15 Must-Know Moving to a New Home Reminders You Can’t Miss! 🏠 (2025)

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Moving to a new home can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle—exciting but easy to drop the ball. Did you know that nearly half of all moves happen between May and Labor Day, making this the busiest and most chaotic moving season? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned mover, forgetting just one critical task can turn your dream move into a logistical nightmare.

We’ve been in the trenches at Moving Checklist™ and have compiled the ultimate list of 15 essential reminders to keep you sane and your move smooth. From scheduling utilities to packing fragile items like a pro, and even handling unexpected surprises on moving day, this guide covers every detail you might overlook. Stick around for insider tips that professional movers swear by and discover how the right checklist app can be your secret weapon against moving madness.

Key Takeaways

  • Start early and stay organized by using a comprehensive moving checklist tailored to your needs.
  • Notify utilities and update your address well in advance to avoid service interruptions.
  • Pack smart and label boxes clearly to save time and reduce stress on moving day.
  • Prepare an essentials box with everything you’ll need immediately after arrival.
  • Choose your moving company wisely by vetting credentials and reading reviews.
  • Don’t forget legal and financial updates like driver’s license changes and insurance adjustments.
  • Leverage technology with apps like Moving Checklist™ to keep all your tasks and reminders in one place.

Ready to transform your move from chaos to celebration? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

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⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts for Moving to a New Home

Welcome to the controlled chaos of moving! We’re the team at Moving Checklist™, and we’ve seen it all: the triumphs, the tears, and the toaster that somehow ended up in the bathroom box. Before we dive deep into the ultimate checklist, let’s get you warmed up with some rapid-fire wisdom. Think of this as the espresso shot you need before running the marathon that is moving day.

One of the first things people ask us is, “Where do I even start?” Our best advice is to grab a comprehensive guide on what to remember to do when moving? and make it your bible.

Here are some eye-opening stats to put your move into perspective:

Moving Fact 📊 The Nitty-Gritty Details
Busiest Moving Season Nearly half of all moves happen between the beginning of May and Labor Day.
Average Box Count The average person uses about 60 moving boxes for a move. Yes, sixty!
American Mobility On average, a person in the United States will move 11.7 times in their lifetime.
Top Reason to Move The most common reason people move is for a new or better home, followed by family and job-related reasons.

Your “Don’t You Dare Forget” Quick List:

  • ✅ Measure everything! That beautiful sectional sofa won’t be so beautiful if it’s stuck in your new doorway.
  • ✅ Book movers or a truck EARLY. Especially during peak season, waiting is a recipe for disaster.
  • ✅ Pack a “Day One” survival kit. Think coffee maker, toilet paper, phone chargers, medications, and a bottle of wine. You’ll thank us later.
  • ✅ Change your address with the USPS at least two weeks before you move. You can do it online here.
  • ✅ Label boxes on the top AND sides. This is a game-changer when they’re stacked to the ceiling.

🏠 The Ultimate Guide to Moving Reminders: Why They Matter

Let me tell you a story. We once got a frantic call from a client—let’s call him Dave—on the evening of his move. He was whispering because his family was asleep on a pile of coats on the floor. Why? He forgot to remind himself to call the power company. No lights, no heat, no Wi-Fi. Dave learned the hard way that moving isn’t just about lifting heavy things; it’s a logistical masterpiece, and reminders are the sheet music.

Without a solid plan, your move can quickly devolve from a smooth transition into a chaotic scramble. A proper Moving Day Checklist is your roadmap, your co-pilot, and your sanity-saver all rolled into one. It transforms a mountain of tasks into a series of manageable molehills.

Moving is also deeply emotional. As author and speaker Mel Robbins shared about her own experience, “I was so emotional about leaving my house.” It’s an ending and a beginning all at once. Acknowledging these feelings is crucial, but you can’t let them derail the practical tasks at hand. That’s where reminders come in—they handle the “what” so you can process the “how you feel.”

📅 15 Essential Moving to a New Home Reminders Checklist

Alright, let’s get down to business. Here is the master list of reminders, honed by years of experience and countless boxes.

1. Notify Utilities and Services

This is non-negotiable. You want the lights on when you arrive, right?

