Moving Checklist

This list contains most of the big tasks you will need to do (and some that you won’t) and suggested timeframes. Depending on your situation, you may need to add others.

8 Weeks Before

• Research moving companies and request in-home estimates.
• Sort through everything and start compiling a keep & discard list of your possessions.
• Purge! Donate any unnecessary possessions and host a yard sale.
• Get a floor plan (with room dimensions) of your new home to help you decide which furnishings you want to keep and which room they will go in.
• Start a file of moving-related papers and receipts.
• Locate schools, healthcare professionals and hospitals in your new location.
• Obtain copies of your children’s school records and your family’s medical records & arrange for record-transfers.

6 Weeks Before

• Purchase any necessary packing supplies: boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, tape, paper, and any specialty containers like wardrobe boxes.
• Choose a mover and sign contract.
• Contact your homeowner’s insurance agent about coverage for moving and secure more, if necessary.
• Contact insurance companies (auto, homeowner’s, medical, and life) to arrange for coverage in your new home.
• Start Packing! Begin with seasonal items and things you use on a rare occasion. Be sure to label every box with it’s contents and room it is to go in as well as keep a running list of each box that is packed.

4 Weeks Before

• Create a file of important papers, such as auto license, registration documents and title; any medical, dental and school records; birth certificates; wills, deeds, stock certificates, and other financial documents.
• Notify the following of your change of address:
  • Employer
  • Friends & Family
  • Post office
  • Banks
  • Credit card companies
  • Relatives and friends
  • Insurance agent, lawyer, tax/financial adviser
  • Magazine subscriptions
• Notify utility companies of date to discontinue/transfer service and/or establish service at your new home. Also arrange for final readings and bills, including refunds on prepaid services.
  • Electric
  • Heating oil
  • Internet service
  • Natural gas
  • Telephone
  • Television
  • Trash collection
  • Water
• Notify your state’s department of motor vehicle of your new address.
• If moving from an apartment, arrange for refund of your security deposit.
• Discontinue additional home services (housekeeper, gardener/lawn service, snow removal, and pool cleaner), if applicable.
• Start using up what is in your freezer, fridge and pantry. Perishables are a hassle to move, especially for long distances.

3 Weeks Before

• Make travel plans, if necessary.
• Make arrangements with condo or homeowner’s association to reserve elevator usage time if moving into or out of a high-rise building.
• Arrange to close existing bank accounts & safe deposit boxes and open new accounts in your new area.
• Arrange for child care on moving day.
• Have your rugs, curtains, and specialty linens cleaned, rolled, and wrapped. They’ll be fresh and ready to unroll at your new home.

2 Weeks Before

• Arrange special transport for your pets and plants.
• Contact your moving company and review arrangements for your move.
• Finish packing with the exception of a few essential items to get you through until moving day.
• Visit the pharmacy to refill any prescriptions and arrange to have any prescriptions be transferred to a pharmacy in your new area.

1 Week Before

• Pack moving-essential boxes—important documents, travel clothes, personal items and prescription medications.
• Make your last donation and arrange for a trash pickup to discard any last minute trash piles.

2-3 Days Before

• Confirm all final arrangements with your mover and other service providers.
• Arrange to receive the keys to your new home through your Realtor or landlord.