Moving day is exciting, but without proper preparation, it can also be chaotic and stressful. Whether you’re upgrading to a larger home, downsizing, or relocating within the city, a well-organized plan is essential.
This guide will help you prepare for a seamless residential moving experience–from packing smart to coordinating with your movers.
Here’s how to get ready and make the most of your big day.
10 Ways to Prepare for Residential Moving Day in Fort Collins
Start Planning Early
The best moves are the ones that don’t feel rushed. Begin preparing at least 4-6 weeks before your move. Create a checklist of what needs to be done each week leading up to moving day. This includes:
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Notifying your landlord (if renting)
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Scheduling your residential moving Fort Collins company
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Collecting packing supplies
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Decluttering your home
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Setting up utilities at your new residence
An early start helps you avoid last-minute stress and gives you time to tackle each task at your own pace.
Choose the Right Moving Company
Hiring professional movers can make all the difference. Fort Collins is home to several reputable moving services, but it’s important to pick a team that specializes in residential moving Fort Collins locals trust.
Look for companies that offer:
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Transparent pricing
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Positive online reviews
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Proper licensing and insurance
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In-home or virtual estimates
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what’s included, how they handle fragile items, and their policy on rescheduling or cancellations.
Declutter and Downsize
There’s no better time to purge unused items than right before a move. Go through your home room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss.
Less clutter means:
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Fewer boxes to pack and unpack
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Reduced moving costs
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A cleaner, more organized new home
Hold a garage sale, post items on Facebook Marketplace, or donate to local charities. Every item you don’t move saves time and money.
Pack Strategically
Packing is one of the most time-consuming parts of any move. Start with items you use least often–seasonal décor, books, guest room belongings–and work your way toward daily essentials.
Pro tips:
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Label boxes by room and contents
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Use color-coded stickers for fast identification
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Wrap fragile items with bubble wrap or towels
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Don’t overload boxes–balance weight evenly
Pack a “first night” bag with essentials like toiletries, medication, clothes, chargers, and important documents so you’re not rummaging through boxes when you arrive.
Take Care of Utilities and Address Changes
Schedule your utility transfers or shut-offs a few days before the move. This includes:
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Electricity
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Water
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Gas
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Internet
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Trash and recycling
Also, don’t forget to update your address with:
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USPS
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Banks and credit cards
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Subscription services
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Work and school contacts
Staying ahead of these updates prevents missed mail or disruptions in service at your new home.
Protect Floors and Doorways
Protecting your current and new home from damage is a simple but important step. Movers will likely bring supplies, but you can help by:
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Using doormats and floor runners
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Removing doors if necessary for big furniture
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Padding door frames and stair railings
Small steps like these go a long way in avoiding scratches, dents, or dirty carpets.
Coordinate Parking and Building Access
If you live in an apartment, condo, or tight neighborhood, parking can be tricky. Ensure your movers have easy access to load and unload.
Check with property managers for:
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Elevator reservations
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Loading dock availability
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Parking permits or street closures
Proper coordination keeps your move on schedule and reduces hassle for everyone involved.
Keep Important Items with You
Not everything should go on the moving truck. Carry essential items and valuables with you, including:
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Jewelry
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Cash
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Important documents (IDs, passports, moving contracts)
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Laptops and electronics
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Medications and pet supplies
It’s also a good idea to keep cleaning supplies and a toolkit handy for last-minute fixes or cleanups.
Communicate with Your Movers
On moving day, stay available and proactive. Greet the crew when they arrive, confirm what’s being moved, and answer any questions they have. Good communication ensures:
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Boxes are placed in the correct rooms
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Fragile items are handled with care
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Last-minute surprises are avoided
Most reputable residential moving Fort Collins teams will appreciate clear direction–it helps them do their job better and faster.
Do a Final Walkthrough
Before you leave your old home, walk through each room to make sure nothing is left behind. Check:
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Closets and drawers
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Cabinets and pantries
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Attics, basements, and garages
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Behind doors and under beds
Take photos of your clean apartment or home if you’re renting to help ensure a smooth return of your security deposi
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to residential moving Fort Collins. From hiring the right team to packing efficiently and planning your day in detail, each step helps ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
Whether you’re moving across the street or across town, these tips will help you stay organized, reduce stress, and start the next chapter of your life on the right foot.
re you looking for a reliable apartment moving company in Fort Collins?
FOCO Moving is the right call when it’s time to start planning your move. Our team provides complete moving solutions at affordable rates. We take care all types of moving services, no matter the scale. For inquiries, contact us today at (970) 363-1773 or send us a message.
