# The Complete Moving Checklist: Everything to Do Before, During, and After Your Move Published: 2019-01-09 > Moving is inherently stressful. We cover each stage of the process so you can plan, budget, and move on to the exciting part of a new home. ## Key Takeaways The average American moves [approximately 11.7 times in a lifetime](https://www.census.gov/topics/population/migration.html), and each move can involve 50 or more individual tasks spread across two months or longer. Without a plan, critical steps slip through the cracks β€” forgotten utility transfers, last-minute packing chaos, and surprise costs that blow your budget. This complete moving checklist breaks every task into a clear, week-by-week timeline so nothing gets missed. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, this moving checklist timeline walks you from eight weeks out through your first week in your new home. **Jump to the phase you need:** - 8 Weeks Before Moving - 6 Weeks Before Moving - 4 Weeks Before Moving - 2 Weeks Before Moving - 1 Week Before Moving - Moving Day Checklist - Post-Move Checklist - Moving Tips for Every Situation - Quick-Reference Summary - FAQs > **πŸ“‹ Download the Free Printable Moving Checklist (PDF)** > > Want this entire timeline in a printer-friendly format you can stick on your fridge or tuck into your moving binder? Download our free printable moving checklist β€” every task, every week, on a single document. *Coming soon β€” check back shortly for the download link.* [Get your offer](#) ## 8 Weeks Before Moving The eight-week mark is your launch point. Starting early gives you time to compare options, set a realistic budget, and avoid the frantic scramble that comes with a compressed timeline. Here's what to tackle first. ### Research and Book Moving Companies Get quotes from at least three licensed moving companies. According to [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/average-cost-of-moving/), the average cost of a local move is around $1,715, while a long-distance move averages $4,792 β€” but prices vary widely based on distance, weight, and timing. Ask about insurance coverage, cancellation policies, and whether the quote is binding or non-binding. If you're planning a DIY move, compare truck rental rates from companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget. Reserve early, especially if you're moving during the busy summer months when [roughly 60% of all residential moves take place](https://www.moving.org/). ### Create a Moving Budget A detailed budget prevents unpleasant surprises. Account for: - **Moving company or truck rental fees** - **Packing supplies** (boxes, tape, bubble wrap) - **Insurance and valuation coverage** - **Travel costs** (gas, flights, hotels for long-distance moves) - **Storage unit fees** (if needed) - **Cleaning and repair costs** for your current home - **Deposits** for your new home's utilities If your move is connected to a home sale, factor in [the cost of selling a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-a-house), including agent commissions, closing costs, and any repairs. On the buying side, review [how much it costs to buy a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-house) so you have a full financial picture. ### Begin Decluttering and Donating Moving is the perfect reason to downsize. Walk through every room and sort items into four categories: **keep, donate, sell, and discard.** The less you move, the less you spend β€” and the less you'll need to unpack on the other side. Host a garage sale, list items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, and schedule donation pickups with organizations like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. For large furniture you don't plan to keep, many charities offer free pickup. ### Start a Moving Binder or Digital Folder Create a central hub for all your moving-related information. This can be a physical three-ring binder or a shared digital folder (Google Drive works well for families). Include: - Moving company quotes and contracts - Inventory of valuable items with photos - Important receipts - Copies of lease agreements or closing documents - A master to-do list organized by week ### Notify Your Landlord or List Your Home If you're renting, check your lease agreement for the required notice period β€” most require 30 to 60 days. Submit your written notice as soon as you have a confirmed move date. If you own your home and haven't listed it yet, now is the time to start [preparing your house for sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-sale). Not sure whether to list traditionally or explore alternatives? Compare [how selling to Opendoor stacks up against a traditional home sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-selling-to-opendoor-compares-to-a-traditional-home-sale) to see which path fits your timeline better. ## 6 Weeks Before Moving With the big decisions made, shift your focus to logistics, paperwork, and early packing. ### Sort and Start Packing Non-Essentials Begin with items you won't need