

• Make sure your mail is redirected by notifying the postal service
• Update your address with your bank, credit cards, insurance, and any subscriptions you have

Sharing Your Move with Schools and Doctors

• Inform teachers, medical professionals, and veterinarians of your move
• Request your files and records be sent to new providers

Preparing for Smooth Travel with Children and Animals

• Have a kit with treats, toys, and necessities ready to go
• Make sure you have any medications or special items your child or pet might need for the day
• Secure a spot with sitters or daycare and check timing
• Update tags and chips to reflect your new location

Planning for Work Absences

• Plan ahead for needed time away from your job
• Communicate your schedule to the office in advance
• Set up an out-of-office email or voicemail if you'll be unavailable
• Make a list of any urgent work tasks to finish before your days off
• If you work from home, schedule internet setup at your new place as soon as possible

Getting to Know Your New Area

Preparing the Layout of Your New Place

• Figure out the best spots for your furniture and bulky belongings
• Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to make sure your biggest pieces will fit through
• Ensure every piece fits perfectly before the truck arrives
• Use images to guide your unpacking and setup
• Label your furniture and boxes with the room name to make moving day easier for everyone

Valuables & Essentials

• Gather up personal treasures and keep them separate
• Prepare an overnight kit for every person
• Don’t pack your everyday essentials—keep them with you
• If you have irreplaceable items (like heirlooms or keepsakes), plan to transport them yourself

Building Access & Keys

• Gather every key, remote, and code you’ll need on moving day
• Organize every entry tool in one place and label clearly

Move-In/Move-Out Requirements for Apartment and Condo Residents

• Contact building management in advance for rule details
• Verify if your movers must supply insurance paperwork
• Find out if you need parking permits, elevator reservations, or loading dock access for moving day
• Double-check that all paperwork is done before your move
• Ask about approved times for moving to prevent issues

Making Sure Both Homes Are Clean

• Schedule a thorough cleaning to increase your chance of getting your deposit returned
• Make sure the new space is spotless for move-in day
• List which spots need extra care or deep cleaning
• If you're cleaning yourself, gather supplies and plan enough time to get it done

Storage Access or Transfer

• If you have items in a storage unit, contact the facility to arrange access on or before moving day
• Decide if you'll move those items yourself or have the movers handle it
• Make a list of what's in storage and label boxes or items for easy identification
• If you're moving to a new storage unit, reserve it in advance and confirm the address and hours

Let the Neighbors Know You Moving

• Give advance notice of your move to your neighbors
• Give them a heads-up if parking or shared spaces will be affected
• Express gratitude for their understanding

Ensuring a Spot for Your Moving Vehicle

• See if your city requires any special permissions for moving trucks
• Contact your local city office or building manager to arrange permits if needed
• Put up barriers to hold your reserved parking if permitted

Coordinating Power, Water, and Internet for Your Move

• Review service schedules to prevent being left without power, water, or connectivity
• Verify timing with every company for seamless transitions

Packing Personal Items

• Gather up anything you’d prefer to transport on your own, such as personal records or family heirlooms
• Use sturdy boxes or bags for these items and keep them in a safe spot
• Add a prominent “Do Not Move” note so they stay with you

Packing a Move-Day Survival Kit

• Gather all daily essentials together for easy access upon arrival
• Keep this essentials kit easily accessible during your move

Taking Care of Borrowed Things

• Check your home for anything you need to give back
• Return library books, borrowed tools, or anything else you don't own before moving day

Managing Pharmacy Needs During Relocation

• Contact your pharmacist about moving your medication records
• Double-check you’re stocked with all necessary medicines

Unplug and Clean Appliances

• Unplug the fridge, freezer, washer, and dryer
• Clear out any remaining items so nothing is left behind
• Wipe down all surfaces to keep things fresh
• Defrost the freezer to prevent leaks and damage during the move
• Make sure every appliance is completely dry

Finish Packing Non-Essentials

• Complete packing of items you're moving yourself that aren't needed daily
• Select tough boxes and write clear descriptions on each
• Keep fragile items well-protected with padding
• Double-check that everything is packed and ready for the movers

Review Details for Move Day

• Call or message your moving company to confirm the arrival time
• Verify any special instructions or requests you have for the movers
• Save phone numbers for quick communication

Prepare Moving Day Folder

• Gather all important paperwork related to the move (contracts, receipts, inventory lists)
• Include keys, garage remotes, and access cards needed for both old and new homes
• Prepare a contact list in case you need quick support
• Use a labeled folder to keep everything in one place

Get Suitcases Packed

• Pack a suitcase or overnight bag for each family member with enough clothes, pajamas, and toiletries for a few days
• Don’t forget chargers, any special items, or daily-use medicines

