🏡 The Ultimate Moving Away Checklist: 50+ Things to Do Before You Go!

Video: The BEST House Moving Tips (and Mistakes to Avoid)!







Moving away is a thrilling adventure, but it can also be a logistical rollercoaster. We’ve all been there—the last-minute scramble, the forgotten boxes, the overwhelming feeling of “what did I forget?!” We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide, offering over 50 actionable steps to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Think of it as your personal moving guru, guiding you from the initial planning stages to settling into your new home.

Imagine this: You’re finally unpacking in your new place, sipping a celebratory beverage (maybe a margarita?), and realizing you’ve tackled every step of the moving process with confidence. No frantic calls to movers, no forgotten bills, and no last-minute panic attacks. That’s the magic of a well-planned move, and that’s what this checklist is all about.

Key Takeaways

  • Start planning early: Begin at least eight weeks before your move to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Declutter and organize: Get rid of unwanted items and create a digital folder for moving documents.
  • Budget wisely: Set a moving budget and stick to it.
  • Research moving companies: Compare quotes and services from at least three companies.
  • Pack strategically: Pack an essentials box and label boxes clearly.
  • Notify utilities and services: Inform your providers and services about your move.

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Table of Contents


Quick Tips and Facts

Ready to embark on the grand adventure of moving away? 🚚 Here’s a quick rundown of essential tips to keep you on track:

  • Start early: Begin planning at least eight weeks before your move. Procrastination is the enemy of smooth transitions!
  • Declutter: Use this opportunity to Marie Kondo your life. If it doesn’t spark joy, it doesn’t need to move with you.
  • Digital Organization: Create a digital folder for all moving-related documents. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.
  • Budget Wisely: Set a moving budget and stick to it. Moving can be as unpredictable as a cat on a leash.
  • Label like a Pro: Label boxes by room and priority. Your future self will appreciate the organization.
  • Research Movers: Get estimates from at least three moving companies. Compare their services like you’re shopping for the perfect avocado.
  • Notify Utilities and Services: Don’t forget to inform your utility providers and other services about your move. No one likes surprises, especially in the form of unpaid bills.
  • Pack an Essentials Box: Keep a box with essentials like toiletries, snacks, and a change of clothes. It’s your survival kit for the first night.

For more detailed steps, check out our Moving Day Checklist.

Moving Checklist: The Ultimate Guide to Moving Away

Video: Moving Checklist & Timeline | What To Do Before You Move.







8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Create a digital folder for moving day: Start organizing all your moving documents in one place. Google Drive or Dropbox are excellent choices for backup. Imagine losing your moving contract—it’s like losing the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle.

Get an estimate from a moving company: Collect quotes from at least three companies. Compare their prices and services to find the best fit. Ensure they are licensed and insured using resources like FMCSA.

Set a moving budget: List down all potential expenses and allocate funds. If your employer offers relocation assistance, include that in your calculations. For more budgeting tips, visit Moving Budgeting.

Review moving company documents: Before signing anything, scrutinize all contracts and terms & conditions. You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, right?

Assess your new place: Check out logistics like parking, elevator access, and any specific moving requirements. It’s like scoping out a new restaurant before making a reservation.

Request time off from work: File for time off as early as possible. You don’t want to be juggling conference calls and cardboard boxes on moving day.

Find a school for your kids: Research schools in your new neighborhood. Use resources like Great Schools to compare options. Request transcripts from your child’s current school.

Declutter and get rid of unwanted items: Donate, sell, or discard items you won’t take with you. Less stuff, less stress!

Separate items for personal transport: Pack expensive, sensitive, or fragile items yourself. Remember, not even Hercules could save a dropped heirloom vase.

Communicate with your landlord: Give proper notice, settle any outstanding debts, and discuss moving details. You don’t want any loose ends waving goodbye as you drive off.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

Inform family and friends: Keep them updated about your move. Plan a farewell gathering to say goodbye.

Ask for help from friends and family: If you need assistance, ask them at least seven weeks in advance. People need time to pencil you into their busy lives!