in the next six weeks: off-season clothing, books, decorative items, holiday supplies, and guest room linens. Pack one room at a time to stay organized, and label each box with its contents and destination room. **Pro tip:** Use color-coded stickers or markers β€” one color per room β€” so movers (or helpful friends) know exactly where each box belongs. ### Gather Packing Supplies Stock up early so you're not scrambling later: - **Boxes** in small, medium, and large sizes - **Wardrobe boxes** for hanging clothes - **Packing tape and a tape gun** - **Bubble wrap and packing paper** - **Permanent markers** for labeling - **Furniture pads and stretch wrap** Save money by checking local buy-nothing groups, liquor stores, and grocery stores for free boxes. Many moving companies also sell bundled packing kits. ### Arrange School and Medical Record Transfers If you have children, contact their current school to begin the transfer process. Request copies of transcripts, immunization records, and any special education plans. Research and register at schools in your new area β€” enrollment deadlines vary by district. For the whole family, ask your doctors, dentists, veterinarians, and specialists to forward records to new providers. Request hard copies of critical medical files as a backup. ### Begin Updating Your Address Start the address change process early because some institutions take weeks to process: - **USPS mail forwarding** β€” Submit a [change of address online](https://moversguide.usps.com/) or at your local post office - **Banks and credit card companies** - **Insurance providers** (health, auto, home/renters) - **Subscription services** (streaming, magazines, meal kits) ## 4 Weeks Before Moving One month out β€” momentum matters now. This is the phase where the move starts to feel real. ### Confirm Moving Company or Truck Rental Call your moving company (or rental truck provider) to reconfirm dates, arrival times, and any special instructions. Double-check that your quote still reflects the correct inventory. If you've decluttered significantly since your initial estimate, you may be able to negotiate a lower rate. ### Start Packing Room by Room Tackle one room per day or every other day to avoid burnout. Pack in this general order: 1. **Storage areas** (attic, basement, garage) 2. **Guest rooms and offices** 3. **Living room and dining room** 4. **Kids' rooms** 5. **Master bedroom** 6. **Kitchen** (save this for last β€” you'll need it longest) Number your boxes sequentially and keep a running inventory list in your moving binder. This makes it easy to confirm everything arrived and simplifies any insurance claims. ### Schedule Utility Transfers and Cancellations Contact each utility provider to arrange disconnection at your old address and activation at your new one. Plan for overlap β€” you don't want to arrive at a house with no electricity. - **Electricity and gas** - **Water and sewer** - **Internet and cable** - **Trash and recycling** - **Home security system** If you're buying a new home, your [possession date](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/buyer-possession-date) determines when utilities need to be active. Confirm this date with your agent or the title company. ### Notify Important Parties of Address Change Go beyond USPS forwarding and update your address directly with: - **Your employer's HR department** - **The IRS** (via [Form 8822](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8822)) - **Your voter registration office** - **Your children's schools and extracurricular programs** - **Your pharmacy** - **Any attorneys, accountants, or financial advisors** ## 2 Weeks Before Moving Two weeks out. The boxes are piling up. Stay focused on these final prep tasks. ### Confirm Travel and Accommodation Plans (for Long-Distance Moves) If your move involves a road trip or flights, finalize reservations now. Book hotels along your driving route if it's a multi-day drive. Arrange pet transport or boarding if needed, and confirm that your new home will be accessible on arrival day. ### Prepare Appliances for Transport If you're taking large appliances, they need special prep: - **Refrigerator:** Defrost at least 24 hours before the move. Clean interior and secure doors with bungee cords or tape. - **Washer and dryer:** Disconnect hoses, drain water, and secure the drum with transit bolts (check your owner's manual). - **Dishwasher:** Run an empty cycle, disconnect, and leave the door cracked to prevent mold. ### Create a Moving Day Plan Write out a clear plan for moving day and share it with everyone involved. Include: - What time the movers arrive - Parking and access instructions for the moving truck - Which items are loaded first and last - Who's handling kids, pets, and meals - Emergency contact numbers ### Begin Using Up Perishable Food Stop buying groceries in bulk. Plan meals around what's already in your fridge, freezer, and pantry. The goal is to arrive at moving day with as few perishable items as possible. Donate unopened non-perishables to a local food