How to pack up and clean a full house in preparation for moving across country

Research moving services and book a moving company or rent a moving truck

Gather packing supplies such as boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers

Create a timeline and schedule for packing and cleaning tasks

Notify utilities companies, post office, and other relevant parties about your move and arrange for forwarding mail

Declutter and donate or sell any items you no longer need or want

Create an inventory list of your belongings for insurance purposes

Start with one room at a time and label each box with the room it belongs to

Pack non-essential items first, such as seasonal clothes, decor, or rarely used appliances

Wrap fragile items carefully with bubble wrap or packing paper

Use blankets or towels to protect furniture during transportation

Pack essential items last and keep them easily accessible for your arrival at the new house

Create an inventory list for each box to easily locate items in the new house

Clean each room thoroughly, starting from the top (ceiling, light fixtures) to bottom (floors)

Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including walls, windows, and furniture

Vacuum or sweep floors, and mop hard floors

Clean appliances, defrost the freezer, and empty and clean the refrigerator

Empty and clean cabinets and closets

Dispose of any hazardous materials properly according to local regulations

Confirm the moving date and time with the moving company or truck rental

Pack a separate bag with essentials for your first days at the new house (toiletries, clothes, bedding, basic kitchen supplies)

Take care of any necessary paperwork, such as updating your driver's license or registering your children in a new school

Confirm the address and availability of utilities (water, electricity, internet) at the new house

Notify friends, family, and important contacts about your new address

Make arrangements for the transportation of any plants, pets, or valuable/fragile items

Conduct a final walkthrough of the house to ensure everything is packed and cleaned

Close and lock all windows and doors

Take final meter readings and document them

Turn off all lights and appliances

Hand over keys to the landlord or real estate agent if required

Double-check that you have all important documents and valuables with you during the move

Remember to adjust this checklist according to your specific needs and circumstances.