The Ultimate Chicago Moving Checklist: What to Do Before, During, and After Your Move.

Moving in Chicago can feel like a full-time job — between city permits, elevator reservations, and unpredictable weather, there’s a lot to juggle. Whether you’re relocating to a downtown high-rise or a suburban home, this checklist from A2Z Moving will help you stay organized every step of the way.

Before the Move: Plan and Prepare

1. Book Your Movers Early Chicago’s moving season peaks between May and September. Schedule your move at least 3–4 weeks in advance to lock in your preferred date and rate.

2. Reserve Parking and Elevators If you live in an apartment or condo, contact your building management about elevator reservations. For street parking, check if you need a City of Chicago parking permit or temporary “No Parking” signs for the moving truck.

3. Declutter and Donate Before you pack, sort through what you actually need. Donate gently used items to local organizations like The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, or The Chicago Furniture Bank.

4. Gather Packing Supplies You’ll need sturdy boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Pro tip: label boxes by room and priority to make unpacking faster.

5. Notify Important Contacts Change your address with the USPS, banks, insurance companies, and subscriptions. Don’t forget to update your city vehicle sticker and parking zone permit if applicable.

6. Schedule Utility Transfers Arrange to have your electricity, gas, internet, and water turned off at your old home and activated at the new one by move-in day.

During the Move: Stay Organized and Communicate

1. Be Ready When Movers Arrive Have boxes sealed, furniture cleared, and pathways open. If it’s an apartment move, confirm elevator access ahead of time.

2. Protect Floors and Walls Lay down mats or old blankets to avoid damage, especially in winter or rainy weather.

3. Keep Valuables and Essentials Separate Carry important documents, jewelry, medication, and a change of clothes with you — not on the moving truck.

4. Double-Check Each Room Do a walkthrough before leaving. Open all closets, cabinets, and drawers to ensure nothing gets left behind.

After the Move: Settle In

1. Unpack Smart Start with essentials: kitchen, bathroom, and bedding. Then work through one room at a time.

2. Inspect for Damage Check your furniture and boxes. If anything’s damaged, document it and contact your moving company promptly to start a claim.

3. Explore Your New Neighborhood Take a walk, locate the nearest grocery store, coffee shop, and public transit stops. Chicago’s neighborhoods each have their own charm — enjoy discovering yours.

4. Leave a Review If you had a great experience, share it! Reviews help local movers like A2Z Moving continue to grow and improve.

Final Thoughts

Moving in Chicago doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning and the right team on your side, it can be smooth, efficient, and even exciting.

At A2Z Moving, we’ve helped hundreds of Chicago residents relocate with ease. Contact us today for a free quote — and check one more thing off your moving checklist.