
Local Moving To-Do Checklist
Haul Yeah! Pack It Right or Cry All Night: Your Uncensored, No-BS Guide to Moving Locally Without Losing It

Local Moving To-Do Checklist.
Looking for a local moving to-do checklist that doesn't suck?
You found it.
"Haul Yeah! Pack It Right or Cry All Night: Your Uncensored, No-BS Guide to Moving Locally Without Losing It" is the only checklist you'll need to make your move smooth as butter.
No fancy words.
No BS.
Just a step-by-step plan to get your stuff from point A to point B without losing your mind.
We'll cover everything from when to start packing to how to avoid the biggest moving day disasters. And if it gets too much?
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is just a call away to save your butt.
Get Your Shift Together: The Ultimate Local Moving Battle Plan
Listen up!
Moving isn't just throwing stuff in boxes and hoping for the best.
You need a battle plan, soldier!
Even for a local move.
Let's break down this mission:
8 Weeks Before Moving Day
Pick your moving date. Weekdays are cheaper than weekends. Mid-month is better than month-end.
Start your moving folder. Keep all your moving info in one place - quotes, checklists, receipts. Your brain will thank you.
Set a budget. Moving costs money. Know how much you can spend before you start.
Get quotes from movers. Call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894. They've got 85+ 5-star reviews for a reason!
Measure your new place. Will your king-size bed fit through that door? Better know now than on moving day.
6 Weeks Before Moving Day
Make a floor plan for your new place. Know where your stuff will go.
Start collecting boxes. Liquor stores, grocery stores, and bookstores have sturdy ones for free.
Get packing supplies. Bubble wrap, packing tape, markers. Stock up now.
Check if you need any permits for moving trucks in your neighborhood.
Schedule time off work for your moving day.
4 Weeks Before Moving Day
Start packing stuff you don't use often. Holiday decorations, off-season clothes, fancy dishes.
Take photos of electronics before unplugging. Trust me on this one.
Eat your freezer food. Less to move later.
Research utility companies for your new place. Schedule connections.
Make a list of everyone who needs your new address. It's longer than you think.
This battle plan isn't just helpful - it's your lifeline.
Follow it or risk drowning in moving chaos.
And remember, Mr. BigStuff isn't just a moving company - they're your secret weapon against moving day madness.
Want an even more detailed plan? Check out Mr. BigStuff's Comprehensive Moving Checklist that breaks down every single step from 8 weeks before to after you've moved in. It's the master checklist the pros use.
Move Your Ass, Not Your Sanity
Moving doesn't have to make you crazy.
Here's how to keep your head while everything around you is in boxes:
Sanity-Saving Tips
Set a daily goal. "Today I'll pack the kitchen cabinets." Small wins keep you motivated.
Take breaks. Pack for 45 minutes, rest for 15. Your back will thank you.
Keep a "Moving Day" box. Pack things you'll need right away: toilet paper, phone chargers, coffee maker, basic tools, shower curtain, towels, sheets, snacks.
Label EVERYTHING. Not just "Kitchen" - be specific: "Kitchen - Everyday Dishes" or "Kitchen - Coffee Stuff."
Color-code your boxes by room. Blue for bathroom, red for bedroom. It makes unloading way faster.
Take pictures of what's inside boxes. Way easier than writing every little thing.
Ask for help. Friends, family, or best of all - professionals like Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving who do this every day.
Keep important papers with you. Birth certificates, passports, medical records - don't pack these.
When your sanity starts slipping, remember: thousands of people move every day and survive.
You will too.
And if it gets really bad? That's when you call the pros.
Jae Burnham and his team at Mr. BigStuff make moving look easy because they've seen it all.
Don't Get Boxed In
Packing is an art form.
Do it wrong and you'll be crying over broken dishes and missing stuff.
Do it right and unpacking will be like Christmas morning - but better because you bought all the presents.
Packing Like a Pro
Get the right boxes. Books need small, sturdy boxes. Blankets can go in big ones. Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes.
Heavy stuff goes in small boxes. Your back will thank you later.
Light stuff goes in big boxes. Fill space with packing paper, not air.
Pack dishes vertically, like records. They're less likely to break.
Wrap glasses individually. Use clean packing paper, not newspaper (ink stains).
Use towels and blankets as padding for fragile stuff.
Don't overpack boxes. If it bulges, it's too full.
Fill gaps in boxes so things don't shift during the move.
Tape the bottom of boxes with an H-pattern for strength.
Double-box really fragile items. Box inside a box with padding between.
Packing is the part most people mess up.
It's also the part that determines if your stuff arrives in one piece.
Want a pro tip?
Mr. BigStuff offers packing services. Imagine coming home to find everything packed perfectly, labeled, and ready to go.
Heaven, right?
Need more detailed packing guidance? Mr. BigStuff's Packing Checklist takes you room by room with expert tips on how to pack tricky items like mirrors, electronics, and family heirlooms. It even includes a shopping list for all the packing supplies you'll need.
Lift With Your Legs, Plan With This List
The physical part of moving is no joke.
People get hurt, stuff gets broken, friendships end over dropped TVs.
Here's how to do the heavy lifting right:
Physical Prep and Logistics
Get proper moving equipment. Dollies, furniture sliders, lifting straps - they're worth every penny.
Clear pathways in both your old and new place before moving day.
Take apart furniture that's too big to move whole. Keep screws and bolts in labeled baggies taped to the furniture.
Empty drawers before moving dressers. They're heavy enough empty.
Protect floors and doorways with cardboard or moving blankets.
Plan the loading order. Last in, first out. Things you need first go in last.
Move mattresses in mattress bags. They get dirty fast otherwise.
Have water and snacks ready for moving day.
Wear closed-toe shoes on moving day. Dropping a box on flip-flopped feet hurts.
Keep tools handy for reassembling furniture at the new place.
Or... call Mr. BigStuff at (517) 948-0894 and let them handle all this.
Their team knows exactly how to move your grandma's antique china cabinet without a scratch.
They've got the equipment, the experience, and the muscle to make it look easy.
The Holy Shift: Day-Before Preparations
The day before your move is critical.
Drop the ball here and your moving day turns into a disaster movie starring you as the panicked main character.
Do these things the day before:
Day-Before Checklist
Finish packing. Everything except your overnight bag and morning essentials.
Confirm with your movers. A quick call to Mr. BigStuff to verify times and details.
Charge your phone and devices. You'll need them tomorrow.
Get cash for tips if you're using movers.
Clean out the fridge and freezer. Toss what won't make the trip.
Pack a separate overnight bag with clothes, toiletries, medications.
Set aside cleaning supplies for last-minute cleanup.
Get a good night's sleep. Moving day is a marathon.
Put important documents and valuables in a safe place to transport yourself.
Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
Miss these steps and you'll be packing at midnight, sleeping for two hours, then moving all day.
Recipe for disaster!
Jae Burnham at Mr. BigStuff says the day-before prep is what separates smooth moves from nightmare stories they hear from customers who tried other movers first.
Going long distance instead of local? While this guide focuses on local moves, Mr. BigStuff also has a specialized Long-Distance Moving Checklist with all the extra steps you'll need for cross-country relocations. It covers everything from choosing interstate movers to handling car shipping and planning your travel.
Cut the Crap and Pack the Stuff
Time to get brutal with your belongings.
Moving is the perfect time to decide what you actually need and what's just taking up space.
Decluttering Rules
Be honest with yourself. If you haven't used it in a year, you probably don't need it.
Sort into four piles: Keep, Donate, Sell, Trash. No "maybe" pile allowed.
Start with the easy stuff - junk drawers, old magazines, mismatched socks.
Take pictures of sentimental items you don't need but feel bad tossing.
Measure furniture against your new floor plan. If it doesn't fit, it doesn't go.
Consider replacement cost vs. moving cost. Sometimes it's cheaper to buy new.
Sell valuable items online or have a quick yard sale.
Donate usable items to local charities. Many will pick up large furniture.
Digitize paper you don't need physical copies of.
Be extra ruthless with kitchen gadgets. You probably don't need three blenders.
Less stuff = less to pack = less to move = less to unpack.
It's just math, people!
And if you're worried about getting rid of too much, remember: Mr. BigStuff charges by weight and volume.
Every box you don't pack saves you money.
Moving Locally? Don't Screw It Up
Local moves seem easier than long-distance ones, but that's a trap!
People get sloppy with local moves and end up with missing stuff, broken mirrors, and back injuries.
