Relocating with indoor plants requires special care and preparation to ensure they thrive in your new home. Unlike furniture or boxes, plants are living organisms that can easily become stressed during a move. This checklist, prepared by our professional moving team, will help you transport your green companions safely and keep them healthy throughout the journey.
A Few Weeks Before the Move
- — Check local regulations: If you’re moving to another state, verify whether certain plants are restricted due to agricultural or environmental regulations.
- — Inspect for pests and diseases: Treat your plants for insects or mold to avoid spreading problems to your new home.
- — Repot into plastic containers: Heavy ceramic pots may break during transport. A few weeks before the move, transfer plants into lightweight, unbreakable plastic pots.
- — Prune and tidy: Trim excess foliage and remove dead leaves or stems to reduce plant stress and make packing easier.
- — Adjust watering routines: Water moderately the week before moving day but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot during transportation.
A Few Days Before the Move
- — Plan for temperature changes: Keep plants away from drafts, direct sunlight, or heating vents.
- — Prepare transport boxes: Line sturdy boxes with plastic or a small tarp, and cushion your plants with newspaper or packing paper to keep them secure.
- — Label everything clearly: Mark boxes as “LIVE PLANTS – THIS SIDE UP” to ensure careful handling by movers.
Moving Day
- — Transport plants yourself if possible: If you’re moving locally, keeping plants in your own vehicle gives you greater control over temperature and care.
- — Protect from heat or cold: Maintain a comfortable temperature in the car and avoid leaving plants inside for extended periods.
- — Handle with care: Keep boxes upright and avoid stacking other items on top.
After the Move
- — Unpack plants right away: They need fresh air and natural light as soon as possible.
- — Allow time to acclimate: Some leaves may wilt or drop after the move—this is normal. Keep watering consistent and avoid immediate re-potting.
- — Return to original pots if needed: Once the plants settle, transfer them back to decorative containers.
Extra Tips from Our Moving Experts
- — Group small plants together in open boxes for easier carrying.
- — Use paper collars around tall stems for added stability.
- — Avoid packing plants in completely closed boxes for long trips—air circulation is important.
- — Take special care with fragile species like orchids or succulents; they may require separate handling.
Taking a few simple precautions ensures your indoor plants stay healthy and vibrant after the move. At Quick Move, we understand that your greenery is part of your home’s personality—our team is always ready to help you relocate them with the same care and respect you give them every day.
Checklist for Moving with Indoor Plants

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Address: 808 Ahua Street, Honolulu, HI 96819