Before loading: make the handoff explicit
Confirm who is responsible for keys, the transport contact, the inventory, and the final walkthrough. Keep your carry-with-you bag in a clearly separate place so it cannot be loaded by mistake. Put keys, IDs, medicines, chargers, important documents and your immediate travel needs in it.
For a professional move, compare the company and shipment details with your written arrangements before work begins. Read documents before signing, record inventory changes and ask for a copy of each document. For DIY or container moves, follow the rental or container provider’s loading, access and return instructions.
- Confirm the contact and pickup window
- Keep the travel and essentials kit separate
- Make access and parking arrangements available
- Record item condition and inventory changes
- Assign responsibility for keys and final checks
Before leaving: walk the route in reverse
Start at the farthest storage space and work toward the exit: attic or basement where applicable, cupboards, drawers, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchen, exterior storage and parking. This avoids repeatedly checking the main room while missing a small cupboard.
Use your lease, closing instructions or building rules for cleaning, key return and handover. Record meter readings where relevant and safe. Take dated photos of the condition you leave, and keep the handover confirmation with your move records. Suggested checklist timing does not change your contract obligations.
| Responsibility | Confirm before departure |
|---|---|
| Keys and access | Recipient, handover time, spare keys |
| Belongings | Cupboards, storage, outdoor items checked |
| Records | Photos, receipts, inventory, utility notes |
| Journey | Fuel or charging, directions, rest stops, arrival contact |
At delivery: check first, organize second
Check the inventory against what arrives and record visible damage or missing items. Keep specific notes such as the inventory number, room, condition and relevant photo names. Ask how to report problems in writing and retain copies of delivery documents.
A calm division of work helps: one person directs placement, another checks the inventory when help is available. Keep essential rooms accessible and do not let boxes block exits. If a problem develops, use the mover’s written claim procedure and the official guidance linked below; the checklist does not decide liability.
For the first night: make a small home inside the home
Aim for a usable sleeping area, bathroom and simple food-preparation area. Set up medicine, charging and pet or child needs before working through lower-priority boxes. Confirm how locks, building access and emergency exits work; consult the landlord, building manager or a qualified professional where needed.
Then stop and write down tomorrow’s three priorities. Put any unconfirmed service appointment on that list. Your first-month checklist carries the work forward without requiring every box to be unpacked on arrival.