Avoid these common local moving mistakes:
Local Moving Pitfalls
Underestimating time needed. "It's just across town" still means a full day of moving.
Making too many small trips. Multiple trips eat up time and gas. Do it all at once.
Forgetting about parking. Where will the moving truck park at both locations?
Not updating your address because "you're staying in the same town." Still gotta do it.
Skipping the inventory because "nothing will get lost in a local move." Wrong.
Leaving stuff until later. "I'll come back for it" usually means it gets forgotten.
Not transferring utilities properly. Even local moves need new utility setups.
Assuming friends will help without confirming. Suddenly everyone's busy that day.
Forgetting about pets and plants. They need special transportation even for short moves.
Trying to move everything yourself because "it's just a local move." Your back disagrees.
Professional movers like Mr. BigStuff see these mistakes every day.
Their customers who thought local moves would be easy are always the most grateful for professional help when they realize it's still a major project.
Hustle Your Bustle: Moving Day Timeline
Moving day is here!
This is your hour-by-hour game plan to keep things moving (get it?) smoothly:
Moving Day Schedule
6:00 AM: Wake up, shower, and get dressed in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes.
6:30 AM: Last check of utilities at old place. Make sure nothing's left running.
7:00 AM: Final walk-through of each room. Open every drawer and cabinet.
7:30 AM: Have a good breakfast. Moving on an empty stomach is a rookie mistake.
8:00 AM: Be ready for movers to arrive (if using Mr. BigStuff, they're always on time).
8:15 AM: Walk movers through the house, pointing out fragile items and special concerns.
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Loading phase. Stay available to answer questions.
12:00 PM: Provide lunch/water for movers or yourself if DIY moving.
12:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Transport and unloading phase.
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Start unpacking essentials and setting up beds.
5:00 PM: Order food delivery. You've earned it.
8:00 PM: Make your bed with clean sheets. You'll thank yourself later.
This timeline assumes a local move with professionals like Mr. BigStuff. If you're doing it yourself, double the time estimates and add more ibuprofen breaks.
And remember - Mr. BigStuff's team works efficiently because they do this every day.
Jae Burnham's crew has the process down to a science.
The Brutally Honest Local Moving Survival Guide
Moving always comes with surprises.
Here's how to handle the unexpected disasters that pop up:
When Shift Happens: Emergency Solutions
Movers cancel last minute. Call Mr. BigStuff at (517) 948-0894 for emergency moving help.
It starts raining on moving day. Have plastic wrap and waterproof tarps ready.
Favorite furniture doesn't fit through the door. Measure in advance, but if it happens, call Mr. BigStuff - they know how to disassemble and reassemble like pros.
You run out of boxes mid-pack. Keep extra boxes or use laundry baskets, suitcases, and garbage bags.
Back or muscle injury during moving. Stop immediately and call professionals.
Moving truck breaks down. If using Mr. BigStuff, they handle this! Otherwise, call for roadside assistance.
New place isn't ready on time. Have a backup plan for storage - Mr. BigStuff offers storage solutions.
Items damaged during move. Document everything with photos. If using Mr. BigStuff, they're insured.
Keys to new place don't work. Keep your realtor's or landlord's number handy.
Unexpected extra fees from movers. Never happens with Mr. BigStuff - they quote upfront with no surprises.
The difference between amateur movers and professionals becomes crystal clear when problems arise. Jae Burnham built Mr. BigStuff's reputation on handling the unexpected with grace and solutions, not excuses.
Don't Forget This Stuff: The Details Most People Miss
After researching hundreds of moving checklists, we found these crucial items missing from most of them.
Don't get caught without:
The Missing Checklist Items
Change the locks at your new place. You don't know who has keys.
Find the water shut-off valve and circuit breaker box as soon as you move in.
Test smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed.
Take photos of your empty old place after moving out (for security deposit).
Take photos of empty new place before moving in (document pre-existing damage).
Have basic tools accessible: screwdriver, hammer, pliers, measuring tape.
Pack cleaning supplies separately and keep them accessible.
Know where your bedding is so you can make your bed that first night.
Keep a first aid kit handy during the move.
Bring toilet paper, hand soap, and shower curtain for immediate use at the new place.
Keep pet food, bowls, and litter box supplies with you, not in the moving truck.
Have a plan for food that first night - menus for delivery places or easy meal supplies.
Pack device chargers in your personal bag.
