How To Prevent Pests When Moving
Relocating to a new home is an exciting time in your life, but it can also be incredibly challenging, especially when it comes to pests. Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, protecting your belongings from unwanted guests is imperative.
Following the practical tips in this guide, you can help keep your move pest-free from start to finish.
Types of Pests To Watch Out for When Moving
Pests can be notorious for sneaking into boxes, furniture, and moving trucks during a relocation. Some of the most common include:
- Cockroaches: These resilient pests can hide in cardboard boxes and appliances or even glue their ootheca (egg cases) to moving materials.
- Rodents: Mice and rats may seek shelter in moving containers, especially if food is involved.
- Ants: Attracted to crumbs or sugary residue, ants can quickly invade boxes during a move.
- Bedbugs: Known for infesting mattresses and upholstered furniture, bedbugs can cause significant issues if transported to your new home.
- Spiders: Often hiding in crevices of furniture or storage items, spiders can easily travel unnoticed.
By understanding what to look for, you can take proactive measures to prevent these pests from tagging along.
Tips for Preventing Pests During a Move
Effective pest prevention requires careful planning and preparation. The steps below can help you protect your belongings while relocating to your new home.
Declutter Your Space
Prior to packing, sort through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. Excess clutter is a magnet for pests; reduce unnecessary items to help get rid of potential hiding spots. Donate, recycle, or dispose of old clothes, furniture, or storage items you no longer use.
Inspect & Clean
Be sure to inspect all belongings before packing and after unloading them into your new space. Watch out for droppings, chew marks, live or dead insects, and other signs of pests. After inspection, wash linens and clothing to eliminate potential pests or eggs. This will help minimize your risk of bringing pests into your new home.
Seal Entry Points
Keep pests from entering your boxes and furniture by sealing all entry points. Use sturdy packing tape to secure boxes and keep furniture with drawers and compartments tightly closed. For enhanced protection, consider using plastic covers for mattresses and upholstery.
Use New Materials
Old or used boxes may already be homes to pests. Rather than using these materials, invest in new packing products to minimize the risk of infestation. New cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape are less likely to attract pests to your new space.
Secure Moving Containers
If you’re using a moving truck or storage container, make sure it’s free of pests before loading your items into it. Carefully inspect the space for signs of pests and clean it out as needed. Keep containers sealed as much as possible during the move to prevent pests from entering.
Care for Furniture
Furniture can be a safe haven for pests like bedbugs and spiders. Vacuum and clean all furniture thoroughly before the move. Pay special attention to cracks, crevices, and under cushions where pests may hide.
Hire Pest Professionals
For added peace of mind, consider hiring a pest control company before your move. They can treat your current home and ensure your new space is pest-free prior to unpacking. This step is especially important if you’ve experienced pest issues in the past.
Trust Home Paramount Pest Control With Your Pest Control Needs
Dealing with pests while moving can be stressful, but with the right team by your side, it can be a breeze. At Home Paramount Pest Control, we offer the comprehensive pest control solutions you need to ensure your transition is smooth and pest-free from start to finish. Whether you need a pre-move inspection or ongoing pest management for your new place, we’re here to help.
Schedule a free pest inspection with the experts at Home Paramount Pest Control today.


Why Choose Us?
Providing Reliable Pest & Wildlife Solutions Since 1939
At Home Paramount Pest Control, we have been dedicated to delivering reliable pest and wildlife management solutions for over 85 years. Our long-standing presence in the industry speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. When you trust our team, you can always count on:
- Customized solutions to suit your specific needs
- Same-day service availability for pest infestation emergencies
- High-quality green products that are safe for the environment
- Complimentary pest inspections
- Affordable financing solutions tailored to your budget
Call us at 888-888-4663 to get started with a free pest inspection for your property today!
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