Ultimate Moving Checklist

6-8 Weeks Before Your Move

• Declutter – Begin sorting through your belongings, and donating, recycling and tossing items you no longer need or want.
• Hire Movers and Set a Moving Date – Ask friends and family for recommendations, research movers online, request moving quotes, and then pick a mover and schedule your moving date.
• Register the Kids for School – For families with school-age children, request transcripts and immunization records, and contact your new school district regarding enrollment.
• Pickup Supplies – If you’ve decided not to use packing services, you’ll need to purchase moving boxes in a variety of sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, etc.

4 Weeks Before Your Move

• Start Packing – Create a packing schedule and labeling system. Begin packing non-essential items first, such as out-of-season clothing and decorative items.
• Schedule Utility Transfers – Contact utility companies to schedule when services will be turned off at your old place and on at your new place.
• Request Time Off – Arrange to be off from work on moving day, and consider hiring a sitter or asking for friends or family to help if you’re moving with kids or pets.
• Organize Your Records – Gather all of your important financial, legal and medical records, including birth certificates, passports and licenses, and keep them in a folder or envelope. 
• Notify Important Parties – Inform banks, credit card companies, and other institutions of your new address. 
• Set Up Mail Forwarding – Submit your USPS Change of Address (COA) request at least 2 weeks in advance and up to 30 days prior to your move.

Final Week Before Your Move

• Pack a “First-Night” Kit – Include a change of clothes, toiletries, medications and other essentials.
• Finish Packing – Complete any last-minute packing tasks, including kitchen and bathroom items. 
• Empty & Wash Appliances – Empty and defrost the refrigerator and freezer, and clean all appliances.
• Double-Check Everything – Ensure all items are packed, labeled, and secured.
• Confirm Moving Arrangements – Verify that movers and utilities are scheduled as planned, and make a plan for payment and tipping.

Moving Day

• Protect Floors & Carpets – Consider putting down runners, adhesive floor protection film, flattened cardboard or old rugs.
• Prepare Moving Truck Area – Park personal vehicles out of the way and make sure the moving truck has clear access.
• Do a Final Walk-Through – Once the moving is done and the truck is loaded, take a few minutes to walk through each room and check cabinets, closets and even the shed.
• Direct Movers – Inform movers where to place furniture and boxes at the new location.