Bring a small tool kit for reassembling furniture.
Know what to tip movers - generally $20-$50 per person for a local move.
Jae Burnham's team at Mr. BigStuff actually reminds their customers about these details before moving day.
That's the kind of professionalism that earns them those 85+ 5-star reviews.
After The Dust Settles: The First Week In Your New Home
You made it!
But you're not done yet.
Here's what to do in the first week after your local move:
Week One Tasks
Unpack the necessities first. Kitchen, bathroom, bedroom - in that order.
Meet your immediate neighbors. They might be helpful in a pinch.
Locate emergency services - nearest hospital, police station, fire department.
Check that all utilities are working properly. Report any issues immediately.
Update your address with: DMV, voter registration, bank, credit cards, insurance, work, subscriptions.
Register kids for school if moving during the school year.
Find new healthcare providers if needed - doctor, dentist, vet.
Locate essential stores - grocery, pharmacy, hardware store.
Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if needed.
Create a maintenance schedule for your new place.
Jae Burnham from Mr. BigStuff says most people focus so much on the move itself that they forget these critical first-week tasks.
That's why they follow up with customers after the move to make sure everything's going smoothly.
The post-move period is crucial! Don't drop the ball after moving day. Check out Mr. BigStuff's detailed Post-Move Checklist that walks you through everything from setting up utilities to finding essential services in your new neighborhood. It's the guide that helps you turn a new house into a home.
The Local Mover's Supply List
Having the right supplies makes all the difference between a smooth move and a disaster.
Here's what you really need:
Essential Moving Supplies
Moving boxes in various sizes. More than you think - usually 10-15 boxes per room.
Packing paper - cheaper and more eco-friendly than bubble wrap for most items.
Bubble wrap for genuinely fragile items.
Packing tape and dispenser - get good quality tape that actually sticks.
Markers for labeling boxes clearly.
Moving blankets to protect furniture.
Plastic wrap for keeping drawers closed and protecting upholstery.
Mattress bags to keep beds clean during the move.
Furniture sliders to protect floors and make moving heavy items easier.
Dolly or hand truck for moving heavy boxes.
Basic tools for disassembling and reassembling furniture.
Cleaning supplies for both your old and new place.
Trash bags - you'll generate more trash than you expect.
First aid kit because paper cuts and muscle strains happen.
Snacks and water for moving day energy.
Or... skip all this shopping and call Mr. BigStuff at (517) 948-0894.
They bring all the necessary supplies as part of their full-service moving package.
What To Do With Your Kids And Pets On Moving Day
Moving with kids and pets adds an extra layer of chaos.
Here's how to handle the little ones:
Kid and Pet Management
Arrange childcare for moving day if possible. Kids and moving trucks don't mix well.
If kids must be present, give them age-appropriate jobs to keep them busy.
Pack a special bag of toys, games, and snacks just for moving day.
Keep pets secured in a quiet room until the last minute, then transport them yourself.
Update pet microchips with your new address.
Set up a safe, quiet room at the new place for pets while unloading happens.
Keep pet medications and comfort items easily accessible.
Check the new yard for escape routes before letting pets out.
Stick to routines as much as possible for both kids and pets.
Have special "first night" treats for everyone after the move is done.
Many Mr. BigStuff customers say the pet and kid management was actually harder than the move itself.
That's why having professionals handle the heavy lifting gives you time to focus on family needs during the transition.
How To Handle The Paperwork Nightmare
Moving creates a paper trail you can't ignore.
Stay on top of it with these steps:
Document Management
Create a moving binder with sections for contracts, receipts, and checklists.
Make a master contact list of everyone involved in your move.
Keep digital copies of all important documents on your phone.
File change-of-address forms with USPS at least two weeks before moving.
Update your address with banks, credit cards, insurance companies, and subscription services.
Transfer utilities to your new address - electricity, water, gas, internet, cable.
Get your security deposit requirements in writing from your old landlord.
Keep all moving receipts for potential tax deductions.
Update your driver's license and car registration if required.
Notify your employer of your new address for tax purposes.
Paperwork is boring but essential. Miss these steps and you could lose mail, miss bills, or forfeit your security deposit.
Mr. BigStuff even provides a handy change-of-address checklist to their customers to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
What You Need To Know About Local Moving Costs
Moving locally isn't cheap, but it doesn't have to break the bank either.
