Ready to Make Your Move?

Don't let the stress of moving overwhelm you. Let Pick and Pack Moving handle your local NJ move with care and expertise.

So, you're planning a move? We know exactly what you're going through - that mix of excitement about your new home and slight anxiety about the actual moving part. Well, you can take a deep breath because you've come to the right place. As your neighbors and local moving experts, we've helped countless families just like yours turn what could be a stressful moving day into a smooth, even enjoyable experience.

We're professional movers and fellow New Jersey residents. We offer local moving services, long-distance moves, labor help, storage and warehousing services, car shipping services, and a friendly environment. For our readers who are planning to move locally, we've created this moving guide that'll help you prepare stress-free for an otherwise stressful experience.

Think of this guide as your moving day companion - like having a friend who's been through it all before. We're sharing all our insider tips and tricks to help you navigate every step of your local move, from those first planning stages right through to settling into your new home. Whether you're moving from a cozy apartment in Hoboken or a family home in Princeton, we've got you covered.

Planning Your Move: First Steps

Moving isn't just about boxing up your personal items and hoping for the best - it's about proper planning and careful execution. The good news? Local moves are typically simpler than those long-distance moves, but they still deserve your attention to detail. Let's break down what you need to know to get started on the right foot.

What Makes a Local Move Different?

Local moves are different. When a long-distance move takes around two weeks, a local move within New Jersey is a different ballgame. Most local moves happen within 50 miles - think moving from Morristown to Montclair or Cherry Hill to Moorestown. This means you're looking at a different set of logistics and, thankfully, a different price tag, too.

Plus, local moves give you more flexibility with your timeline. Want to move just the heavy items first and handle smaller belongings yourself? No problem! That's the beauty of staying local.

Set Your Moving Timeline: Making Every Week Count

The key to a stress-free move? Giving yourself ample time to plan and pack without feeling rushed. Think of it as preparing for a big party - you wouldn't want to leave everything until the last minute, right?

Breaking Down Your Moving Schedule:

Here's your week-by-week game plan to keep you on track:

8 weeks before:

• Do a thorough home walk-through and list everything you own (yes, even that exercise equipment you never use!) to create a detailed inventory;
• Start researching professional movers and collecting quotes;
• Begin the great declutter - consider what sparks joy and what could spark joy for someone else. Sell or donate unwanted items.

4 weeks before:

• Schedule utility transfers and update your address with the post office;
• Start packing rooms you use less frequently and gather packing supplies like bubble wrap and air-filled plastic wrap for fragile items;
• Look into temporary storage options if needed.

2 weeks before:

• Tackle packing room by room but keep essential items accessible;
• Put together your box of essentials - think coffee maker, basic cooking supplies, and birth certificates;

Consider whether you need cleaning services for move-out day.

Start Budgeting: Understand Your Moving Costs

Let's talk about money - specifically, how to avoid any unexpected expenses that might pop up during your move. Think of your moving budget like planning a vacation: you want to account for everything upfront to avoid any stress later.

Your Moving Costs Will Typically Include:

• The basic moving service;
• Packing materials like boxes, bubble wrap, and tape;
• Any additional services you might need, like furniture disassembly, professional packing services, or temporary storage;
• Insurance options to protect your valuable items;
• A buffer for potential risks or extra costs during the moving process.

Finding A Perfect Moving Partner

Choosing the right moving company is like finding a good mechanic - you want someone you can trust who won't disappear when things get tough. Here's what to look for in your moving team.

Mastering the Art of Packing

Even if you're working with professional packers, knowing how to pack smart can save you time, money, and headaches. Let's make sure your belongings arrive at your new home safe and sound.

Your Essential Packing Supply List:

Here's what you'll need to get started:

• A variety of box sizes (trust us, one size doesn't fit all!);
• Plenty of bubble wrap (foam roll, stretch wrap, etc.), packing paper, and furniture pads;
• Strong packing tape and markers;
• Special materials for delicate items and heavier items like a pool table or musical instruments;
• Basic tools for taking apart bulky items like beds or dressers.

Pro tip: Don't skimp on packing materials - proper protection now means less risk of damage later. And remember, some items need extra TLC. That vintage record collection or your child's art projects might need special care or additional insurance coverage.

The Week Before Your Move

The final week before moving day is crucial for ensuring a smooth relocation. With careful planning, you can wrap things up efficiently and minimize additional expenses. Here’s what to focus on:

One week before your move:

The day before moving day:

Moving day: