Measure your large furniture and create a floor plan for your new home to ensure everything fits.

Start a 'Pantry Cleanout' plan, working through your pantry, fridge, and freezer to minimize food waste.

Gather important documents (passports, birth certificates, etc.) and keep them in a safe, separate folder.

Source quotes and book your moving company on Road Savior. This is your most important step!

Use small boxes for heavy items (like books) and large boxes for light items (like pillows and bedding).

Label boxes on the top and at least two sides. For critical boxes, include a brief list of contents.

Prepare a clear plastic bin for 'Open First' items: box cutter, paper towels, trash bags, basic cleaning supplies, and a few tools.

Don't overpack boxes. Keep the weight under 40-50 lbs (18-22 kg) to make them manageable.

Update your voter registration and driver's license with your new address.

Notify your insurance providers (health, auto, life) of your move.

If you have children, arrange for school records to be transferred to the new school district.

Set up mail forwarding to your new address in Montana. Don't miss important mail!

Take photos or a video of your empty, cleaned old apartment for your security deposit records.

Do one last walkthrough of every room, closet, and storage space before the movers leave your old home.

At the new home, check items off your inventory list as they come off the truck to ensure everything has arrived.

Have some cash on hand for a tip and refreshments (like bottled water) for your moving crew. A little kindness goes a long way!