The Complete Moving Checklist
Moving can feel overwhelming, but a good checklist makes all the difference. Here's everything you need to do, organized by timeline.
6 Weeks Before Moving
Start planning early to avoid last-minute stress. This is when you lay the groundwork for a smooth move.
Checklist
- Create a moving budget : Include deposits, moving costs, packing supplies, and unexpected expenses
- Declutter and sort belongings : Decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard
- Research moving options : Get quotes from at least 3 moving companies, or price out truck rentals
- Start collecting packing supplies : Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, packing paper
- Notify your current landlord : Give proper notice as required by your lease
- Request time off work : For moving day and potentially a day or two after
4 Weeks Before Moving
Time to start packing and making arrangements. Focus on rooms and items you use less frequently.
Checklist
- Book your moving company or truck : Confirm dates, times, and costs in writing
- Start packing non-essential items : Seasonal clothes, books, decorations, guest room
- Label boxes clearly : Room destination and contents on multiple sides
- Change your address with USPS : Set up mail forwarding at usps.com
- Contact utility providers : Schedule disconnection at old place, connection at new place
- Set up internet service : Schedule installation for move-in day if possible
- Get renter's insurance : Most landlords require proof before move-in
Pro tip:Create an inventory list as you pack. Number your boxes and keep a list of what's in each one. This helps with unpacking and insurance claims if anything gets damaged.
2 Weeks Before Moving
Continue packing and start handling administrative tasks. Most of your home should be in boxes by now.
Checklist
- Confirm moving arrangements : Call to verify date, time, and address
- Update your address : Banks, credit cards, subscriptions, employer, DMV
- Transfer prescriptions : Find a new pharmacy if needed
- Arrange pet and child care : For moving day if needed
- Use up perishable food : Plan meals around what's in your fridge and pantry
- Return borrowed items : Library books, tools from neighbors, etc.
- Start cleaning current place : Clean rooms as you empty them
1 Week Before Moving
Final preparations. You're almost there!
Checklist
- Pack an essentials box : Toiletries, phone charger, medications, change of clothes, important documents, snacks
- Defrost your freezer : If bringing your refrigerator, defrost 24 hours before
- Disassemble furniture : Beds, desks, and large items:keep hardware in labeled bags
- Confirm key pickup : Know when and where you'll get keys to new place
- Prepare payment for movers : Cash for tips, payment method they accept
- Check the weather forecast : Plan for rain or extreme temperatures
Moving Day
The big day is here. Stay organized and keep your essentials box with you.
Morning Checklist
- Do a final walkthrough : Check all closets, cabinets, and storage areas
- Take photos of old place : Document condition for security deposit
- Read all utility meters : Note final readings
- Supervise the loading : Direct movers, note fragile items
At Your New Place
- Do a walkthrough before unloading : Document any existing damage with photos
- Check that utilities are on : Water, electricity, gas
- Direct furniture placement : Easier to do it right the first time
- Test all locks : Make sure you have keys for all doors
- Complete move-in checklist : Document everything for your landlord
Critical:Take timestamped photos and videos of every room before unpacking. This protects your security deposit by documenting the property's condition when you moved in.
After You Move In
Take care of these tasks in your first week to settle in properly.
First Week Checklist
- Submit move-in documentation : Photos and checklist to landlord
- Test all appliances : Report any issues immediately
- Locate important things : Circuit breaker, water shutoff, fire extinguisher
- Update your driver's license : Most states require this within 30-60 days
- Register to vote : Update your voter registration address
- Meet your neighbors : Introduce yourself
- Find local essentials : Nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital