Moving, transport and cleaning

Checklist for your move: 3 months before the move

Contracts, Finance & Insurance

Checking the new rental agreement: Before you sign the new rental agreement, it is important to check all the details carefully. Make sure that you agree to the terms and conditions and that all agreements you have made with the landlord are recorded in writing. Termination of the old rental agreement: Terminate the old rental agreement in good time. Be sure to pay attention to the notice periods in order to avoid possible additional costs. Adjust standing order: Don't forget to adjust your standing order for the rent of the new place of residence in good time so that there are no delays or problems with the first payment. Inform insurance companies: Inform your household contents and liability insurance company about the upcoming move. In some cases it may make sense to take out special moving insurance to cover damage during transport. Check the conditions and decide whether this is relevant for you. Create a moving budget: Create a detailed list of all expected costs associated with the move. This will help you avoid surprises and manage your cash flow during the move.

DIY moving vs. professional moving company

Moving yourself or using a professional moving company: Once you have created your budget, you can consider whether you would like to organize the move yourself or whether you would prefer to hire a professional moving company. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. A professional company may be more expensive but will save you time and possible stress. Choosing a moving company: Compare and research different offers if you want to use a moving company. This will help you find the best company for your needs. Sometimes it also helps to ask friends for tips.

Organization and preparation

Clearing out and clearing out: Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need. Sort out old clothing, furniture, or other items and decide what can be donated, sold, or discarded. There may be items that you want to keep but don't want to go into your new apartment. In these cases it may make sense to have one storage room to rent. Apply for vacation for moving: In Switzerland, by law you are entitled to at least one free moving day. Plan this well in advance and talk to your employer about necessary days off. Find helpers: If you don't hire a moving service, look for friends or family members who can help you in good time. It is often helpful to have several helpers, especially when lifting heavy objects.

Changes of address and notices

Make sure that you report your new address to important institutions such as banks, insurance companies and your employer in a timely manner. This ensures that all important documents and correspondence find their way to your new address. You should definitely inform these institutions about your change of address:

• Bank/PostFinance
• Place of work
• Tax office
• Report your move to the residents' registration office (note the deadline)
• Road traffic office
• Health insurance and insurance
• Electricity plant
• Gasworks
• Waterworks (for single-family homes)
• Serafe radio and TV distribution
• AHV compensation fund for self-employed people and pensioners
• Doctor/Dentist
• Kindergarten/School
• Vehicle ID card/driving license (note deadline)
• Magazine and newspaper subscriptions

2 months before the move

Organization and preparation

Create an inventory list:  Preparing for the move is best started with a thorough inventory of all your possessions. A detailed inventory list will help you keep track of which items you own, which you might want to get rid of, and which you want to take with you to the new apartment. This list also makes unpacking easier later because you know exactly what is in which box. Create a packing plan:  An efficient packing plan will save you a lot of time and stress. Think strategically: Which rooms do you want to pack first? As a rule, you start with the rooms and objects that you use less often. What items will you need until the last moment? This could be kitchen utensils, bed linen or daily toiletries. Plan to pack these items last.

Transport and logistics

Planning the transport routes:  Regardless of whether you choose a moving company or take the move into your own hands, it is important to think about the logistical challenges. This particularly applies to bulky pieces of furniture. Will the large sofa fit through the door? Is there a lift and if so, how big is it? Are stairwells narrow or winding? All of these factors can complicate the move. It therefore makes sense to come up with a plan in advance as to how bulky items should be transported. With these 9 tips you can make moving stress-free. Planning your route to your new home:  Moving day can be very hectic. To avoid unnecessary complications, it makes sense to plan the route to your new home in advance. This not only includes the best route from A to B, but also possible obstacles such as no-parking zones. You should also check where you can park at your new location, whether you need a special permit and whether there are any restrictions on parking moving vehicles. This will ensure that moving day goes smoothly and without any avoidable delays.

1 month before the move

Packing materials and preparation

Ordering moving materials:  Once the moving date has been set, it's time to think about the necessary packing materials. This includes sturdy moving boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap for fragile items, adhesive tape and possibly special protective covers for furniture and electronics. It may make sense to order a few additional boxes if you need more packing material than initially expected. Pack early:  Moving is a good opportunity to look through and clear out your belongings. Once that's done, start packing up items you don't currently need. This includes, for example, seasonal decorations, winter clothing in summer or camping equipment that you only need once a year. Applying for vacation for the move:  To make the moving day stress-free, you should submit vacation to your employer in good time. In some countries or with certain employers there are legal regulations or company agreements that give you at least one day off for the move. Adjusting the standing order for the rent:  Don't forget to cancel the standing order for the rent of your old apartment in good time and set up a new standing order for the rent of the new apartment. This way you avoid double payments or late payments.