bank. ## 1 Week Before Moving The final stretch. Most of your home should be packed by now. This week is about finishing touches and making sure nothing falls through the cracks. ### Pack Your Moving Day Essentials Box This is the most important box you'll pack β€” a personal essentials kit that stays with you (not on the truck). Include: - **Medications and first-aid supplies** - **Phone chargers and a portable battery pack** - **Toiletries and a change of clothes for each family member** - **Important documents** (IDs, passports, lease/closing paperwork, moving contracts) - **Snacks and water bottles** - **Toilet paper and paper towels** - **Basic tools** (screwdriver, pliers, box cutter, hammer) - **Trash bags and cleaning spray** - **Pet food and supplies** (if applicable) - **Valuables** (jewelry, external hard drives, irreplaceable photos) ### Finish Packing and Label All Boxes Complete the final rooms β€” kitchen and bathrooms are usually last. Verify that every box is sealed, labeled with its contents and destination room, and that fragile items are clearly marked on all sides. ### Confirm Logistics with Movers Call your moving company one final time. Confirm: - Arrival time and estimated loading duration - Address and access details for both locations - Payment method and any remaining balance due - Contact number for the crew lead ### Clean Your Current Home Whether you're getting a security deposit back or leaving a good impression for the buyer, a clean home matters. Focus on: - Kitchens and bathrooms (deep clean) - Baseboards and windowsills - Inside cabinets and closets - Vacuuming and mopping all floors - Wiping down appliances If you're [selling your house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-sell-your-house), a clean, well-maintained home signals to buyers and inspectors that the property has been cared for. Review this list of [things to repair before selling](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/things-to-repair-before-selling-a-house) to make sure nothing is overlooked. ### Take Photos of Your Empty Home Document the condition of every room, closet, and surface after cleaning. Take date-stamped photos or a video walkthrough. This protects you in deposit disputes (renters) or post-closing disagreements (sellers). Store copies in your moving binder. ## Moving Day Checklist Today's the day. Deep breaths. With a solid plan and your essentials box in hand, you've got this. ### Do a Final Walkthrough of Your Old Home Before the movers finish loading, walk through every room, closet, cabinet, and outdoor area. Check: - **Attic, basement, and garage** β€” easy to forget items stored up high or in back corners - **Built-in shelves and medicine cabinets** - **Outdoor spaces** β€” patio furniture, garden tools, hoses - **Mailbox** β€” grab any remaining mail - **All windows and doors are locked** - **Thermostat is set appropriately** (not off β€” pipes can freeze or mold can grow) ### Supervise Loading and Check Inventory Stay present while the moving crew loads. Use your numbered box inventory to check off each item as it goes on the truck. Point out fragile or high-value items and make sure they're positioned safely. Note any existing damage on furniture before loading so you can distinguish it from transit damage later. ### Hand Off Keys and Collect Documentation Return all keys, garage remotes, gate codes, and access cards to the appropriate party β€” your landlord, property manager, real estate agent, or buyer. Get a signed receipt if possible. If you're wrapping up a home sale, your agent or [closing process](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/house-closing-process-for-seller) coordinator will handle the formal transfer. Make sure you have copies of all closing documents before you leave. ### Moving Day Essentials to Keep With You Your essentials box (packed earlier) should ride with you in your personal vehicle, not on the moving truck. You'll also want: - **Your moving day plan** printed or on your phone - **Cash for tips** β€” [the general guideline](https://www.moving.org/tips/how-much-to-tip-movers/) is $5–$10 per mover per hour for a local move - **Snacks, water, and a cooler** for the drive - **A fully charged phone** with mover and utility contact numbers saved ## Post-Move Checklist: Your First Week in Your New Home You're in. The truck is unloaded. The hardest part is behind you β€” but a few critical tasks remain to make your new house feel like home. ### Do a Safety Check (Smoke Detectors, Locks, Water Shutoff) Before you settle in, walk through the house and: - **Test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector.** Replace batteries or entire units if they're outdated. - **Locate the circuit breaker, water shutoff valve, and gas shutoff.** Label them clearly. - **Change the locks or rekey them** β€” you don't know how many copies of the old keys are floating around. - **Check all windows and doors for secure locks.