Step 19 to Selling Your Home: Hire Movers & Start Packing

Once we’re through inspections, appraisal, and loan approval, it’s time to start thinking about the move itself. This is the exciting part—your home is almost ready to close, and soon you’ll be starting your next chapter!

When to Hire Movers

Good movers book up quickly, especially in busy seasons like summer. As soon as you have a firm closing date, we recommend reserving your moving company. This way, you’ll:

• Lock in availability on your preferred day

• Have time to compare estimates from multiple companies

• Avoid last-minute stress or higher fees

If you’re moving from a condo building, check with your HOA or property management company about:

• Move-out fees

• Elevator reservations

• Any moving restrictions (such as specific days/times you’re allowed to move)

• When speaking with movers, let them know if your building has stairs vs. an elevator and which floor you’re on so they can accurately schedule time and staff.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask movers to bring wardrobe boxes—they’ll move hanging clothes directly from your closet to the truck, saving you tons of time.

💡 Pro Tip: Always check reviews and ask if the company is licensed and insured before signing a contract.

Packing Strategy

Start gathering boxes and supplies early. Options include:

• Free boxes on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace

• U-Haul, Uline, or UsedCardboardBoxes.com for affordable packing materials

• For eco-friendly moving supplies, check out reusable moving box companies in your area

Packing always takes longer than you think, so start early! Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Declutter First

   • Donate, sell, or toss items you don’t plan to bring with you.

   • Less to pack = less to move = lower cost.

2. Start with Non-Essentials

   • Pack seasonal clothes, décor, and items you won’t need before closing.

   • Label boxes by room for easy unpacking.

3. Create an “Essentials Box”

   • Include things you’ll need immediately after moving (toiletries, basic kitchenware, chargers, meds, important documents).

4. Protect Valuables

   • Jewelry, passports, and financial documents should travel with you, not in the moving truck.

DIY vs. Professional Movers

• DIY Move: Best for smaller moves, local relocations, or if you want to save on costs. You’ll need to rent a truck and gather supplies.

• Professional Movers: Ideal for larger homes, long-distance moves, or if you’d rather avoid the heavy lifting. Many companies also offer packing services.

Timing Your Move

You must be completely moved out by the time closing begins.

• Unfortunately, closings cannot be scheduled for an exact time far in advance. We can request AM (8–9 a.m.) or PM (1–3 p.m.), but final details are usually confirmed only a few days before closing.

• To avoid last-minute stress, we recommend moving out the day before closing.

• If that’s not possible, schedule movers very early the morning of closing (around 6 a.m.) so you’re out before the settlement begins.

Don’t Forget About Pets

Moving can be stressful for pets. Consider boarding them, having them stay with a friend, or using daycare while movers are in and out of your home.

Items to Leave Behind

As a general rule:

• Anything attached to the walls (shelving, curtain rods, mounted fixtures) stays.

• Freestanding items, furniture, and personal belongings go with you.

• Not sure about something? Ask us before removing it—taking the wrong items can cause issues at the final walk-through.

Bottom Line

Hiring movers and starting the packing process early makes your transition smooth and stress-free. With the finish line in sight, now’s the time to prepare for your big move!

💡 Need trusted local moving company recommendations in South Jersey?
Kathleen Quarterman, Quarterman Realty Group partners with movers we know and trust. Call 609-948-4306 or email info (@) quartermangroup.com and we’ll connect you.

← Previous: Step 18: The Appraisal

• Next →: Step 20: Schedule the Closing Date

• See All Steps…