Last Updated: February 2026

Moving to a new home is exciting, but without proper planning, it can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you're relocating across town or moving to a new state, having a comprehensive moving checklist ensures nothing falls through the cracks. This guide breaks down everything you need to do—from eight weeks before moving day to settling into your new home.

The average American moves 11.7 times in their lifetime, and each move costs between $1,400 (local) to $4,300 (long-distance) according to the American Moving and Storage Association. With proper planning, you can minimize costs, reduce stress, and make your transition as smooth as possible.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Starting early gives you the luxury of making thoughtful decisions rather than rushed ones. This phase focuses on the big-picture planning that sets the foundation for a successful move.

Research and Book Movers

• ☐ Get quotes from at least 3 moving companies (in-home estimates are more accurate)
• ☐ Verify mover credentials: Check USDOT number, insurance, and reviews on BBB
• ☐ Compare DIY options: Rental trucks (U-Haul, Penske, Budget) vs. full-service movers
• ☐ Book your preferred option—popular dates (month-end, summer) fill fast
• ☐ Confirm insurance coverage: Full value protection vs. released value
• ☐ Read the contract carefully before signing anything

Create Your Moving Budget

• ☐ Calculate total moving costs (movers, supplies, travel, deposits)
• ☐ Set aside 10-15% contingency for unexpected expenses
• ☐ Research tax deductions: Job-related moves may qualify (check current IRS rules)
• ☐ Check if employer offers relocation assistance
• ☐ Open a separate moving fund if needed

Start Decluttering

• ☐ Go room by room, deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or trash
• ☐ Measure furniture to ensure it fits in your new space
• ☐ Host a garage sale or list items online (Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp)
• ☐ Schedule donation pickup from Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, etc.
• ☐ Dispose of hazardous materials properly: paint, batteries, chemicals

The less you move, the less you spend. Moving companies charge by weight and volume, so every item you declutter saves money. Plus, it's a fresh start—why bring items you haven't used in years?

Notify Important Parties

• ☐ Give notice to your landlord (check lease for required notice period)
• ☐ Notify your employer about your upcoming move and any time off needed
• ☐ Inform your children's school and request records transfer
• ☐ Contact your healthcare providers for medical records and referrals

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

With the major decisions made, this phase focuses on logistics and preparation. You'll gather supplies and begin the systematic packing process.

Gather Packing Supplies

• ☐ Boxes in various sizes: small (books, heavy items), medium (kitchen, toys), large (linens, pillows)
• ☐ Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
• ☐ Packing tape and tape dispenser (get more than you think you need)
• ☐ Bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items
• ☐ Markers for labeling (different colors for different rooms)
• ☐ Furniture pads and moving blankets
• ☐ Mattress bags to protect beds

Begin Packing Non-Essentials

• ☐ Start with storage areas: attic, basement, garage
• ☐ Pack seasonal items: holiday decorations, out-of-season clothing
• ☐ Box up collectibles and décor you don't use daily
• ☐ Pack books and media (use small boxes—they get heavy fast)
• ☐ Label every box with contents and destination room

Handle Address Changes

• ☐ File USPS change of address online at usps.com ($1.10 identity verification)
• ☐ Update your driver's license (check state deadlines—usually 30-60 days)
• ☐ Notify banks and credit card companies
• ☐ Update voter registration
• ☐ Change address with insurance providers: auto, health, life
• ☐ Update subscriptions: magazines, meal kits, streaming services

Arrange Utility Transfers

• ☐ Schedule disconnect dates for current address (usually day after move)
• ☐ Set up utilities at new address: electricity, gas, water, trash
• ☐ Transfer or set up internet/cable (schedule installation early)
• ☐ Get final meter readings at old address

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

The move is becoming real. Now you'll tackle room-by-room packing and finalize all the logistical details.

Continue Systematic Packing

• ☐ Pack room by room, completing each before moving to the next
• ☐ Create an inventory list of valuable items (helpful for insurance claims)
• ☐ Take photos of electronics before disconnecting cables
• ☐ Keep hardware in labeled bags taped to disassembled furniture
• ☐ Pack a "first night" box with essentials (toiletries, clothes, chargers, snacks)

Confirm Moving Details

• ☐ Reconfirm moving date with your moving company or truck rental
• ☐ Verify arrival time window and get emergency contact numbers
• ☐ Confirm payment method: check, cash, or credit card
• ☐ Prepare tip money for movers (typically $20-50 per mover for full-day moves)

Plan for Pets and Plants

• ☐ Arrange pet care for moving day (board them or have a friend help)
• ☐ Update pet tags and microchip info with new address
• ☐ Get veterinary records if moving to a new area
• ☐ Research plant moving regulations (some states restrict certain plants)
• ☐ Water plants a few days before (not the night before—too heavy and messy)

Handle Special Items

• ☐ Arrange professional crating for valuable artwork or antiques
• ☐ Drain gas from lawn equipment (required for safe transport)
• ☐ Defrost and clean refrigerator 24-48 hours before move
• ☐ Plan for safe transport of valuables: jewelry, important documents, cash

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

You're in the home stretch. Focus on finishing packing and handling last-minute logistics.

Final Packing Push

• ☐ Pack remaining rooms, leaving only daily essentials out
• ☐ Disassemble furniture that needs it (beds, tables, shelving)
• ☐ Clean out pantry: use up or donate perishables
• ☐ Return borrowed items and collect things you've lent out
• ☐ Complete your inventory with box counts per room

Property Matters

• ☐ Schedule professional cleaning of old home (if required by lease)
• ☐ Document current home condition with photos/video (for security deposit)
• ☐ Gather all keys, garage remotes, and access cards to return
• ☐ Arrange final walkthrough with landlord or property manager

Confirm New Home Access

• ☐ Verify closing date and key pickup (if buying)
• ☐ Confirm lease start date (if renting)
• ☐ Get access codes for building, gates, or smart locks
• ☐ Measure doorways and stairways for large furniture
• ☐ Reserve elevator time if moving into an apartment building

1 Week Before Moving Day

Final countdown! This week is about wrapping up loose ends and preparing for the big day.

