Planning a local move in the Boston area? At East Coast Boston Movers, we believe preparation is key to a smooth, efficient, and stress-free move. Whether you’re relocating across the street or to a nearby neighborhood, this detailed guide walks you through how to prepare for your local move step by step.
1. Book Your Move Early
✅ Reserve Your Preferred Moving Date
Local moves may seem easier to plan, but Boston’s moving season—especially around September 1st and during weekends—can get booked fast. We recommend reserving your moving day at least 4 weeks in advance.
🕒 Choose the Right Time Slot
Morning slots typically work best for same-day moves. With East Coast Boston Movers, we’ll coordinate an arrival window that fits your schedule.
2. Create a Personalized Moving Checklist
Stay organized by creating a moving timeline. Include:
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When to start packing
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When to cancel or transfer utilities
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When to notify the post office
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When to collect documents
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When to clean or arrange for cleaners
We offer custom checklists to help streamline this process for every client.
3. Declutter Before You Pack
🧹 Sort, Donate, or Toss
A local move is a great opportunity to lighten your load. Go room by room and decide what to:
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Keep
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Donate
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Sell
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Recycle or discard
We offer junk removal services and can schedule a pickup before your moving day.
4. Gather Packing Materials
You can purchase high-quality moving boxes and supplies directly from us. We deliver orders over $100 and offer a refund on unused boxes (if they’re not taped). Be sure to gather:
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Small, medium, and large boxes
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Wardrobe boxes
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Dish packs
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Packing tape
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Labels and markers
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Bubble wrap and packing paper
5. Start Packing Smart
📦 Pack Early, Label Clearly
Begin packing non-essentials 2–3 weeks before your move. Clearly label each box by:
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Room
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Contents
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Handling instructions (e.g., “FRAGILE” or “HEAVY”)
🗂️ Keep Essentials Separate
Set aside a “first night box” with essentials like:
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Toiletries
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Chargers
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Change of clothes
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Medications
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Snacks
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Bedding
We also offer professional packing and unpacking services—perfect for busy professionals, seniors, or families.
6. Prepare Your Home for Moving Day
Before our team arrives:
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Clear pathways and hallways
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Protect floors if you’re not using our floor protection services
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Reserve elevator time (if in an apartment or condo)
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Secure pets or arrange for pet care
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Take pictures of electronics and complex setups for easier reassembly
7. Notify Utilities and Change of Address
📬 Update Your Address
Notify the following:
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USPS (forward your mail)
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Banks and credit cards
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Health providers
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Subscriptions and delivery services
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Employer (HR/payroll)
🔌 Schedule Utility Transfers
Coordinate service start/stop dates for:
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Electricity
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Gas
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Water
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Internet
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Cable
8. Confirm the Final Details with Us
A few days before your move, we’ll confirm:
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Arrival time
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Addresses (old and new)
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Parking arrangements
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Any last-minute changes
Feel free to call or email us if you have updates or questions—communication is key to a seamless move.
9. Be Ready on Moving Day
On moving day, be packed, dressed comfortably, and ready to direct the crew:
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Walk us through your home
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Point out fragile or high-value items
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Let us know what stays and what goes
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Keep important items (documents, jewelry, medications) with you
Our trained, background-checked professionals will handle the heavy lifting, furniture disassembly, and truck loading.
10. Enjoy a Smooth Move with East Coast Boston Movers
With decades of local experience and a team of dedicated experts, we ensure your move is efficient, safe, and respectful of your time and belongings.