Moving Checklist

There are a lot of, well, moving parts when it comes to moving—from before you pack the first box to the final walkthrough of your soon-to-be old place. Don’t miss a beat when it comes to preparations, arrangements, and who to notify about your move.

Early Preparation

As soon as you know you’ll be moving, begin cleaning out your attic, closets, and basement to minimize junk, clutter, and things you won’t need in your new place
In the weeks ahead, begin packing non-essentials such as wall art, knick-knacks, and books
Put all of your belongings in one of four categories:
1. Take With
2. Give Away (to friends, family or charities)
3. Sell
4. Throw Away
Keep a running list of things you’ll want to replace once you move in
Get outside: Clean your toolshed, garage, and gather outdoor tools such as hoses and pots
Finish consuming or discard perishable items from your refrigerator
Clean your stove and refrigerator — be sure to defrost your fridge and let dry at least one day before the move
At least two weeks before your move, have your car serviced to better guarantee no breakdowns, particularly in a lonz-distance move
Update your car registration and driver’s license to your new location, or at the very least, make sure you are aware of the timing and requirements, as they vary by state
Determine any need for trailer parking permits by checking with the local government entity at both your new and current address
Get copies of school, medical, legal, and other important records—for all members of the family
Make sure your children’s vaccinations and medications are up-to-date
Shred and destroy any old or unneeded financial records—some office supply stores also offer this as a free service
Reserve any airline/train tickets and lodging as necessary
If you rent a bank safe deposit box, consider withdrawing and depositing its contents in a safe one near your new address

Who to Notify

You will want to notify service providers of your change of address. This includes:

Banks and credit card companies
Cleaning services, lawn care, and pest control
Clubs and organizations
DMV
Doctor, dentist, and/or veterinarian
Financial advisor
Government entities (federal/state/local—for taxes, Social Security, etc.)
Insurance (house/auto/life)
Lawyer
Newspaper, TV, and/or internet provider
Pharmacy
Place of worship
Regular delivery services (natural gas, propane, water jugs, etc.)
Utilities/home services/newspaper for disconnection time
Post office
Your friends and family

New location arrangements

Contact utility services (electric, gas, phone, cable, internet, trash, water, etc.) for activation at your new home
Contact your child’s new school or daycare for registration

Packing Day

Ask your friends for help
Create an area for tools and cleaning supplies you’ll use on or before moving day
Schedule a walk-through with your landlord (if necessary)
Pack a bag of essentials that you can easily access
Plan for (or order) food and beverages
Withdraw funds from the bank to cover both expected and unexpected moving-day expenses
Pack valuables and important legal, medical, and personal documents separately from everyday items and take them with you rather than on the moving truck (medical records, passports, photo albums, jewelry, insurance and tax information, etc.)
Pack essentials that you’ll need as soon as you arrive to your new home separately (for easier access, pack these items last on the truck)
- Cleaning supplies, trash bags, and work gloves
- Toilet paper and toiletries
- Extension cords and batteries
- Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
- Tools (hammer, screwdriver, etc.)
- Bedding and linens
- Snacks, canned/box drinks
- Toys for kids

Before You leave

Leave your forwarding address for your home’s new residents
Do a final walk-through
Say your final goodbyes!