Final Preparations

• ☐ Confirm moving company arrival time (call 2-3 days before)
• ☐ Pack suitcases with clothes for the next few days
• ☐ Prepare snacks and drinks for moving day
• ☐ Charge all devices and portable chargers
• ☐ Withdraw cash for movers, tips, and emergencies

Create Your Essentials Kit

Pack a bag or box that travels with you (not on the truck) containing:

• ☐ Important documents: IDs, lease/closing papers, moving contract
• ☐ Medications and first aid kit
• ☐ Phone chargers and power banks
• ☐ Toiletries and change of clothes
• ☐ Snacks, water bottles, and coffee supplies
• ☐ Basic toolkit: screwdriver, pliers, utility knife
• ☐ Toilet paper and paper towels
• ☐ Sheets and towels for first night
• ☐ Pet food and supplies if applicable
• ☐ Kids' comfort items: favorite toys, blankets

Prepare Your Home

• ☐ Clear pathways for movers (inside and outside)
• ☐ Protect floors and doorways with cardboard or moving blankets
• ☐ Plan parking for the moving truck
• ☐ Label rooms at new home to match box labels

Moving Day

The day has arrived! Stay organized, stay calm, and let your preparation pay off.

Morning Routine

• ☐ Wake up early—movers often arrive between 8-10 AM
• ☐ Do a final walkthrough before movers arrive
• ☐ Strip beds and pack bedding last
• ☐ Check all cabinets, closets, and storage spaces
• ☐ Keep your essentials kit accessible

Working with Movers

• ☐ Review the inventory sheet before loading begins
• ☐ Point out fragile or valuable items
• ☐ Supervise loading—be present to answer questions
• ☐ Take photos of items as they're loaded
• ☐ Keep important boxes and valuables with you

Before Leaving Old Home

• ☐ Final walkthrough—check every room, closet, and cabinet
• ☐ Check mailbox one last time
• ☐ Turn off all lights and appliances
• ☐ Lock all doors and windows
• ☐ Leave keys as arranged with landlord or new owner
• ☐ Note final meter readings for utilities

At the New Home

• ☐ Arrive before the truck if possible
• ☐ Check utilities are working
• ☐ Direct movers to correct rooms
• ☐ Inspect items as they're unloaded
• ☐ Note any damage on the inventory sheet before signing
• ☐ Pay movers and provide tips

First Week in Your New Home

You made it! Now focus on settling in and making your new house feel like home.

Immediate Priorities

• ☐ Set up beds and unpack bedroom essentials
• ☐ Organize the kitchen—you'll need to eat!
• ☐ Locate the circuit breaker and water shut-off valve
• ☐ Check all smoke detectors and CO detectors
• ☐ Unpack the bathroom with towels and toiletries
• ☐ Set up internet (if not done already)

Safety and Security

• ☐ Change locks or rekey all exterior doors
• ☐ Test all door and window locks
• ☐ Install or update security system
• ☐ Meet your neighbors—they're your first line of security
• ☐ Locate nearest hospital, police, and fire station

Administrative Tasks

• ☐ Update driver's license (if not done already)
• ☐ Register vehicles in new state if applicable
• ☐ Register to vote at new address
• ☐ Find new doctors, dentists, and veterinarians
• ☐ Enroll children in new school
• ☐ Join local community groups (Nextdoor, neighborhood associations)

Ongoing Unpacking

• ☐ Unpack systematically—finish one room before starting another
• ☐ Break down boxes as you go and recycle
• ☐ Make a list of items to buy (curtains, cleaning supplies, etc.)
• ☐ Document any issues with the property for landlord or warranty

Expert Packing Tips and Strategies

How you pack is just as important as what you pack. These pro tips will save you time, money, and headaches.

Packing Heavy Items

• Use small boxes for heavy items (books, canned goods, tools)
• Distribute weight evenly in each box
• Never exceed 50 lbs per box—movers and your back will thank you
• Reinforce bottoms of heavy boxes with extra tape

Protecting Fragile Items

• Wrap each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap
• Use dish pack boxes with dividers for glasses and stemware
• Fill empty spaces so items can't shift
• Mark "FRAGILE" on all sides, not just the top
• Pack plates vertically (like records)—they're less likely to break

Efficient Labeling System

• Color-code by room: green for kitchen, blue for bedroom, etc.
• Number each box and keep a master inventory list
• List contents on the side (not top) so you can read stacked boxes
• Mark priority boxes that should be unpacked first
• Take photos of box contents before sealing

Specialty Items

• Electronics: Use original boxes if possible; photo all cable connections
• Artwork: Use picture boxes or make custom protection with cardboard
• Clothing: Keep on hangers in wardrobe boxes; use garbage bags as garment bags
• Jewelry: Transport personally; never put in the moving truck
• Important documents: Keep with you in a fireproof folder

Understanding Moving Costs

Moving costs vary significantly based on distance, volume, and services. Here's what to expect in 2026.

Additional Costs to Budget For

• Packing supplies: $100 - $300
• Insurance: $150 - $500 (full value protection)
• Storage (if needed): $100 - $300 per month
• Cleaning services: $150 - $400
• Tips for movers: $50 - $200 total
• Utility deposits: $100 - $300
• Pet transport: $200 - $1,000 (long distance)

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Moving Checklist Summary

Moving is a marathon, not a sprint. By following this comprehensive timeline and checking off each task, you'll arrive at your new home feeling organized and in control.

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