Complete guide · Moving
The Ultimate Moving Checklist
Every task in a move, organized by when to do it — from booking a mover eight weeks out to setting up the first bathroom on arrival day.
Moving is a project-management problem wearing the costume of a physical one. Households that move well start eight weeks out, purge before they pack, and keep one list.
This is that list. Work top to bottom, and use the linked articles when a step needs more detail.
01 Eight weeks out: decide and estimate
Every later decision depends on the method and the budget you set now.
- Choose between full-service movers, a container, or a rental truck
- Get three in-home or video estimates — never a quote sight-unseen
- Verify licensing and complaint history before booking
- Start purging in storage areas, where decisions are easiest
- Set a total budget including deposits, travel, and setup
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02 Six weeks out: book and sort
Dates fill first in late spring and summer. Booking now is the difference between choosing a date and accepting one.
- Book the mover, container, or truck in writing
- Order or source packing supplies
- Schedule donation pickups and list items for sale
- Arrange transport for vehicles, pets, or specialty items
- Request school records if children are changing schools
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03 Four weeks out: pack and notify
Start with what you will not use before the move, and start the administrative list — it is longer than it looks.
- Pack off-season clothing, books, and decor
- Label every box by room and contents on two sides
- Schedule utility disconnection and connection with a one-day overlap
- File a change of address and notify banks, insurers, and employers
- Arrange time off for moving day and the day after
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04 Two weeks out: confirm everything
This is the week to remove uncertainty rather than add tasks.
- Confirm the mover in writing with arrival window and contacts
- Update homeowners or renters insurance to the new address
- Refill prescriptions and transfer pharmacy records
- Reserve elevators or loading zones at both ends
- Arrange care for children and pets on moving day
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05 One week out: essentials
Pack the two boxes that make the first 48 hours livable.
- Essentials box per person: medication, chargers, toiletries, clothes
- First-night kit: bedding, towels, shower curtain, paper goods, coffee
- Defrost the refrigerator at least 24 hours ahead
- Disassemble furniture and bag hardware to each piece
- Withdraw cash for tips and incidentals
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06 Moving day
Your job is documentation and direction, not lifting.
- Walk the crew through and flag fragile and do-not-move items
- Read the bill of lading and inventory before signing
- Keep valuables, documents, and essentials with you
- Final sweep: closets, attic, crawl space, garage, under sinks
- Photograph the empty home
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07 Arrival and the first week
Make a small number of things fully functional, then expand.
- Set up beds and one complete bathroom first
- Note any damage on the delivery paperwork before signing
- Rekey the locks and test smoke and CO alarms
- Locate the water shutoff, panel, and HVAC filter
- Break down boxes daily
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Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I start planning a move?
Eight weeks for a straightforward local move, ten to twelve for a long-distance move or a peak-season date.
What should I pack last?
Bathroom items, bedding, kitchen basics, and anything used daily. These become your essentials and first-night boxes.
What should never go on the moving truck?
Documents, medication, jewelry, cash, keys, irreplaceable electronics, and anything flammable or corrosive.