Ready to get your belongings out of storage and back into your life? Whether you're moving to a new home or simply downsizing, moving out of a storage unit can feel like a major project. It’s easy to forget a step, and one simple mistake could cost you extra time and money.
Don't worry. We've put together a complete checklist to ensure your move-out is seamless, stress-free, and leaves no stone (or box) unturned.
Part 1: The Prep Work (Before You Go)
Completing these tasks ahead of time will save you headaches and unnecessary fees.
- Confirm Your Notice and Date: Check your rental agreement for the required move-out notice period (usually 30 days). Inform the facility manager of your move-out date to avoid being charged for another month.
- Pay Your Final Bill: Settle any outstanding balance and ask for a receipt showing a zero balance. This prevents any future billing disputes.
- Gather Your Supplies: You'll likely need more than you think. Bring packing tape, boxes, bubble wrap, markers, cleaning supplies, and a dolly or hand truck. Don’t forget bottled water and snacks!
- Plan for the "Leftovers": Be honest with yourself about what you don't want. A professional hauling service like HAUL PROS is perfect for taking care of unwanted furniture, broken items, and general junk. Planning for this ahead of time is key.
Part 2: The Day of the Move (At the Unit)
Once you're at your unit, follow this step-by-step process for a smooth operation.
- Inspect and Assess: Before you start moving, quickly scan the unit. Remember, you're responsible for leaving it completely empty and clean to get your deposit back.
- Sort and Pack: Use a three-pile system: "Keep," "Toss," and "Donate/Sell." Sort everything from the "Keep" pile into labeled boxes. Put the "Toss" pile into a separate area for easy removal.
- Pack Strategically: Start by packing items from the back of the unit. Pack heavier boxes first and stack them at the bottom. Leave the most important items easily accessible.
- Take Photos: Once the unit is empty, take a photo to document its clean, empty state. This can be your proof that you left it in good condition.
Part 3: The Final Step - The Cleanout (The HAUL PROS Way)
This is the most critical part of your move-out and where a professional service becomes a lifesaver.
- Don't Leave Anything Behind: Your rental agreement likely states you must leave the unit "broom-clean." That means no boxes, no trash, no dust, and no forgotten items. Leaving even a single bag of trash can result in a cleaning fee or a loss of your security deposit.
- The Problem with Junk: Hauling away junk items is often a bigger job than it seems. You might have to make multiple trips, find a place to properly dispose of items, and deal with bulky, heavy objects.
- Make One Call, Get One Solution: Instead of renting a truck and doing all the work yourself, make it simple. Call HAUL PROS to handle the entire "Toss" pile for you. We will arrive on-site, load up all the unwanted items, and haul them away.
- Responsible Disposal: We don't just dump your stuff. We make sure to donate, recycle, and dispose of items properly and ethically, so you can feel good about your cleanout.
Checklist Complete: Now You Can Rest
Moving out of a storage unit doesn't have to be a headache. By following this complete checklist and making the smart choice to hire HAUL PROS for the final cleanout, you can save time, avoid fees, and make sure your move is a complete success.