  • Schedule Disconnection: Call your current providers (gas, electric, water, sewer, trash, internet, and cable) to schedule a service disconnection for the day after you move out.
  • Schedule Connection: Contact the utility providers in your new area to schedule service activation for the day before you move in. Trust us on this one.
  • Don’t Forget:
    • Natural Gas/Propane
    • Electricity
    • Water & Sewer
    • Trash & Recycling
    • Internet (e.g., Xfinity, AT&T Fiber)
    • Home Security (e.g., ADT, SimpliSafe)

2. Change Your Address Everywhere

The USPS mail forwarding service is a great start, but it’s temporary. You need to update your address directly with these key places:

  • Financial: Banks, credit card companies, loan providers, investment firms.
  • Government: IRS, DMV/BMV, Social Security Administration, Voter Registration.
  • Insurance: Health, auto, life, and renter’s/homeowner’s policies.
  • Shopping & Subscriptions: Amazon, Netflix, magazine subscriptions, and any subscription boxes.
  • People: Friends, family, and your employer.

This is a core part of your Moving Essentials.

3. Schedule Moving Company or Truck Rental

Are you hiring pros or going the DIY route? Decide early.

  • Full-Service Movers: Companies like Two Men and a Truck or Allied Van Lines will do the heavy lifting. Get at least three in-home estimates.
  • DIY Truck Rental: Renting a truck from U-Haul or Penske can save money but requires more sweat equity. Remember to reserve the right size truck!
  • Hybrid Approach: Consider hiring labor-only services like Moving Help (powered by U-Haul) or TaskRabbit to load and unload your rental truck.

4. Pack Smart: Labeling and Organizing Tips

A well-packed box is a thing of beauty. An unlabeled box is a mystery that you’ll be too tired to solve.

  • The Golden Rule: Label each box with its destination room (e.g., “Kitchen,” “Main Bedroom”) and a brief summary of its contents (“Pots and Pans,” “Sweaters”).
  • Color-Code It: Assign a different color of duct tape or sticker to each room. Slap the corresponding color on the box and the door frame of the new room. It’s a visual shortcut that movers love.
  • Number Your Boxes: Keep a simple notebook or a spreadsheet. Box #1 (Kitchen – Silverware), Box #2 (Kitchen – Glasses), etc. This helps you quickly identify if anything is missing.

👉 Shop Packing Supplies on:

5. Prepare an Essentials Box

We call this the “Open Me First” box. This box travels with you, not in the moving truck. It should contain everything you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours.

  • Must-Haves: Medications, toiletries, a change of clothes for everyone, phone chargers, toilet paper, paper towels, basic tools (box cutter, screwdriver, hammer), snacks, and bottled water.
  • Creature Comforts: Coffee maker and coffee, pet food and bowls, a favorite toy for the kids.

6. Clean Old and New Home

Nobody wants to move into someone else’s grime, and you’ll likely need to clean your old place to get your security deposit back.

  • DIY Cleaning: Stock up on supplies and plan for a full day of scrubbing after the truck is loaded.
  • Hire a Pro: Services like Merry Maids or local cleaners found on Thumbtack can do a deep “move-in/move-out” clean, saving you time and energy.

7. Confirm Moving Day Details

Never assume. Always confirm.

  • A week before: Call your moving company to confirm the date, time, and addresses.
  • The day before: Re-confirm everything. Ask for the driver’s contact number.
  • Check the weather forecast. Have a plan for rain or extreme heat.

8. Secure Important Documents

These should be in a specific, secure folder or box that, like your essentials box, travels with you.

  • Gather: Passports, birth certificates, social security cards, vehicle titles, insurance policies, and recent tax records.
  • Digitize: It’s a great idea to have digital copies saved to a secure cloud service like Dropbox or Google Drive as a backup.

9. Update Insurance Policies

Your insurance needs will change with your address.

  • Homeowner’s/Renter’s Insurance: Your current policy won’t cover your new home. Arrange for a new policy to start on your move-in date.
  • Auto Insurance: Your rates could change based on your new zip code. Notify your provider of your new garaging address.

10. Arrange for Child and Pet Care

Moving day is stressful and potentially dangerous for little ones and furry friends. An open door and busy people are a recipe for an escape.

  • Plan Ahead: Arrange for a family member, friend, or a service like Care.com or Rover.com to watch your kids and/or pets for the day.
  • If They Must Be There: Designate one room (with the door closed) as the “kid zone” or “pet zone” with toys, water, and everything they need.

11. Check Local Regulations and Permits

Don’t get hit with a fine on moving day.

  • Parking: Does your new (or old) street require a parking permit for a large moving truck? Check your city’s website.
  • Elevators: If you’re moving into an apartment or condo, you may need to reserve a service elevator. Check with your building management or HOA.

12. Inventory Your Belongings

This is your proof of what you own and its condition before the move. It’s invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim.

  • Simple Method: A spreadsheet listing major items and their general condition.
  • Photo/Video Method: Walk through your home and take a video of your belongings, narrating what you’re seeing. Pay special attention to high-value items.
  • App Method: Apps like Sortly are designed specifically for home inventory.

