We know moving can be overwhelming. Whether you’re headed to a new home in Cincinnati, upgrading in Indianapolis, or settling into a new neighborhood in Dayton, a little planning goes a long way. That’s why we’ve put together this no-nonsense, easy-to-follow 3-week moving checklist to keep your move smooth, organized, and stress-free.
This 3 Weeks Moving Checklist Will Make Your Relocation Easier
Move with Confidence – The American Way!
3 Weeks Before Your Move
- Walk Through Your Home & Make an Inventory
Go room by room and write down everything you’ll be taking with you. This is a great time to figure out what stays and what goes. Trust us—moving is easier when you’re not hauling stuff you don’t need.
- Sort, Donate, or Sell What You Don’t Need
Got an old recliner that’s seen better days? Or clothes the kids have outgrown? Donate gently-used items to Goodwill or Salvation Army, or list stuff online (Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are local favorites). Bonus: Fewer boxes = lower moving cost.
- Pick Your Moving Company & Lock It In
Call around and get quotes, but don’t just go with the cheapest. Choose a company with experience, like American Way Van & Storage—reliable, local, and ready to help.
- Start Gathering Packing Supplies
Get boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and old newspapers. Local grocery stores or hardware shops might have free boxes, too.
- Notify Your Post Office of the Address Change
Stop by your local post office or do it online. That way, your bills, Amazon packages, and Grandma’s birthday card don’t go to the old place.
- Reach Out to Schools & Medical Providers
If you’re moving out of the area, transfer school records and medical files now so you’re not scrambling later.
2 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Start Packing Non-Essentials
Time to pack away anything you don’t use every day—seasonal gear, books, wall art, decorations, etc. Label each box with what’s inside and which room it belongs to. Future You will thank you.
- Confirm Details with Your Movers
Call your moving company and double-check the time, date, and address. Ask about anything special you need to know (elevator access, narrow streets, weather concerns, etc.).
- Book the Elevator and/or Loading Zone (If Needed)
If you live in an apartment or downtown building, ask the manager about reserving a moving elevator or space for the truck.
- Handle Utilities
Call your electric, gas, water, internet, trash, and cable providers to schedule shut-off at the old place and start-up at the new home. Don’t forget about subscriptions or delivery services.
- Make a List of Everyone to Notify
Think: banks, credit cards, your kid’s soccer coach, your gym, magazine subscriptions, your boss—anyone who sends you mail or needs your new info.
- Arrange Time Off Work (If Needed)
Moving during the week? Let your boss know now and request time off to be there for the move.
1 Week Before the Move
- Pack the Rest of Your House
Get serious with packing. Tackle one room at a time and don’t forget closets, drawers, and under the bed. Everything should be packed and taped up a couple days before the move.
- Set Aside Essentials for the First Few Nights
Pack a suitcase with clothes, toiletries, chargers, important documents, medication, pet food, etc. It’s your “just-in-case” bag.
- Clean Out the Fridge & Freezer
Eat what you can. Toss or donate what you can’t. Clean and defrost the fridge 24 hours before moving if it’s coming with you.
- Do Some Basic Repairs
Patch holes, touch up paint, and replace burned-out bulbs. It’s the neighborly thing to do, especially if you’re renting or selling.
- Give the House a Good Clean
Sweep, vacuum, and wipe everything down. You’ll feel better leaving a clean home behind—and the new folks will appreciate it too.
- Label Last-Minute Items
Mark any boxes that need to come off the truck first (like kitchen stuff or kids’ bedding). Use color-coded tape or simple labels like “UNLOAD FIRST.”
- Confirm Travel Plans
If you’re moving out of town, plan how your family—and pets—are getting to the new place. Car snacks, playlists, and favorite toys go a long way.
Moving Day!
- Get an Early Start
Coffee. Breakfast. Double-check everything. Then take a deep breath—it’s go time!
- Be There to Guide the Movers
Let the movers know where you want things placed in the new house. A quick walk-through helps them help you.
- Final Sweep
Before leaving the old house, walk through every room, closet, drawer, and cabinet. Don’t forget the garage or basement!
- Essentials Stay With You
Keep valuables, documents, meds, and your overnight bag with you—not on the truck.
- Say Goodbye (and Snap a Pic)
Take a moment to reflect on the memories and snap a photo. Then look ahead—you’ve got new ones to make.
