Moving Checklist

Book your moving company or truck Confirm dates, get written estimate, and understand cancellation policy.

Start collecting packing supplies Boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap, packing paper. Check local stores for free boxes.

Create home inventory Document valuables with photos for insurance purposes.

Arrange time off work Request moving days plus a day or two to settle in.

Book travel if moving long distance Flights, hotels, or plan driving route with pet-friendly stops.

Research new service providers Find new doctors, dentists, vets, and other services in your new area.

Start packing rarely used items Out-of-season clothes, books, decorations, guest room items.

File change of address with USPS Visit usps.com or your local post office. Mail forwarding takes 7-10 days.

Update address with important contacts Banks, credit cards, subscriptions, employers, insurance companies.

Schedule utility disconnection/connection Electric, gas, water, internet, cable, trash service.

Transfer or cancel memberships Gym, clubs, library cards, community organizations.

Arrange pet and plant transport Research airline pet policies or plan for their care during the move.

Continue packing room by room Label all boxes clearly with contents and destination room.

Sell or donate remaining unwanted items Host a garage sale or schedule donation pickup.

Confirm moving company details Verify arrival time, payment method, and special requirements.

Update voter registration Register at your new address through vote.gov or your state's website.

Confirm travel arrangements Double-check flights, hotel reservations, and car rentals.

Prepare appliances for moving Defrost freezer, clean oven, disconnect washer hoses.

Return borrowed items Library books, neighbor's tools, borrowed dishes.

Collect items you've lent out Contact friends and family to retrieve your belongings.

Pack an essentials box Toiletries, medications, phone chargers, change of clothes, snacks, important documents.

Arrange cleaning for old home Schedule professional cleaning or plan to do it yourself after moving out.

Get cash for moving day tips $20-50 per mover for a full day is standard.

Disassemble furniture Take apart beds, tables, and large items. Keep hardware in labeled bags.

Do final walkthrough of old home Check all closets, cabinets, garage, attic, and outdoor areas.

Be present when movers arrive Review inventory, point out fragile items, and answer questions.

Verify items on moving inventory Check boxes and furniture against the inventory list.

Take meter readings Document electric, gas, and water readings at both homes.

Lock up and leave keys Return all keys, garage remotes, and access cards as agreed.

Supervise unloading at new home Direct movers to correct rooms. Check for damage before signing.

Check boxes for damage Note any damage on the bill of lading before signing.

Tip the movers Provide cash tips and any promised refreshments.

Set up beds and essentials Make sure everyone has a place to sleep tonight.

Test utilities Verify electricity, gas, water, and internet are working.

Change locks You don't know who has keys. Consider smart locks.

Update driver's license Most states require this within 30 days of moving.

Register vehicles Transfer registration to new state if applicable.

Locate circuit breaker and water shutoff Know where these are in case of emergency.

Test smoke and CO detectors Replace batteries and add detectors if needed.

Find new service providers Establish care with new doctors, dentists, and vets.

Enroll children in school Submit registration forms and required documents.

Meet the neighbors Introduce yourself and start building community.

Unpack systematically Kitchen first, then bathrooms, bedrooms, and other rooms.

File for homestead exemption Check your county's requirements for property tax savings.