13. Plan Your New Home Setup

Knowing where the big stuff goes will make unpacking a breeze.

  • Create a Floor Plan: Use a simple app or just sketch it out on paper. Decide where the sofa, beds, and other large furniture will go.
  • Label the Rooms: Tape signs on the doors of your new home so movers know exactly where the “Office” or “Guest Room” is. This is a key step in Home Organization.

14. Dispose of Hazardous Materials Properly

Moving companies are legally prohibited from transporting hazardous materials.

  • What They Won’t Take: Paint, propane tanks, firearms, pesticides, cleaning supplies, and aerosols.
  • How to Dispose: Use a resource like Earth911 to find local disposal sites for these items.

15. Say Goodbye and Celebrate!

Amidst the chaos, take a moment.

  • Farewell Ritual: Do one last walkthrough of your empty old home. Share a favorite memory in each room.
  • First Night Celebration: It doesn’t have to be fancy. Order a pizza, sit on the floor of your new living room, and toast to your new beginning. You did it!

🛠️ Must-Have Moving Tools and Apps to Keep You on Track

In the 21st century, your smartphone is as crucial as a roll of packing tape. Let’s talk tech and tools.

Moving and Organization Apps

  • Moving Checklist™: Okay, we’re biased, but our Move Hassle-Free with Checklist App is designed by movers, for movers (and the people who hire them!). It keeps all your tasks, timelines, and reminders in one place.
  • Trello: This project management tool is fantastic for creating visual moving checklists. You can create cards for tasks and drag them from “To Do” to “Done.”
  • Built-in Reminders: While native apps like Apple Reminders can be a starting point, users often find they lack the robust features needed for a complex move. Frustrations with simple functions, like the inability to easily sort new reminders to the top of a long list, can make them cumbersome.

Essential Physical Tools

This isn’t the time for improvisation. Having the right tools makes every task easier and safer.

Tool 🛠️ Why You Need It
Tape Gun A quality tape gun will save your hands and your sanity.
Box Cutter For opening boxes without a struggle. Get one with a retractable blade.
Furniture Dolly An absolute must for moving heavy dressers, appliances, and stacks of boxes.
Furniture Sliders Place these under heavy furniture legs to easily slide them across carpet or hardwood.
Basic Toolkit You’ll need screwdrivers and wrenches for disassembling and reassembling furniture.

👉 Shop Moving Tools on:

💡 Insider Tips from Professional Movers: Avoid These Common Pitfalls

We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you sidestep the most common moving landmines.

  • Pitfall #1: The Great Underestimation.
    • The Mistake: Thinking you can pack up your three-bedroom house in a single weekend.
    • The Pro Tip: Start packing non-essential items (books, seasonal decor, guest room linens) at least 3-4 weeks before your move date. A good rule of thumb is to dedicate one full day of packing per room.
  • Pitfall #2: Paying to Move Your Junk.
    • The Mistake: Packing every single thing you own, including the broken lamp and the clothes you haven’t worn since 2012.
    • The Pro Tip: Purge ruthlessly! Before you pack a single box, declutter. Have three piles: Keep, Donate/Sell, and Trash. Take donations to Goodwill or schedule a pickup with a service like 1-800-GOT-JUNK?. This is one of our top DIY Moving Tips.
  • Pitfall #3: The “It Won’t Fit” Fiasco.
    • The Mistake: Assuming your furniture will fit through the doorways and stairwells of your new home.
    • The Pro Tip: Measure twice, move once! Measure your largest pieces of furniture and then measure the doorways, hallways, and stairwells at your new place. There’s nothing more heartbreaking than a sofa that can’t make the turn.
  • Pitfall #4: The Back-Breaker Box.
    • The Mistake: Filling a giant box with books. We see this all the time. It’s physically impossible to lift safely.
    • The Pro Tip: Pack heavy items (books, records, canned goods) in small boxes. Pack light items (pillows, linens, lampshades) in large boxes. Your back will thank you.

📦 How to Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro: Expert Reminders

Your delicate items need some extra TLC. Here’s how to ensure they arrive in one piece.

  • Plates: Never pack them flat! Wrap each plate in packing paper and stand them on their edge inside the box. They’re much stronger this way. Use a “Dish Pack” box, which has thicker cardboard.
  • Glasses: Use cell divider inserts inside your boxes. Stuff each glass with crumpled packing paper before wrapping it on the outside.
  • Lamps: Separate the harp and the lampshade from the base. Pack the base in one box (wrapped in bubble wrap) and the lampshade by itself in another box, as it can be easily crushed.
  • Mirrors & Artwork: Use a dedicated picture/mirror box. If you don’t have one, wrap the item in bubble wrap and place it between two pieces of flattened cardboard taped securely around the edges. Always transport and store these items on their edge, never flat.