Here's the real deal on what it costs:
Cost Breakdown
Hiring professional movers: $80-$100 per hour for a two-person team.
Renting a truck yourself: $20-$50 per day plus mileage and gas.
Packing supplies: $100-$300 depending on home size.
Storage costs: $50-$200 per month if needed.
Insurance: $50-$500 depending on value of belongings.
Utility deposits: $100-$300 for new service connections.
Cleaning services: $100-$300 for move-out cleaning.
Tips for movers: $20-$50 per person for good service.
Food costs: $50-$100 for meals during moving day.
Unexpected expenses: Always budget an extra $200-$500 for surprises.
Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Their customers appreciate knowing exactly what they're paying before moving day arrives.
Call (517) 948-0894 for a free quote that won't suddenly change on moving day.
How To Choose A Local Moving Company (Hint: You Already Found The Best)
Not all moving companies are created equal.
Here's how to evaluate local movers:
Choosing Movers Checklist
Check reviews online - Google, Yelp, and Thumbtack. Mr. BigStuff has 85+ 5-star reviews.
Verify licensing and insurance - Ask for proof, not promises.
Get written estimates from at least three companies.
Ask about extra fees - Are stairs, heavy items, or weekend moves extra?
Understand the cancellation policy in case your plans change.
Get details on their insurance coverage for your belongings.
Ask about their equipment - Do they have dollies, ramps, and protective gear?
Check how long they've been in business - Experience matters in moving.
Ask if they subcontract or use their own employees.
Trust your gut - If something feels off, it probably is.
Or save yourself the hassle and call Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving at (517) 948-0894.
Founded by Jae Burnham, they've built their reputation on reliability, care, and exceptional service.
Why gamble with your move when a proven team is just a call away?
The Final Countdown: Last Minute Local Moving Tips
It's the final stretch!
Here are the last-minute tips that can save your moving day:
Last-Minute Wisdom
Charge all your devices the night before. You'll need them.
Pack a "Last to Load, First to Unpack" box with essentials.
Take photos of electronic setups before disconnecting.
Remove batteries from everything to prevent leaks or fires.
Defrost your refrigerator 24 hours before the move.
Back up your computer just in case.
Keep important items with you - medications, valuables, documents.
Have cash on hand for tips or unexpected expenses.
Confirm details with your movers the day before.
Check weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.
Jae Burnham's team at Mr. BigStuff actually sends reminder texts to clients the day before with these exact tips.
That's the level of service that sets them apart.
Why Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving Is Your Best Choice
You've read this far, so let's cut to the chase.
Here's why Mr. BigStuff should be your only call:
The Mr. BigStuff Difference
85+ 5-star reviews across Google, Thumbtack, and Moving Helper.
Founded by Jae Burnham, a respected YouTube influencer and published author.
Full-service options from packing to unpacking.
Transparent pricing with no surprise fees.
Fully insured and licensed professionals who know what they're doing.
Flexible scheduling for your convenience.
Proper equipment for every moving challenge.
Careful handling of your valuable possessions.
Local expertise with knowledge of Michigan neighborhoods.
Problem-solving approach to moving challenges.
Don't take our word for it.
Check out their website at https://justthebigstuff.com or read those glowing reviews from happy customers who made the smart choice.
Your Next Steps: How To Book Mr. BigStuff For Your Local Move
Ready for the easiest, most stress-free local move of your life?
Here's what to do next:
Call (517) 948-0894 for a free, no-obligation quote.
Visit https://justthebigstuff.com to learn more about their services.
Check their availability for your preferred moving dates.
Get a customized moving plan tailored to your specific needs.
Relax knowing professionals have got your back.
Why struggle through a DIY move or risk hiring amateurs when Mr. BigStuff Labor and Moving is ready to handle everything?
Their team makes local moving look easy because they do it right, every single time.
Want the ultimate moving resource? Save time with Mr. BigStuff's streamlined Moving Checklist that combines all their expertise into one easy-to-follow document. It's the perfect companion to this guide, with printable checklists you can check off as you go.
Don't spend another minute stressing about your move.
Make the call that will transform your moving experience from nightmare to dream come true.
Mr. BigStuff team are waiting to show you what a difference professional movers can make.
Call (517) 948-0894 today and haul yeah, let's get moving!
