The Ultimate Moving Guide & Checklist for a Stress-Free Move
Moving can be overwhelming, but with a well-structured plan, you can make the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s a month-by-month and week-by-week breakdown to help you stay organized, along with tips on saving money, when to splurge, and what to do after moving in. Don’t forget to scroll to the end of this post & download my Moving Guide & Checklist to print!
The Ultimate Moving Guide & Checklist
2-3 months before moving
Create a Moving Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on movers, packing materials, and other expenses.
Research Moving Companies: Get quotes from at least three movers or consider renting a truck if you’re doing it yourself.
Declutter & Donate: Go through every room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
Book Necessary Services: If hiring professional movers, book them now. If renting a truck, reserve it early to avoid last-minute price surges.
Check Lease or Home Sale Agreement: Ensure you know your move-out and move-in dates and any responsibilities you have before leaving.
6-8 Weeks Before Moving
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Order Packing Supplies: Get boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap, and packing paper.
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Start Packing Non-Essentials: Pack seasonal clothes, books, and items you don’t use daily.
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Transfer School & Medical Records: If you have kids, notify schools and arrange for records to be transferred. Schedule doctor visits if necessary before you move.
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Notify Employers & Plan Time Off: If moving long-distance, request the necessary leave from work.
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Research New Service Providers: Find new doctors, veterinarians, and other essential services.
4-5 Weeks Before Moving
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Change Your Address: Update your address with USPS, banks, credit cards, and subscriptions.
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Schedule Utility Transfers: Set up or transfer utilities like electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash pickup for your new home.
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Confirm Moving Arrangements: Verify dates and services with your moving company or truck rental.
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Sell or Donate Large Items: Arrange to sell, donate, or dispose of furniture and large appliances you’re not taking.
2-3 Weeks Before Moving
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Pack Up Most of Your Home: Begin packing the majority of your belongings, labeling boxes by room and contents.
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Make Travel Arrangements: If traveling long-distance, book flights, hotels, or rental cars.
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Notify Friends & Family: Let people know your new address and moving date.
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Plan for Pets & Kids: Arrange for pet boarding or childcare on moving day if needed.
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Confirm Final Details with Movers: Reconfirm arrival times, locations, and any last-minute details.
1 Week Before Moving
Pack an Essentials Box: Include medications, toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes, and important documents.
Disassemble Furniture: Take apart large furniture to make moving day easier.
Clean Your Current Home: Deep clean or hire a cleaning service if necessary.
Withdraw Cash for Tips & Last-Minute Expenses: Have small bills ready for movers or unexpected costs.
Moving Day
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Do a Final Walkthrough: Check closets, cabinets, and storage spaces to ensure nothing is left behind.
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Supervise Movers: Be present to guide them and answer questions.
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Lock Up & Turn Off Utilities: Ensure all lights, water, and gas are off before leaving.
After Moving: What to Do Next
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Unpack Essentials First: Focus on the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom essentials.
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Set Up Utilities & Internet: Confirm everything is working properly.
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Register Your Address: Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration if moving to a new state.
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Explore Your New Neighborhood: Find grocery stores, pharmacies, and emergency services.
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Meet Your Neighbors: Introduce yourself to start building a community.
Where to Update Your Address
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USPS (forward mail)
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Banks & credit cards
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Insurance providers
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Utility companies
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Employer & payroll
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Subscription services
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Vehicle registration & driver’s license
Ways to Save Money When Moving
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Move During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid summer and weekends when movers charge more.
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Get Free Boxes: Check local stores, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
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Declutter Before Moving: The less you move, the cheaper it is.
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Ask Friends for Help: Instead of hiring movers, get assistance from family and friends.
What’s Worth Spending Extra Money On?
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Professional Movers for Large or Valuable Items: Hiring professionals for heavy furniture or delicate antiques can prevent damage.
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High-Quality Packing Supplies: Invest in sturdy boxes and packing materials for fragile items.
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Cleaning Services: If you’re moving out of a rental, hiring cleaners can ensure you get your deposit back.