🚚 Choosing the Right Moving Company: What to Remember

Hiring movers can be the best decision you make, but choosing the wrong company can be a nightmare. Here’s your vetting checklist.

  • ✅ DO get multiple in-person or video estimates. A quote given over the phone without seeing your stuff is a red flag.
  • ✅ DO check their credentials. Interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check their license and complaint history on the FMCSA website.
  • ✅ DO read recent reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for patterns in the comments.
  • ❌ DON’T choose based on the lowest price alone. Scammers often lure customers with unbelievably low quotes and then hold their belongings hostage for more money.
  • ❌ DON’T sign a blank or incomplete contract. Read everything before you sign. Understand the valuation coverage (insurance) they offer.
  • ❌ DON’T pay a large up-front deposit. Reputable movers typically don’t require a deposit, or if they do, it’s a small one. Payment is usually rendered upon delivery.

This is especially critical for Long Distance Moves, where you have less oversight.

📞 Important Contacts to Update When Moving

This is more than just mail forwarding. Create a master list and check them off as you notify them of your move.

Category Who to Notify
Government IRS (via Form 8822), Social Security Administration, DMV, State Tax Agency, Voter Registration
Financial Banks, Credit Unions, Credit Card Companies, Loan Providers (Auto, Student), Financial Advisors
Insurance Health, Dental, Vision, Auto, Home/Renter’s, Life Insurance Providers
Utilities Gas, Electric, Water, Sewer, Trash, Internet, Cable, Phone, Home Security
Health Doctor, Dentist, Optometrist, Specialists, Veterinarian, Pharmacy
Subscriptions Magazines, Newspapers, Streaming Services (for local channels), Subscription Boxes, Gym Membership
Personal Employer (for payroll), Schools/Daycare, Friends & Family, Loyalty Programs

🏡 Settling Into Your New Home: Post-Move Reminders

You’ve arrived! But the work isn’t quite over. The first week is all about setting up your foundation.

  • First 24 Hours:
    • Do a walkthrough and check for any damage that may have occurred during the move.
    • Assemble all the beds first. A good night’s sleep is paramount.
    • Unpack your “Essentials Box.”
    • Plug in the refrigerator.
    • Order takeout. You’ve earned it.
  • First Few Days:
    • Set up the kitchen. Being able to make your own coffee is a huge step toward normalcy.
    • Connect the washer and dryer.
    • Change the locks on all exterior doors. You never know who has a key.
  • First Week:
    • Locate the circuit breaker box and the main water shutoff valve.
    • Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
    • Start unpacking, one room at a time. Don’t try to do it all at once.
    • Go for a walk and introduce yourself to your new neighbors!

🔄 Handling Unexpected Moving Day Surprises: Quick Fixes

Even with perfect planning, things can go sideways. Here’s how to roll with the punches.

  • The Surprise: The moving truck is much later than expected.
    • The Fix: This is why you confirmed and got the driver’s number! Call for an ETA. Use the waiting time to do a final clean or pack your personal vehicle. And remember your essentials box? It’s your best friend right now.
  • The Surprise: An item was damaged during the move.
    • The Fix: Don’t panic. Document the damage with photos immediately. Find your moving contract and review the claims process. You typically have a limited time to file a claim, so don’t delay.
  • The Surprise: A sudden downpour starts.
    • The Fix: Have old towels and tarps ready. Cover doorways and high-traffic floor areas with plastic sheeting or Ram Board to protect them from water and mud.

Moving has important legal and financial implications, especially if you’re crossing state lines.

  • Legal To-Do’s:
    • Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration: Most states require you to update these within 30 to 60 days of moving. Check your new state’s DMV website for the exact requirements.
    • Wills & Estate Planning: Laws can vary by state. It’s a good idea to have your will and other estate planning documents reviewed by an attorney in your new state.
  • Financial To-Do’s:
    • Taxes: If you moved to a new state, you’ll likely have to file part-year resident tax returns in both states. Inform your employer’s HR department of your move immediately for payroll tax purposes.
    • Budgeting: Your cost of living may have changed significantly. Update your budget to reflect your new mortgage/rent, utility costs, property taxes, and transportation expenses.

🌍 Eco-Friendly Moving Reminders: Green Moving Tips

Moving can generate a lot of waste. Here’s how to make your move a little kinder to the planet.