Formalities and registrations

Re-registration at the residents' office:  An often underestimated but very important step after moving is re-registering at the residents' office or citizens' office. This should be done within the legally required period to avoid possible fines. The new address is officially registered, which is relevant for many administrative processes, for example for elections, vehicle registrations or the broadcasting fee. It is advisable to find out in advance about the required documents and the exact deadlines.

2 weeks before the move

Continuation of packing

After packing began last month, it is now time to systematically work through the remaining rooms. First, focus on items and spaces that you don't use every day. This could be, for example, guest rooms, storage rooms or the attic. Remember to label boxes well and possibly note categories or rooms on them. This will make it easier for you to find everything again later.

Service providers and post office

Notification of service providers:  It is important that you inform your service providers in a timely manner about your move. This is particularly true for the internet and telephone providers, as they often need a few weeks' notice to ensure a connection in the new apartment. But other service providers, such as newspaper subscriptions or cleaning services, should also be informed in order to adapt deliveries or services to the new address. Set up a forwarding order at the post office:  Even if you've tried to inform all relevant authorities about your move, it may happen that you've forgotten someone. To ensure that your mail reaches you in your new apartment, we recommend sending it to the post office. This service automatically forwards letters and parcels that are still addressed to your old address to your new address for a certain period of time. This will prevent important documents or shipments from getting lost.  

1 week before moving

Preparing to move

Dismantling furniture : Depending on which pieces of furniture you want to take with you, dismantling may take some time. Larger furniture such as cupboards, beds or tables should be dismantled in advance. It is advisable to store all screws, dowels and small parts in labeled bags and to attach them directly to or in the piece of furniture so as not to lose them. If there is furniture that you want to keep but don't want to move straight into the new apartment, then a storage room can be a good solution. Planning for Moving Day : Having a detailed plan for moving day can work wonders. Create a timeline as to when which room should be removed and who is responsible for which tasks. If you hired a moving company, share this plan with them. It is also useful for friends and family who are helping to know what is needed, when and where they are needed. 2-3 days before the move  

Packing and coordination

Finalizing Packing : Now it’s time to pack the very last boxes. These are usually everyday items that you need until the end, such as your toothbrush, your favorite dishes or your current wardrobe. It's a good idea to pack a separate box or bag with the absolutely necessary items for the first few days after moving so that you don't have to unpack everything straight away. Think of a change of clothes, necessary hygiene items, medication and perhaps a few snacks or basic foodstuffs. Take important documents and valuables with you : Pack important documents such as ID cards, passports, insurance documents, certificates or certificates safely and separately and be sure to transport them personally. These documents are often difficult to replace and should therefore be specially protected. A well-lockable document folder can be of good use here. You should also transport valuables such as jewelry or expensive electronics such as laptops and tablets yourself.

Household preparations

Start by emptying the fridge and freezer gradually . Use the last few days before the move to use up existing food so that as little as possible has to be thrown away. After you have emptied both, they should be thoroughly cleaned and defrosted. This way you prevent unpleasant smells and leave the kitchen in good condition. Food for the helpers : Regardless of whether they are professional moving helpers or friends and family – a little refreshment in between is always gratefully accepted. Have snacks such as sandwiches, fruit or granola bars on hand and make sure you have plenty of drinks, especially if the move is on a hot day. Arrangement with the moving company : If you have hired a moving company, you should do one last check. Clarify final details, confirm arrival time and ensure all necessary information is available to ensure a smooth process. Check the transport vehicle : If you have rented a moving truck yourself, you should check it in advance. This not only applies to technical aspects such as tire pressure or oil level, but also the availability of necessary equipment such as tension straps, blankets or a hand truck. A well-prepared vehicle minimizes the risk of damage to the goods being moved and makes transport much easier.

Moving day

Process and organization

Get up early : Moving day will be long and intense, so an early start is particularly important. Prepare everything the night before so you can start the day relaxed and make sure you get enough sleep. Provide cleaning supplies, trash bags, and first aid supplies . These items should be ready to hand so that you can react quickly if necessary. This means you can react quickly if there is something to clean, if you have to take out the rubbish or if you need to treat small injuries. Instruct movers : If you have hired friends or family members to help, they should know exactly what to do. Assign tasks, explain where boxes go, and make sure everyone knows what is expected of them. Pack Last Items : There are always some things that are left until the last moment. These should be packed quickly and carefully on moving day. Think about things like toiletries, the cell phone charger, or the breakfast dishes. Take photos of all the rooms in the old apartment : Taking photos of the empty and cleaned rooms serves as evidence of the condition of the apartment when it was handed over. These photos can be very useful in the event of any disagreements with the landlord about the condition of the apartment. Note and submit meter readings : Before you leave the old apartment, write down the meter readings for gas, water and electricity. This information should then be sent immediately to the supplier and/or the landlord. Unpack basic supplies : Once you arrive at the new place, you should unpack everything you need for the first night and the next morning. This includes, for example, bed linen, towels, basic food and crockery as well as important documents and valuables.