** If you recently purchased the home, reviewing [what home inspectors look for](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/briefs/what-do-home-inspectors-look-for) can help you identify anything that may have been missed. ### Unpack Essentials First Resist the urge to unpack everything at once. Prioritize in this order: 1. **Kitchen essentials** β€” coffee maker, a few dishes, utensils, and a pan 2. **Bedding** β€” sheets, pillows, and blankets so everyone sleeps comfortably tonight 3. **Bathroom basics** β€” towels, toiletries, shower curtain 4. **Kids' and pets' items** β€” familiar toys and bedding help them adjust faster Work room by room over the next several days. Break down boxes as you go to keep the space manageable. ### Update Your Driver's License and Voter Registration Most states require you to update your driver's license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Visit your new state's DMV website to check deadlines, required documents, and whether appointments are needed. Update your voter registration through [Vote.org](https://www.vote.org/register-to-vote/) or your state's Secretary of State website. If you've moved across state lines, you'll typically need to re-register. ### Meet Your Neighbors It sounds old-fashioned, but introducing yourself to the people next door goes a long way. Neighbors can share practical insights β€” trash pickup schedules, reliable local contractors, the best pizza spot, HOA norms β€” and a friendly relationship makes daily life more enjoyable. ### Schedule Any Needed Home Repairs or Maintenance Even move-in-ready homes benefit from a maintenance sweep in the first week: - **HVAC filter replacement and system check** - **Gutter cleaning** (especially if you moved in fall or spring) - **Pest inspection** - **Landscape assessment** β€” sprinkler system, tree trimming, fence condition If you're thinking about upgrades that build equity, review which [home improvements actually increase home value](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/improvements-that-increase-home-value) before spending on renovations. ## Moving Tips for Every Situation No two moves are identical. Here are targeted tips for common scenarios. ### Tips for Moving With Kids - **Involve them early.** Let kids pack a special box with their favorite toys, books, and comfort items. - **Keep routines consistent.** Meal times, bedtimes, and screen time limits should stay the same during the transition. - **Visit the new neighborhood beforehand** if possible. Walk by their new school, find the nearest park, and let them pick out something for their new room. - **Arrange childcare on moving day.** Kids are safer and happier away from the heavy lifting and chaos. ### Tips for Moving With Pets - **Update tags and microchip information** with your new address and phone number before the move. - **Keep pets in a quiet, closed room** on moving day, away from open doors and foot traffic. - **Transport pets in your personal vehicle**, not the moving truck. - **Set up a familiar space immediately** at the new home β€” their bed, water bowl, and a few toys in one room. - **Stick to their feeding and walking schedule** to minimize anxiety. ### Tips for Long-Distance Moves - **Verify your moving company's license** for interstate transport using the [FMCSA's database](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move). - **Ship your car** if driving isn't practical β€” get quotes from at least three auto transport companies. - **Pack a road-trip kit** with maps, chargers, snacks, and an overnight bag in case of delays. - **Research your new area's cost of living, tax rates, and registration requirements** ahead of arrival. - If you're selling a home to fund a long-distance move, explore whether a [cash offer](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/what-is-a-cash-offer-in-real-estate-and-why-consider-it) could simplify your timeline and reduce uncertainty. ### Tips for Moving on a Budget - **Move during the off-season** (October–April) when rates are lower. Even mid-month and mid-week dates tend to be cheaper than month-end weekends. - **Declutter aggressively** β€” fewer items means a smaller truck and fewer hours of labor. - **Use free boxes** from local stores, community groups, or friends who recently moved. - **Skip the full-service movers** if you're physically able. Renting a truck and recruiting friends with pizza and drinks can save hundreds. - **Deduct eligible expenses** β€” if you're moving for work, check whether your employer offers relocation reimbursement. ## What to Do Before Moving: A Quick-Reference Summary If you only have five minutes, here's the entire moving checklist timeline condensed into one scannable table. | **Timeframe** | **Key Tasks** | | **8 weeks before** | Get mover quotes, set budget, start decluttering, create moving binder, notify landlord or list home | | **6 weeks before** | Pack non-essentials, gather supplies, transfer school/medical records, start address changes | | **4 weeks before** | Confirm movers, pack room by room, schedule utility transfers, notify employer and financial institutions | | **2 weeks