  • Ditch the Cardboard: Instead of buying hundreds of cardboard boxes, rent reusable plastic moving bins from a company like Frogbox or U-Haul’s Ready-To-Go Box program. They deliver them to your old home and pick them up from your new one.
  • Creative Packing Materials: Use what you already have! Wrap fragile items in towels, t-shirts, socks, and linens. They provide excellent padding and you have to move them anyway.
  • Avoid Styrofoam Peanuts: Opt for biodegradable packing peanuts or simply use crumpled packing paper.
  • Purge Responsibly: Sell items on Facebook Marketplace, give them away on a Buy Nothing group, or donate them. Avoid the landfill whenever possible.
  • Recycle on Both Ends: Have a clear plan for recycling packing materials at both your old and new homes. Break down all cardboard boxes and bundle them for recycling.

🎉 Conclusion: Your Stress-Free Moving Reminder Checklist

Phew! That was a whirlwind tour through the maze of moving reminders, wasn’t it? But here’s the good news: with the right preparation, a solid checklist, and a sprinkle of humor, moving to a new home doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Remember Dave, our client who forgot to call the power company? Well, with the comprehensive reminders and expert tips we’ve shared, you’ll be miles ahead of him—and probably enjoying your first night in your new place with the lights on and a glass of wine in hand.

Our Move Hassle-Free with Checklist App is your secret weapon to keep all these reminders organized, prioritized, and accessible wherever you go. It’s designed by movers who’ve lived the chaos and want to save you from it. While native apps like Apple Reminders have their charm, they often fall short in customization and sorting features, which can be frustrating when managing hundreds of tasks. Our app fills that gap with intuitive features tailored specifically for moving.

So, pack smart, plan early, and don’t forget to celebrate the new chapter ahead. After all, moving is more than just transporting stuff—it’s about embracing change, growth, and new memories. Ready to make your move the smoothest one yet? Let’s get started!

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Recommended Books on Moving:

  • The Art of Moving by Katie M. Brown — A practical and emotional guide to moving with grace.
    Amazon

  • Moving for Dummies by Marcia Layton Turner — A comprehensive handbook for every step of your move.
    Amazon

FAQ

What are the essential reminders for moving to a new home?

The essentials boil down to planning, communication, and organization. Notify utilities and services early, update your address everywhere (USPS, banks, insurance, subscriptions), schedule your movers or truck rental well in advance, and pack smart with clear labeling. Don’t forget to prepare an essentials box for your first day and secure important documents. Also, arrange for child and pet care on moving day to reduce stress. These steps ensure you won’t be left in the dark—literally or figuratively—when you arrive.

How can a checklist app help simplify the moving process?

A checklist app like Moving Checklist™ centralizes all your moving tasks, deadlines, and reminders in one place, accessible on your phone or tablet. Unlike generic reminder apps, it’s tailored for moving, offering pre-built templates, customizable lists, and priority sorting. It helps you avoid missed steps, reduces overwhelm, and keeps your entire household on the same page. Plus, having everything digital means you can update your progress in real-time and share your list with movers or family helpers.

What should I not forget when moving to a new home?

Some commonly forgotten but critical items include:

  • Confirming moving day details with your movers or rental company.
  • Measuring furniture and doorways to avoid “it won’t fit” disasters.
  • Disposing of hazardous materials properly, as movers won’t transport them.
  • Changing locks on your new home for security.
  • Updating your insurance policies to reflect your new address.
  • Checking for parking permits or elevator reservations if moving into an apartment.

Missing these can cause delays, added costs, or safety issues.

How do I stay organized during a home move using an app?

Start by inputting all your moving-related tasks into the app well before your move date. Break down big tasks into smaller steps, assign deadlines, and set reminders. Use features like color-coding or tagging to prioritize urgent items. Regularly update your progress and check off completed tasks to maintain momentum. Share your list with family members or movers to coordinate efforts. Apps like Moving Checklist™ also offer packing inventory features, so you know exactly what’s in each box, preventing lost or forgotten items.

How do I handle emotional stress during a move?

Moving is not just physical; it’s emotional. Acknowledge your feelings—whether excitement, sadness, or anxiety. Take breaks, practice self-care, and focus on the positive aspects of your new home and fresh start. Sharing your experience with friends or journaling can help. Remember Mel Robbins’ insight: embracing the change is part of the journey. Planning and reminders help reduce stress by giving you control over the chaos.

Ready to turn your moving day from a stress-fest into a success story? Bookmark this guide, download the Moving Checklist™ app, and let’s make your next move your best move! 🚚✨

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