Moving guide
The San Antonio moving checklist
Everything to do before a local move, in the order it actually needs doing. Keep it open on your phone, or work through it a section at a time.
By the We Moving Co. team · Updated · 3 min read
The short version
- Book movers two to four weeks out, earlier for summer dates and the last days of the month.
- Reserve elevators, loading docks and parking at both addresses as soon as you have a date.
- Pack the rooms you use least first, and label every box with the room it goes to.
- Start utilities at the new place a week or two ahead so everything works on day one.
- On move day, keep valuables, medication and documents with you, not on the truck.
1.Eight to six weeks out
This is the decision stage. The fewer things you move, the shorter and cheaper the day, so start by deciding what isn't coming.
- Pick a move date, and a backup if you can be flexible
- Measure large furniture and the doorways, stairs and elevator at the new place
- Sell, donate or schedule a bulky item pickup for what you're leaving behind. San Antonio's Solid Waste Management Department handles bulky collection inside the city
- If you rent, check your lease for the notice you have to give
- Get a price for your move and compare crew sizes with our instant price tool
2.Four weeks out
Lock in the people and the building access.
- Book your movers and confirm the date
- Reserve the elevator, loading dock or parking at both addresses
- Ask both buildings or HOAs about move hours and truck parking rules
- Ask whether either building needs a certificate of insurance from movers
- Start packing rooms you rarely use: guest rooms, the garage, holiday decorations
- Collect boxes, tape and a thick marker
- Line up childcare and pet care for move day
3.Two weeks out
Switch over the services. Our moving to San Antonio checklist lists who to call for power, water and trash.
- Schedule utilities to start at the new address the day before you move in, and stop at the old one the day after
- Set up USPS mail forwarding and update your address with your bank, employer and insurance
- Eat down the freezer and pantry
- Pack everything except what you use every day
- Confirm gate codes and parking passes for the crew
4.The week of the move
Get the house ready for the crew, and get yourself ready for the first night.
- Pack a first-night box: sheets, towels, chargers, medication, toiletries and coffee
- Set aside valuables, documents, medication and keys to carry yourself
- Use up or give away propane, fuel, paint and cleaning chemicals; movers can't carry them
- Empty, defrost and unplug the fridge the night before
- Your move lead confirms your arrival window the day before. Check the forecast too
5.Move day
A smooth morning saves real time on the clock.
- Save the parking spot closest to the door for the truck
- Walk through the house with your move lead and point out fragile pieces and anything that isn't coming
- Keep pets and small kids in a closed room or with a sitter
- Keep hallways and paths clear
- Before you leave, check closets, cabinets, the attic and the garage one last time
6.After the move
You're in. A few things to finish while you unpack.
- Look over furniture before the crew leaves and point out any visible damage right away
- Unpack the kitchen and bedrooms first
- If you came from out of state, start your Texas driver license and vehicle registration
- Update your voter registration at the new address
7.San Antonio extras
A few local things that catch people out.
- Heat: in summer, start early, keep water on hand for everyone, and run the AC at the new place before you arrive. Read more in the best time to move
- HOAs: many newer neighborhoods limit where trucks park and when moves can happen
- Events: Fiesta in April and big downtown events affect parking and road closures
- Storms: low-water crossings can flood fast in heavy rain, so check the forecast the night before
Questions people ask
When should I book movers in San Antonio?
Two to four weeks ahead is ideal. Summer dates and the last few days of any month fill first, so book earlier if your move lands there.
What should I pack first?
Start with the rooms and things you use least: guest rooms, the garage, books, out-of-season clothes and decorations. Leave the kitchen basics and bathroom for the last few days.
What can't movers take?
Hazardous materials like fuel, propane, paint, chemicals and ammunition stay off the truck. Keep cash, jewelry, medication, important documents and keys with you.
Want the number for your move?
Answer a few questions and see your price in about a minute. Nothing is charged to book.
