Moving to a new home can be exciting — a fresh start, new surroundings, and new opportunities. But let’s face it: moving can also be stressful if you’re not prepared.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, staying organized can make the process smoother and far less overwhelming.
Here’s the ultimate 30-step moving checklist to keep you on track — from two months before the move to the moment you arrive in your new home.
🗓️ 8 Weeks Before Moving
- Create a Moving Binder or Digital Folder
Keep all your estimates, receipts, contracts, and notes in one place. - Set a Moving Budget
Include movers, packing supplies, cleaning, travel, and deposits for utilities or housing. - Hire a Moving Company or Reserve a Truck
Get at least 3 written quotes and book early to secure your preferred moving date. - Sort and Declutter
Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss. The less you move, the easier (and cheaper) it’ll be. - Gather Important Documents
Keep passports, medical records, insurance papers, and financial documents in a safe, easy-to-access folder.
📦 6 Weeks Before Moving
- Order Moving Supplies
Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and labels. - Start Packing Non-Essentials
Pack items you won’t need before the move — seasonal decor, books, or off-season clothes. - Label Everything Clearly
Use color-coded labels by room (e.g., blue for kitchen, yellow for bedroom). - Measure Furniture and Doorways
Make sure your furniture fits through doors and into your new home layout. - Take Inventory
Keep a list or photos of valuable items for insurance and tracking.
🏠 4 Weeks Before Moving
- Notify Utilities and Services
Schedule disconnections and connections for:
- Electricity, gas, and water
- Internet and cable
- Trash and recycling
- Change Your Address
File an official change of address with USPS, and update your address with:
- Banks and credit cards
- Insurance providers
- Subscriptions and deliveries
- Plan for Kids and Pets
Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day, and gather school or vet records. - Confirm Moving Company Details
Double-check your date, time, and contact info. - Use Up Pantry and Freezer Items
Start cooking with what you have to reduce waste.
🧹 2 Weeks Before Moving
- Pack Essentials Boxes
Include daily items like toiletries, towels, snacks, and chargers — one box per person or room. - Handle Change of Residence with Employer
Update HR for payroll, benefits, and company communications. - Return Borrowed Items and Pick Up Dry Cleaning
Tie up loose ends before moving day. - Plan Your Route
Map out travel time, rest stops, and hotels if it’s a long-distance move. - Prepare Appliances
Defrost your freezer, drain water lines, and clean your oven.
🚚 1 Week Before Moving
- Confirm All Details Again
Reconfirm movers, elevator access, parking permits, and key handoff times. - Finish Packing
Leave out only what you’ll need in the final few days. - Set Aside Valuables
Jewelry, cash, and important documents should travel with you, not the movers. - Clean Your Old Home
Do a deep clean or hire a service — this helps with getting your deposit back or impressing the buyers. - Dispose of Hazardous Materials
Paint, propane, and cleaning chemicals usually can’t be moved. Dispose of them safely.
🏡 Moving Day!
- Take Final Meter Readings
Record your gas, water, and electric readings (and take photos if possible). - Do a Walkthrough
Check every closet, cabinet, and drawer before locking up. - Supervise the Movers
Make sure boxes are handled properly and items are checked off your inventory list. - Clean Your New Home Before Unpacking
It’s much easier to clean before the furniture arrives! - Unpack Essentials First
Start with the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom — the rest can wait a day or two.
🧭 Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Move
- Label cords and electronics before disassembling them.
- Keep cash and snacks handy for moving day.
- Photograph furniture setups if you want to replicate them in the new home.
- Reward yourself — order pizza, relax, and celebrate your new beginning!
💡 The Bottom Line
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just takes organization and planning.
By following this 30-step checklist, you’ll stay on top of every detail and make your relocation smoother, faster, and less stressful.
Whether you’re moving into your first home or upgrading to your forever one, preparation is the key to turning the chaos of moving into a seamless transition.