After You Move In
- Unpack the Essentials First
Start with the kitchen, bathroom, and beds. Then work your way through the rest. No need to do it all in one day.
- Flatten & Reuse/Donate Boxes
Plenty of local folks are always on the lookout for free boxes—offer them up online or donate to a local shelter or school.
- Update Your License & Vehicle Info
Visit your local BMV to update your driver’s license and registration with your new address.
- Leave a Review
Support your local movers by leaving a review. Your feedback helps us continue to deliver top-notch service to folks across the Midwest.
- Celebrate with a Housewarming
Invite the neighbors over, grill out, or just kick back with friends and a cold drink. You’ve earned it.
Need Help? Call the Local Experts at American Way Van & Storage
Proudly serving Dayton • Cincinnati • Indianapolis
Residential & Commercial Moves
Short- and Long-Term Storage
Full-Service Packing Available
Our Moving Services
Moving Services We Offer
Moving Made Simple – Serving Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Beyond
Residential Moving
Our residential moving services make your home transition smooth and efficient. Whether you’re moving across town in Dayton or to a different city like Cincinnati, Columbus, or Indianapolis, we handle everything from packing to unloading.
Local Moving
At American Way Van & Storage, we specialize in local moves within Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus. We understand the area and work to ensure your move is as stress-free as possible.
International Moving
Moving abroad? Our international moving services help you relocate anywhere in the world. Let us manage the details while you focus on your new journey.
Long Distance Moving
As affiliates of National Van Lines, we offer reliable long-distance moving services to any state in the U.S. Trust our experienced team to handle your belongings with care on any cross-country move.
Office Moving
Our corporate relocation services are designed to help businesses move smoothly, with minimal downtime. Whether it’s relocating offices or employees, we ensure everything is packed, transported, and set up seamlessly.
Apartment Moving
Moving into or out of an apartment can be tricky, but we make it easier. Whether you’re in a high-rise or a ground-floor unit, our movers have the skills and tools to handle it all.
Why Choose Us?
Customer Satisfaction
We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to every client. Our focus is ensuring that your move is stress-free and seamless from start to finish. With glowing reviews and satisfied customers, you can trust us with your move.
Expertise and Experience
With years of experience and a team of trained professionals, we have the knowledge to handle any move. From local relocations in Dayton to long-distance and international moves, we are equipped to manage every aspect with precision and care.
Licensed and Insured
American Way Van & Storage is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. We comply with all industry regulations and offer comprehensive coverage to ensure the safety of your belongings throughout the moving process.
Reliable and Trustworthy
Our team is known for being dependable, punctual, and trustworthy. We go the extra mile to make sure your belongings are handled with the utmost care, and we are committed to providing top-notch service from beginning to end.
Local Knowledge
As a locally owned and operated business, we know the Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Indianapolis areas inside and out. Our local expertise ensures your move is as efficient and hassle-free as possible, whether it's across the street or across state lines.
Competitive Pricing
We believe in offering high-quality moving services at affordable prices. With competitive rates and transparent pricing, we make sure you get the best value without compromising on service.
Customer Testimonials
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Cities We Serve
Serving the Heart of the Midwest – Reliable Moving Services from Ohio to Kentucky and Indiana
Cincinnati, OH
Whether you’re moving to or from Cincinnati, our experienced team offers reliable local and long-distance moving services for all types of relocations.
Columbus, OH
Need movers for a move to or from Columbus? Our professional moving services ensure a seamless transition, no matter the distance.
Dayton, OH
From Dayton, Ohio, or moving into the city, we provide dependable moving services for both local and long-distance relocations.
Indianapolis, IN
Moving to Indianapolis? Our experienced movers are here to help with your local or long-distance move across the city.
Fishers, IN
Whether you’re moving out of Fishers or relocating here, we offer efficient moving services for homes and businesses of all sizes.
Carmel, IN
Moving to or from Carmel? Our experienced movers provide top-notch service for both local and long-distance moves with care and reliability.
Fort Wright, KY
Whether you’re leaving Fort Wright or moving here, our professional movers offer expert services for local and long-distance moves.
Newport, KY
Looking to move to or from Newport, Kentucky? We specialize in both local and long-distance moves, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Florence, KY
From Florence, KY, or to the city, our team is here to handle all your moving needs, providing both local and long-distance moving services.
Ready to experience a smooth and efficient move with Us.
Get a free moving quote today!