Moving and Junk Removal

The Ultimate Moving Checklist: Protect Your Valuables & Prep for a Junk Removal Cleanout

Moving to a new home or apartment can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Between packing, organizing, and coordinating logistics, it’s easy to overlook key details—especially when it comes to valuables and decluttering unwanted items. To help make your move stress-free, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist, covering how to secure your valuables and prepare for a junk removal cleanout.

Step 1: Organizing & Securing Valuables

Before packing everything up, it’s important to safeguard your valuable belongings. Here’s how:

✅ Create a Valuables Inventory – List all high-value items, including jewelry, important documents, electronics, and sentimental items.

✅ Take Photos – Photograph valuables for documentation in case of loss or damage.

✅ Use a Safe or Lockbox – Store cash, passports, birth certificates, and other critical documents in a secure, easy-to-transport lockbox. Fire and waterproof lockboxes are highly recommended for this task.

✅ Separate Daily Essentials – Pack items like medications, chargers, and important paperwork in a personal bag that stays with you during the move. This is usually the last thing you take and the first thing you unpack in your new space. Don't forget any children's toys, blankets, or comfort items your child is used to having with them.

✅ Label Discreetly – If you’re labeling boxes, avoid using words like "jewelry" or "valuables"—use a code or general terms instead. This is especially important when hiring movers or people you don't know and trust to assist you with the moving process. A good tip is using 2 different color painters' tape for this. Usually blue and green are readily available at a big box store. You can use one color for items you are keeping and label them with the room they are going into at your new space. The other color can be used to alert the junk removal crew that these items are to be disposed of.

✅ Transport Small Valuables Yourself – Whenever possible, keep small, irreplaceable valuables with you rather than in the moving truck.

Step 2: Preparing for your Junk Removal Cleanout

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of unwanted items. A junk removal cleanout can make your transition easier and save you from moving unnecessary clutter. Need professional help with junk removal before your big move? Contact us today at (866)-738-3311 to schedule a hassle-free cleanout!

✅ Sort & Categorize Items – Go room by room and create three piles: Keep, Donate, and Junk.

✅ Dispose of Hazardous Materials Properly – Old paint, chemicals, batteries, and electronics often require special disposal—check local regulations. Your chosen junk removal company can usually help identify items that fit into this category. Note many junk removal companies typically do not take these items or they may charge additional fees since specialized disposal facilities are usually involved.

✅ Schedule a Junk Removal Service – Book a junk removal company in advance to haul away large items like old furniture, broken appliances, and general clutter. Try to have your items tagged and ready to go in one area to avoid additional junk removal fees. If items are too heavy for you, simply tag them with your designated painters tape color or some other identifier to alert the junk removal crew that these items are to be removed.

✅ Recycle Whenever Possible – Many junk removal companies offer eco-friendly disposal options for recyclable items.

✅ Donate Usable Items – Clothes, furniture, and household goods in good condition can be donated to charities or shelters.

✅ Clear Out Storage Areas – Don’t forget the attic, basement, garage, and outdoor sheds.

Step 3: Final Moving Day Preparation

✅ Confirm Moving & Junk Removal Appointments – Double-check the schedule with your movers and junk haulers.

✅ Do a Final Walkthrough – Ensure nothing is left behind in closets, cabinets, or storage spaces.

✅ Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy – Have essentials like wipes, trash bags, and a broom for last-minute cleanups.

✅ Take One Last Look at Your Valuables – Ensure all important items are packed securely and with you.

Final Thoughts

A successful move requires planning, especially when it comes to protecting valuables and removing unwanted junk. By following this checklist, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home while reducing unnecessary stress.

Need professional help with junk removal before your big move? Contact us today at (866)-738-3311 to schedule a hassle-free cleanout!