Moving Checklist

Moving is one of those things that's impossible to keep entirely in your head. There are dozens of tasks spread across weeks, and forgetting even one (like transferring utilities) can create real problems. This checklist breaks the move down by timeline so nothing falls through the cracks.

4 Weeks Before Moving

This is the planning phase. Most of these tasks are administrative but they take time to process, so starting early matters.

• Notify your landlord or start closing process with your real estate agent
• Research and book a moving company or reserve a rental truck
• Start collecting free boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, or Buy Nothing groups
• Create a moving budget (movers, supplies, deposits, utility setup fees)
• Begin sorting belongings room by room: keep, donate, sell, trash
• Notify your employer if your commute or tax situation will change
• Start using up pantry and freezer items you don't want to move

2-3 Weeks Before Moving

The transition phase. You're locking in logistics and starting to actually pack.

• File a change of address with USPS (takes effect in about a week)
• Transfer or set up utilities at the new address: electric, gas, water, internet
• Update your address with your bank, insurance, subscriptions, and employer
• Pack rooms you use least first (guest room, storage areas, seasonal items)
• Label every box with contents AND destination room
• Take photos of electronics setups before disconnecting them
• Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day
• Confirm moving company details or truck reservation

1 Week Before Moving

Final preparations. By now most of your home should be in boxes.

• Pack a "first night" box: sheets, towels, toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchen supplies, medications
• Defrost the freezer if you're not taking the fridge
• Confirm utility shutoff dates at old address and start dates at new address
• Do a final sweep for items to donate or trash
• Prepare an envelope with cash for tipping movers
• Charge all devices and portable batteries
• Pack suitcases with a few days of clothes (like you're traveling)

Moving Day

• Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, cabinet, and outdoor area
• Check that all windows are closed and locked
• Read final utility meters and take photos
• Leave keys, garage remotes, and mailbox keys for the landlord or new owner
• Verify nothing was left in the attic, basement, garage, or shed
• Take photos of the empty space for security deposit documentation

After Moving In

• Update your driver's license and vehicle registration
• Register to vote at your new address
• Update your address with your doctor, dentist, and pharmacy
• Locate the circuit breaker, water shutoff, and gas shutoff at the new place
• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Change the locks or re-key if previous tenants had keys