Gather Up Valuables and Important Documents

• Collect all vital paperwork like passports, birth certificates, and insurance paperwork before move day
• Round up everything valuable or sentimental
• Carry sensitive items yourself for peace of mind

Getting Rid of Unwanted Items

• Walk through the house to catch leftover clutter
• Toss, donate, or recycle items you don't want to bring to the new place
• Look in hidden spots for overlooked belongings

Set Aside Cash for the Big Day

• Withdraw enough cash for tips and on-the-go purchases

Confirm Child or Pet Care

• Review details with sitters, daycare, or boarding
• Make sure communication is clear for hand-offs and updates

Clean Out Bins and Containers

• Empty and clean all trash cans, recycling bins, and outdoor containers
• Do a final walk-through of outdoor and trash areas

Make Sure Someone Is There to Welcome Movers or Installers

• Ask a friend or family member to be at your new home to accept deliveries or let in utility technicians if you can't be there yourself
• Enlist a backup to keep an eye on things if you’re busy

Safely Empty and Clean Out the Refrigerator

• Remove all food from the fridge and freezer
• Disconnect power and keep doors ajar to melt ice
• Clean all shelves and drawers and dry thoroughly

Make Your Washing Machine Move-Safe

• Run a quick clean cycle or wipe down the inside of your washing machine
• Ensure every part is moisture-free
• Use shipping bolts to lock the drum and prevent damage
• Keep the door ajar so the interior dries fully

Wrapping Up at Your Old Home

• Be on hand to provide instructions or guidance as needed
• Identify anything fragile or staying behind before loading begins

• Accompany the movers during their inspection to ensure nothing is missed
• Verify nothing is left off the list for transport

• Make sure all boxes are clearly labeled with their destination rooms
• Keep an eye on the loading to catch any forgotten items

• Go through the house and make sure all windows are closed and locked
• Turn off all lights, fans, and appliances before you leave

• Do a last check of every room, closet, cabinet, attic, basement, and garage to make sure nothing is forgotten
• Peek in unlikely places for things you may have missed

• Put all access devices in a labeled spot for the next resident
• Write down any helpful tips or reminders for the new people

Move-In Steps for Your New Home

• Be there to welcome the team and direct entry
• Survey the house before the chaos begins

• Mark rooms or label doors to speed up the process
• Label doorways or rooms if it helps make things easier and faster

• As the movers bring things in, check off each item on your inventory list
• Take a moment to inspect furniture and boxes for any damage or missing items

• List any concerns on the final form to ensure coverage
• Take photos of any damaged items for your records

• Confirm basic utilities are active and connected
• Run a quick test on essential appliances for safety

• Take clear photos of your utility meters (electric, gas, water) as soon as you move in
• Store pictures as proof for future utility claims

• Install new locks for added security if you own the home
• If you're renting, check with your landlord before changing any locks

Start with Must-Have Items

• Open up boxes with your most-used essentials first
• Double-check that each family member has comfort and basics for the evening

• Direct your helpers or crew to the most important areas
• Offer detailed guidance for each space or room

• Break down boxes and gather packing paper and bubble wrap
• Arrange for haul-away or drop-off at a recycling center nearby

• Go online or visit the DMV to update licenses and registration info
• Complete vehicle registration for your new residence
• Register your pets with the new city or county if needed

• Walk around and offer a friendly greeting
• A friendly hello can help you settle in and start building community

• Post your thoughts online to assist other customers

• Keep all files together for future use or proof of expenses
• Hold onto these for your records or in case you can claim moving expenses on your taxes

• Prepare a kit of quick-access items you’ll use before, during, and after moving
• Don’t pack these items in the truck—keep them handy for comfort and emergencies

• Photograph all wires and plugs so reassembly is easy
• Use these photos as a reference to quickly and correctly reconnect everything at your new home

• Make sure everyone has sleepwear, toothbrushes, and clean towels
• Add special items for comfort or reassurance

• Go online or visit your post office to set up mail forwarding
• Update your address with online shopping sites and any subscriptions

• Write down important contact details for emergencies
• Have backup records in case your phone isn’t working

Need Help With Your San Bernardino Move?

When finding dependable movers is a priority in San Bernardino, Starving Students stands out with our commitment to quality service at affordable rates.

• Reputation – Trusted by San Bernardino families and businesses alike since 1973
• Expertise – Our trained professionals handle your belongings with care
• Smart Savings – We're dedicated to delivering a lower final bill!

Relax and take the stress out of your move – let the experts at Starving Students manage your move from start to finish while you plan your next adventure. You’ll notice the difference in our dedication!

Get Your Free San Bernardino Moving Quote or give us a ring at (909) 531-4218 to get started!