before** | Book travel, prep appliances, create moving day plan, use up perishable food | | **1 week before** | Pack essentials box, finish packing, confirm logistics, clean old home, photograph everything | | **Moving day** | Final walkthrough, supervise loading, hand off keys, keep essentials with you | | **First week in new home** | Safety check, unpack essentials, update license and voter registration, meet neighbors, schedule maintenance | ## Frequently Asked Questions About Moving ### How far in advance should I start planning a move? Ideally, start eight weeks before your move date. This gives you enough time to research movers, compare quotes, declutter, and pack without feeling rushed. If you're moving long-distance or during peak summer months, starting 10 to 12 weeks out is even better. ### What is the most forgotten thing when moving? Items stored in unusual places top the list: attic boxes, cleaning supplies under sinks, things inside the washer or dryer, garage wall hooks, and items in outdoor sheds. Valuables hidden in safes or tucked behind closet shelves are also commonly left behind. A final walkthrough with a room-by-room checklist prevents most of these oversights. ### What should I do the night before moving day? Charge all your devices, set out clothes and toiletries for the morning, finalize your essentials box, do one last fridge cleanout, and confirm the arrival time with your movers. Get to bed early β€” moving day is physically demanding, and you'll want the energy. ### How do I organize a move in 2 weeks? It's tight but doable. Prioritize ruthlessly: book movers or a rental truck immediately, declutter by donating anything you haven't used in a year, and pack aggressively β€” aim for three to five boxes per day. Forward your mail, transfer utilities, and pack an essentials box first so it's ready no matter what. ### What is the cheapest month to move? Moving rates are generally lowest between October and April, when demand drops. Within any month, mid-week moves (Tuesday through Thursday) and mid-month dates tend to be cheaper than weekends and month-end. If your timeline is flexible, you can find meaningful savings. For insights on timing a concurrent home sale, see our guide on the [best time to sell a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/best-time-to-sell-a-house). ### Should I hire movers or do it myself? It depends on your budget, physical ability, and the complexity of your move. Professional movers are worth the investment for long-distance moves, homes with heavy furniture or stairs, and anyone on a tight timeline. A DIY truck rental works well for smaller, local moves where you have willing helpers. Get quotes for both options before deciding. ### How do I move if I'm also selling my home? Coordinating a sale and a move simultaneously takes extra planning. The ideal sequence: list your home, negotiate a closing date that aligns with your move, and arrange a [possession date](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/buyer-possession-date) that gives you a buffer. If you need to sell quickly to fund your next home, requesting a [cash offer from Opendoor](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/sell-your-house-for-fast-cash-with-Opendoor) can simplify the timeline β€” you choose your closing date and skip the showings, staging, and uncertainty of a traditional sale. ### How much should I tip my movers? A common guideline is $5 to $10 per mover per hour for a local move, or $20 to $50 per mover for a full-day or long-distance move. Tip based on effort β€” stairs, heavy items, and extreme temperatures warrant more. Provide water, snacks, and a genuine thank-you regardless of tip amount. ### What documents should I keep with me on moving day? Carry identification (driver's license, passport), your moving contract and inventory list, closing documents or lease agreement, medical records, insurance policies, birth certificates, and any irreplaceable personal documents. These should never go on the moving truck. [Get your offer](#) ## Make Your Move Easier With Opendoor Moving is one of life's biggest logistical challenges β€” but selling your home doesn't have to add to the stress. With Opendoor, you can get a competitive cash offer on your home, choose your own closing date, and skip the months of showings and uncertainty that come with a traditional listing. Whether you're [figuring out how to sell your house fast](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-sell-your-house-fast-complete-guide) or wondering [what your home is worth](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/whats-your-home-worth-take-these-steps-to-find-out), Opendoor makes it simple to align your sale with your moving timeline β€” so you can focus on settling into your next chapter. **\[Request your free, no-obligation offer from Opendoor today β†’\](https://www.opendoor.com/)** --- *Originally published at [https://www.opendoor.com/articles/moving-guide-checklist](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/moving-guide-checklist)*