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Moving Checklist & Timeline

Moving doesn't have to be chaotic. Follow this timeline-based checklist to stay organized from the moment you decide to move until you're unpacked in your new home. Use our moving cost estimator first to budget your move, then work through this checklist.

8 Weeks Before Moving

  • Set your moving budget. Use the moving cost calculator to get a rough estimate and set a realistic range.
  • Research moving companies. Get at least three quotes from licensed movers. Check reviews on the BBB, Google, and Yelp. For DIY options, compare truck rental and portable container providers.
  • Declutter your home. Go room by room: donate, sell, or discard items you won't take. The less you move, the less you pay.
  • Create a moving folder. Keep all estimates, receipts, contracts, and inventory lists in one place — physical or digital.
  • Notify your landlord or list your home. If renting, review your lease for notice requirements. If selling, coordinate with your agent.
  • Request time off work. Block off moving day plus a day or two on either side for packing and unpacking.

6 Weeks Before Moving

  • Book your moving company or rental. Popular movers book up weeks in advance, especially during summer. Lock in your date.
  • Order packing supplies. Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and furniture blankets. Get 10-20% more boxes than you think you'll need.
  • Start packing off-season and rarely-used items. Holiday decorations, books, out-of-season clothes, and storage areas go first.
  • Label every box. Write the destination room and a brief description on at least two sides of each box.
  • Measure doorways and hallways. At both your current and new home: ensure large furniture will fit. Disassemble what won't.

4 Weeks Before Moving

  • Change your address with USPS. File a change-of-address online or at your local post office. Forward mail for at least 6 months.
  • Transfer utilities. Electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash service. Schedule disconnection at your old home and connection at your new one.
  • Update subscriptions and accounts. Banks, credit cards, insurance, streaming services, pharmacy, and any recurring deliveries.
  • Notify schools, doctors, and veterinarians. Request records transfers and fill new prescriptions if crossing state lines.
  • Pack most rooms. Leave out only daily essentials. Pack one room at a time to stay organized.
  • Plan for pets and plants. Moving companies generally won't transport them. Arrange separate transport.

2 Weeks Before Moving

  • Confirm all bookings. Reconfirm your moving company, truck rental, or container delivery date and time.
  • Prepare an "essentials" box. Pack a suitcase or clear bin with toiletries, a few changes of clothes, chargers, medications, snacks, important documents, and basic tools. This travels with you, not the moving truck.
  • Defrost the freezer. Do this at least 24 hours before moving day. Use up or donate remaining food.
  • Dispose of hazardous materials. Paint, propane tanks, cleaning chemicals, and motor oil cannot go on moving trucks. Take them to a local disposal facility.
  • Take photos of your current home. Document the condition after your belongings are out in case of security-deposit disputes.

1 Week Before Moving

  • Finish packing everything. All boxes should be sealed and labeled by now. The last few days are for cleaning, not packing.
  • Confirm parking and elevator reservations. If your building requires it, reserve the service elevator and secure a parking spot for the moving truck.
  • Withdraw cash for tips. Standard practice: $20-40 per mover for a full-day move, more for exceptional service.
  • Clean as you go. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum, and empty all cabinets and closets as they're packed up.

Moving Day

  • Do a final walkthrough. Check every room, closet, cabinet, and drawer. Open every window to check for forgotten items.
  • Take meter readings. Photograph utility meters for your final bills.
  • Meet the movers and walk them through. Point out fragile items and any special instructions. Have water available.
  • Lock up and hand over keys. Leave keys, garage remotes, and any access cards with the landlord or new owner as arranged.

After Moving In

  • Inspect delivered items. Check for damage before signing the bill of lading. Note any issues on the inventory sheet.
  • Unpack essentials first. Set up beds, bathroom, and kitchen before tackling other rooms.
  • Update your driver's license and vehicle registration. Deadlines vary by state — some are as short as 10 days.
  • Register to vote. Update your voter registration at your new address.
  • Explore your new neighborhood. Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital, and take-out spots.