Your step-by-step moving checklist: what to do eight weeks out, week by week, through moving day and after.
Spreading your move over two months turns one overwhelming job into a series of small, manageable tasks. Use this timeline to stay on track, whether you’re hiring movers, renting a container or doing it yourself.
Get the Printable ChecklistMoving Timeline
8 weeks before
- Set a moving budget and estimate costs with our local or long-distance moving cost calculator.
- Decide how you’ll move: full-service movers, a portable container or a rental truck.
- Start decluttering room by room. Sell, donate or toss what you won’t move.
- Request school and medical records, and research your new area.
6 weeks before
- Get at least three written mover estimates and vet each company. Use our hiring checklist.
- Book your movers, container or truck, especially for summer or month-end dates.
- Arrange storage if your move-out and move-in dates don’t line up.
- Collect boxes and packing supplies. See where to get moving boxes.
4 weeks before
- Start packing items you won’t need, such as seasonal clothes, books and decor.
- Label every box with its room and contents.
- Schedule utility shutoff at your old home and setup at your new one: electric, gas, water, trash, internet.
- Reserve elevators and parking, and ask your new building about move-in rules.
2 weeks before
- Change your address with USPS at the official usps.com site, and update banks, insurance, employer and subscriptions.
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you’re changing states.
- Confirm dates and details with your movers in writing.
- Use up perishable food and plan what to do with plants and pets.
1 week before
- Pack everything except daily essentials.
- Pack an essentials bag: medications, documents, chargers, toiletries, a few days of clothes.
- Disassemble furniture and bag hardware with labels.
- Defrost the freezer and clean appliances you’re taking.
The day before
- Finish packing and set aside anything you’re transporting yourself.
- Charge your phone and prepare cash or a card for tips.
- Confirm arrival time with the movers and plan a clear path for loading.
Moving day
- Walk through the home with the crew lead before loading.
- Review the inventory and bill of lading. Never sign blank paperwork.
- Do a final sweep of closets, cabinets and the garage before the truck leaves.
- At your new home, check items against the inventory and note damage before signing.
After the move
- Unpack essentials first, then work room by room. See how to unpack after moving.
- File any damage claim promptly. See how to file a moving claim.
- Register to vote, update your address everywhere else, and keep your moving receipts. Moving expenses are generally tax deductible only for active-duty military moving under orders.
Choose How You’ll Move
| Option | Best for | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Full-service movers | Hands-off moves and large homes | Moving companies guide |
| Portable container | Packing at your own pace, storage between homes | PODS cost guide |
| Rental truck | Local moves and tight budgets | U-Haul review |
| Labor only | DIY moves that need help loading | Moving labor |
Book your move
Compare local or long-distance movers early for the best dates and prices.
Local Quotes Long-Distance QuotesPack at your own pace
A PODS container lets you load over days or weeks. Save 10% with code WEBSAVE6.
Get a PODS QuoteMoving Checklist FAQs
When should I start preparing for a move?
Start about eight weeks ahead for most moves. That gives you time to declutter, compare movers and book your preferred dates, especially in the busy summer season.
What should I do first when moving?
Set a budget, decide how you’ll move, and start decluttering. Then get mover quotes and book early.
How do I change my address when I move?
Use the official U.S. Postal Service change-of-address service at usps.com, then update your bank, insurance, employer, subscriptions, and your driver’s license and vehicle registration if you’re changing states.
What should I pack in a moving essentials bag?
Medications, important documents, phone chargers, toiletries, a few days of clothes, basic tools, snacks, and any valuables you don’t want on the truck.
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