We have created a comprehensive checklist to help you have a successful problem-free move. Be sure to download the PDF version and print it out, so you have a copy available after you disconnect your internet service at your old home.
1-2 Months Prior to Move
[ ] Make binder/folder for moving records (receipts, estimates, item lists, etc.)
[ ] Choose a moving method (truck rental, hiring movers, etc.) and retrieve cost estimates from sources
[ ] Contact employer to check if they cover any of your moving expenses
[ ] If you require storage, be sure to make proper arrangements
[ ] Set up disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new residence
[ ] Phone [ ] Internet [ ] Cable [ ] Water [ ] Garbage [ ] Gas [ ] Electric
[ ] Arrange how you will move vehicles, plants, pets and valuables
[ ] Sketch or use a floor plan to see how your furniture will be placed in the new residence
[ ] Have a yard sale, donate, sell, or trash items that you don’t need
[ ] Line up transfer of personal records (medical, children in school, etc.)
[ ] Retrieve copies of any records you may need (medical, dental, etc.)
[ ] Gather items required for moving (boxes, tape, stuffing/padding, markers, etc.)
[ ] Repair any items in your current residence that you have an obligation to fix
[ ] Return items borrowed, checked-out or rented
[ ] Retrieve any items you have lent out
[ ] In order for there to be less to move, try to consume/use most of your food supply
3-4 Weeks Prior to Move
[ ] Make final decision on moving method and prepare needed arrangements
[ ] Start packing non-essential items
[ ] Mark boxes by room and contents
[ ] Items that you would like to move personally, mark “Do Not Move”
[ ] For keeping pieces, parts and essential tools that you would like to keep until you move, mark as “Do Not Move- Parts”
[ ] Make an inventory of items/box contents and include serial numbers of items with value – This can be used as a chance to update your home inventory
[ ] Fill out a Change of Address form in the post office or online
[ ] Give your new address to important contacts such as:
[ ] Employers [ ] Family & Friends [ ] Attorney [ ] Accountant [ ] Others
[ ] Tell your credit card company, insurance agency, and any other company significant to you about your change of address
[ ] Change address or cancel automated payment plans and local accounts/memberships depending on if it is necessary
[ ] Schedule a maintenance checkup for your car, especially if your new residence is a long distance away
1-2 Weeks Prior to Move
[ ] Keep packing and clean as you pack
[ ] Items that you will need right away at your new residence, make sure to pack separately
[ ] Make arrangements to clear your schedule on moving day
[ ] Involve your kids in the move as much as possible, and find useful tasks for them to complete
[ ] If you have small children, find someone to watch them on moving day
[ ] Start to pack your suitcases with clothes and personal items for the trip
[ ] Check with whoever is involved, that your moving methods are still ready to go
[ ] Be sure your prescriptions are filled
[ ] Empty items out of your safety deposit box and secure those items for safe travel
[ ] Schedule cancellation of all services with your old residence
[ ] Newspaper [ ] Housecleaning [ ] Lawn [ ] Pool [ ] Water Delivery
[ ] Check all furniture for damages and be sure to record this on your inventory
[ ] Be sure all paperwork for the old and new residence is ready to go and completed
[ ] If your new residence is a long distance away, to prevent automated deactivation, let your credit card companies know where you are moving too
[ ] Remove flammable items such as paint, propane, and gasoline
[ ] Attempt to use up perishable food
2-4 Days Prior to Move
[ ] Confirm moving details and make sure you have all paperwork necessary for the move
[ ] Create a schedule for moving day
[ ] Make plans on when/how to pick up the truck (if rented)
[ ] Make preparations for moving expenses (lodging, food, moving)
[ ] Keep cleaning the house as you pack
[ ] Clean out your fridge and defrost the freezer
[ ] Be sure your essential tools are handy (screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, tape, etc.)
[ ] Pack a bag for essentials such as water bottles, pen/paper, snacks, documents, and anything else
[ ] Boxes and items that you are moving yourself, set aside (make sure you have room for these items)
Moving Day
[ ] Go early to pick-up truck/trailer if you are renting
[ ] Show movers/helpers through the house to tell them what needs to occur
[ ] Walk through your empty residence to check for things left behind – Take a look behind doors
[ ] Leave contact info for new residents in order for mail to be forwarded to you
[ ] Take inventory before movers leave with your things and then sign bill of lading
[ ] Check with your movers that they have the correct new address
[ ] Turn off the lights and lock the windows and doors
[ ] In order to lock up a rented truck, use a padlock to secure your possessions
At your new residence …
[ ] Make sure utilities are working– specifically power, water, heating, and cooling
[ ] Make an initial inspection, note all damages and take photographs if necessary
[ ] Vacuum as needed and clean kitchen (noteworthy to clean where furniture will be going)
[ ] Direct movers/helpers where to place items
[ ] Offer drinks and snacks to movers/helpers, especially if your helpers are volunteers
[ ] Start to unpack, beginning with the kitchen, bathroom and other essentials
Moving In – Weeks 1-2
[ ] When unpacking check for damages- Take notice of insurance claim deadlines
[ ] If necessary, replace locks and create at least 2 copies of your new keys
[ ] Make sure your mail is arriving at your new residence
[ ] Check that your previous utilities have been paid for and canceled
[ ] Finish your change of address checklist
[ ] Bank(s) [ ] Credit Cards [ ] IRS [ ] Loans [ ] Insurance [ ] Pension plans
[ ] Attorney [ ] Accountant [ ] Physicians [ ] Family support
[ ] Newspapers [ ] Magazines [ ] Licenses [ ] Memberships
[ ] Make time to get a local driving license and update your vehicle registration
[ ] Retrieve local phonebooks and maps
[ ] Depending on your needs & insurance, find new doctors, dentists, etc.
[ ] After you have moved in, update your home inventory, including pictures of the rooms
[ ] Update your homeowners insurance or renters insurance if it is required