After the move

Setup and customization

Unpack the remaining boxes and make your apartment comfortable. Moving is a great opportunity to give your home a new coat of paint. There are often furniture and objects that don't fit into the concept of your new home. Here you have the option of renting a storage room to store them. storabble offers the largest range of storage space in Switzerland. Dispose of or store moving boxes: Consider whether you want to save the boxes for future use or pass them on for reuse. Final cleaning in the old apartment: Make sure that the old apartment is thoroughly cleaned before returning the key.

• Hand over old apartment to landlord: Organize an appointment with your landlord to hand over the apartment and clarify any final details.

A successful start in the new home

Briefly introduce yourself to the neighbors. A welcome aperitif or a barbecue evening is always well received. Help your children find their way around. When moving, the child's usual environment changes, which can be stressful. Help them find their way in the new environment and help them find new friends. This checklist should help you make the moving process even more organized.

Transport when moving – the most important points

Transport, in particular, is a major challenge when moving. Careful planning is required to ensure that your items reach their new destination undamaged and efficiently. The following points should definitely be taken into account: Suitable Vehicle : Depending on the amount and size of your belongings, you may need anything from a small van to a large truck. Make sure the vehicle you choose meets your needs. If you're using your own car, you'll want to make sure it's in good condition for the job. Secure items : Secure everything to prevent movement during transport. Use straps, blankets, and other protective materials to prevent items from slipping, which can lead to damage or accidents. Plan your route and access conditions : Research the best route to your new home. Consider road conditions, potential traffic, and any restrictions regarding large vehicles (if you're using a truck). Loading and unloading strategy : You should have a clear plan on how you will load and unload your items. Heavy and sturdy items usually go in first, while fragile items should be easily accessible. If you seek help, make sure everyone understands their roles during the process. Also make sure you can unload easily at the new location. You may need to reserve parking spaces or request no-parking zones. Store unused furniture:  If there is furniture that is not going into the new apartment, it can be helpful to store it in advance . This makes transport easier for you on moving day.

4 different moving boxes

Moving can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to packing items. However, with the right moving boxes, this process is much easier! Here are four different types of moving boxes that might be useful for your move. Standard Moving Box : This is the typical box that most people associate with moving. It is sturdy, usually made from double corrugated cardboard and is ideal for most household items. Books, clothing and other everyday items can be safely stored here. Clothing box with a rail : This is particularly suitable if you want to keep your clothes wrinkle-free and in good condition. This oblong box is equipped with a hanging rod for hanging clothes such as coats, suits and dresses. This means they stay in shape throughout the move and don't need to be folded. Glass and plate boxes : Fragile items such as glasses, cups and plates must be packed with particular care. These boxes have dividers or cell dividers that protect each item individually and minimize the risk of breakages. Picture box : Special picture boxes are essential for framed works of art, mirrors or photos. They are flat and provide the necessary protection for such sensitive and often valuable items. In addition to these specialized boxes, it's always a good idea to have high-quality packaging materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper and tape on hand. This means that all of your items, regardless of their condition or size, are safe and protected throughout the entire move. Here you can find out how to Pack moving boxes correctly.

The best time to move

Are you planning to move but don't know when yet? Each season has its advantages and disadvantages that you should weigh up. The long school holidays make the transition easier for children, and in the summer many people use the holiday period to move. However, the heat in summer can be stressful. Fall has milder weather and often more movers, meaning higher prices can be expected in college towns. Although winter is less popular, it often offers cheaper rates and better moving company availability. However, snow and early darkness can make moving difficult. Many consider spring to be ideal because of the mild temperatures and feeling of new beginnings, but due to high demand, the cost of a moving company is often higher. In summary, there is no one moving time that is best. It is important that you know what your priorities are. Each season offers different benefits, and planning is crucial to making the move as smooth and stress-free as possible. The long school holidays make the transition easier for children, and in the summer many people use the holiday period to move. However, the heat in summer can be stressful. Fall has milder weather and often more movers, meaning higher prices can be expected in college towns. Although winter is less popular, it often offers cheaper rates and better moving company availability. However, snow and early darkness can make moving difficult. Many consider spring to be ideal because of the mild temperatures and feeling of new beginnings, but due to high demand, the cost of a moving company is often higher. Find a detailed guide to the best one here moving time!

Moving and cleaning

The question often arises as to whether you should clean your old apartment yourself or hire a professional cleaning company after you move. The advantages of a cleaning company are relief, frequent acceptance guarantee and skilled workers. Of course, you can also clean the apartment yourself. However, you should make sure that you have all the necessary cleaning supplies. Cleaning areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, windows, floors, ceilings and walls require special attention. You should also ensure that damage and defects are identified and corrected. If there is a lack of space in the new apartment, it can be helpful to book an external storage room.