Moving Checklist

Moving is often seen as one of life’s most stressful experiences but it does not have to be that way. With the right plan in place and a clear timeline to follow, your move can be efficient, organized, and even enjoyable. Whether you are preparing for a local move or planning a cross country relocation, this complete moving checklist will guide you through every step of the process from start to finish.

Let’s break down everything you need to do beginning eight weeks before your moving day.

8 Weeks Before Your Move

Start the moving process by focusing on preparation and organization

  • Begin collecting estimates from professional movers. Compare services, check online reviews, and request a free moving quote from our team.

  • Set your moving budget. Include costs for movers, packing materials, travel, storage, temporary housing, cleaning, and tips.

  • Create a dedicated moving folder to organize quotes, receipts, contracts, and notes. This can be a physical folder or a digital file.

  • Begin researching your new community. Learn about schools, commute times, grocery stores, healthcare providers, and nearby parks.

  • If relocating for work, review what expenses are covered by your employer.

  • Build a personal moving to do list tailored to your situation.

Helpful tip: Start letting close friends and family know about your move early so they are available if you need help later.

7 Weeks Before Your Move

Now is the time to gather personal records and begin notifying important contacts

  • Request copies of medical, dental, vaccination, and prescription records.

  • Ask your current providers for referrals in your new area.

  • Arrange for transfer of school records if you have children.

  • Obtain veterinarian records and ensure your pets are up to date on vaccinations.

  • Gather legal and financial paperwork including wills, insurance documents, birth certificates, tax forms, and property titles.

  • Call your insurance agent to review updates to home, renters, or auto policies.

  • Contact your health club, local organizations, or volunteer groups to cancel or transfer memberships.

  • If you run a small business, notify clients or contractors about your upcoming address change.

6 Weeks Before Your Move

Start minimizing what you need to move and get serious about decluttering

  • Plan how to move valuables such as jewelry, heirlooms, and important documents. These should be carried with you or sent via insured certified mail.

  • Begin purging your home. Sort everything into keep, donate, sell, or toss.

  • Organize a garage sale or list valuable items online for local pickup.

  • Use up anything that cannot be moved such as frozen foods, bleach, aerosols, paint, or propane tanks.

  • Contact your insurance provider again if needed to confirm new coverage timelines.

Helpful tip: Take photos of valuable items for your records in case you need to file an insurance claim.

5 Weeks Before Your Move

Start packing and handling logistics

  • Call 561 531 4627 to order moving boxes and packing supplies. Include bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, and specialty boxes.

  • Pack items you use rarely such as books, seasonal decorations, and off season clothing.

  • Clearly label every box with its contents and destination room in the new home.

  • Finalize your official moving date and communicate it with all involved parties.

  • Submit a change of address form with the postal service. You can also choose to have your mail held at your new city’s post office.

4 Weeks Before Your Move

Time to confirm major services and utilities

  • Reserve your moving date online or by calling 561 531 4627.

  • Notify your current and future utility providers to schedule service shut off and set up. This includes

    • Electric

    • Gas

    • Water and Sewer

    • Internet and Cable

    • Phone and Cell Phone

    • Trash and Recycling

  • Arrange travel and accommodations for pets and children.

  • Put all pet records in your moving folder.

  • If you have not already held a garage sale this is your last chance.

Helpful tip: Schedule your utilities to start a day before your arrival to avoid any inconvenience.

3 Weeks Before Your Move

Now is the time to focus on special items and transportation

  • Plan how you will move plants. Many moving companies will not transport them.

  • Dispose of hazardous items such as paint, chemicals, propane, and cleaning supplies.

  • Take your car in for a maintenance check especially if you are moving a long distance.

2 Weeks Before Your Move

It is time to notify key contacts and finalize service transfers

Notify professional services

  • Accountant

  • Attorney

  • Doctor and Dentist

  • Financial Planner

  • Insurance Providers

  • Schools

Notify accounts and memberships

  • Banks and Credit Card Companies

  • Loan and Auto Finance Companies

  • Pharmacy

  • Magazines and Subscriptions

  • Streaming Platforms

  • Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services

  • Pest Control and Lawn Care

Notify government offices

  • IRS and State Tax Agencies

  • Social Security Administration

  • DMV and Vehicle Registration Office

  • Local Election Office

  • Veterans Affairs

Also confirm parking availability for the moving truck at both locations and request any needed permits. Begin planning meals to finish off remaining groceries. Create a welcome folder for the new homeowner with manuals, warranties, and contact info.

1 Week Before Your Move

This week is all about final preparations

  • Call 561 531 4627 to confirm all moving day details with your specialist.

  • If paying with a card contact your bank to avoid payment issues on moving day.

  • Print two copies of your bill of lading and keep them in your move folder.

  • Notify friends and family of your new address and moving company phone number.

  • Pack an essentials box including toiletries, medications, chargers, clothes, and important papers.

  • Drain gas from lawn equipment, grills, and heaters.

  • Drain and coil water hoses and defrost the fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before the move.

  • Fill prescriptions to ensure you have what you need during the move.

  • Measure large furniture and doorways in your new home.

Moving Day

You made it Here is what to do on moving day

  • Place floor and doorway protectors to prevent damage.

  • Supervise the moving crew and offer guidance as needed.

  • Load items in a strategic order leaving frequently used or last load items for the rear.

  • Check every room, closet, cabinet, and outdoor space before leaving.

  • Leave a note with your new address in case mail gets delivered by mistake.

Moving In

You are almost there

  • Do a walk through of your new home before the truck arrives. Check for cleanliness and any needed repairs.

  • Pick up mail at your local post office if it was held.

  • Direct movers and start unpacking by room for an easier process.

  • Ensure all utilities are active and test locks and smoke detectors.

After the Move

Wrap up and settle in

  • Keep all moving receipts, contracts, and important documents in your move file.

  • Update your driver’s license, car tags, and voter registration.

  • Explore your neighborhood and introduce yourself to your new neighbors.

  • Subscribe to local publications and stay informed about community events.

  • Take a moment to relax and enjoy your new home. You have earned it.

Ready for a Stress Free Move

Even the most complex moves can feel effortless with the right support and a solid plan. With this complete moving checklist and timeline in hand you will be prepared for every stage of your move. Whether you need help with packing, planning, or transporting your belongings our team is here to help.

Call 561 531 4627 or request your free moving quote today and let our experienced specialists guide you from start to finish.