Book a moving van: Research options and book early to avoid delays. Consider temporary storage if needed.

Collect free boxes: Look for free boxes from local businesses and restaurants. Eco-friendly options include sites like Used Cardboard Boxes.

Research packing hacks: Learn efficient packing techniques to save time, space, and money. YouTube is a treasure trove of tips.

Label boxes: Clearly label boxes by room and contents. Use color coding for easy identification and mark fragile items.

Create an inventory of items: Make a list of all belongings for easier tracking and to ensure nothing gets lost.

Take photos of electronics wiring: Document wiring setups for easier reassembly at the new place. Future you will be grateful!

Disassemble furniture: Start taking apart furniture you won’t need until after the move. Store hardware securely and take photos or videos for reassembly.

Make travel arrangements: Book flights, rental cars, and hotels in advance for peace of mind and cost savings. Ensure your car is serviced before a long trip.

Make minor home repairs: Assess and address minor repairs to ensure you get your security deposit back.

Measure your furniture: Check if furniture fits through doorways, stairs, and hallways. Ask for assistance if necessary.

Research your new community: Explore restaurants, parks, malls, and other key establishments in your new area.

Pack items daily: Start packing non-essential items regularly to avoid last-minute stress.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

Buy moving insurance: Protect your belongings by purchasing moving insurance for added peace of mind. It’s like a safety net for your stuff.

Get rid of perishable items: Schedule meals and use up perishable items in the pantry. Nobody wants to pack a melting ice cream tub.

Settle local memberships: Cancel or update memberships for clubs, organizations, or gyms.

Gather important records: Collect financial, legal, and medical records and store them securely.

Notify your insurance company: Inform them about your move and update your records.

Find an internet provider: Contact internet providers in your new area and schedule installation. You don’t want to be without Wi-Fi when you arrive.

Find new doctor, dentist, and vet: Research and select potential medical providers and veterinarians for your pets.

Plan your route: Plan your driving route using Google Maps and consider stopovers along the way.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

Create a folder for bills and receipts: Keep moving-related receipts and bills for potential tax deductions. It’s like finding a hidden treasure during tax season.

Dispose of hazardous materials: Safely dispose of flammable, corrosive, and poisonous items according to local regulations.

Notify service providers: Inform gardeners, housekeeping, and other service providers about your move.

Set up mail forwarding: Contact USPS to set up mail forwarding or consider opening a PO box.

Return borrowed items: Return any borrowed items to neighbors, family, or friends.

Find a babysitter: Arrange for childcare during unpacking and settling in.

Back up your computer: Back up all data to an external storage device or cloud before packing your computer.

Find new homes for plants: Repot or find new homes for plants you are not taking with you.

Remove light bulbs from lamps: Remove bulbs to avoid breakage during transportation. Pack them separately and securely.

Update your driver’s license: Update your address with the DMV.

Update your address on e-commerce platforms: Change your shipping address on platforms like Amazon.

Transfer prescriptions: Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new home.

The Week of Moving Day

Get rid of leftover food: Use up or discard any remaining food.

Clean your old home: Thoroughly clean your home before leaving to show respect for your landlord and future tenants.

Unplug the fridge: Unplug the refrigerator and allow it to defrost if necessary.

Cancel or redirect deliveries: Forward any pending deliveries to your new address.

Prepare for a final walkthrough: Ensure your old home is in good condition before the landlord’s inspection.

Check the weather: Monitor weather conditions and make necessary adjustments to your moving plans.

Withdraw cash: Have cash on hand for tips, unexpected expenses, or emergencies.

Clean your new place: Clean your new home before moving in if possible.

Moving Day Essentials

Protect your floors: Use floor coverings to prevent damage during the move.

Work with the movers: Answer questions, provide clear instructions, and give tips.

Unpack essentials: Prioritize unpacking your bed, toiletries, and other immediate necessities.

Say hello to neighbors: Introduce yourself to your new neighbors and build connections.

Go grocery shopping: Stock up on food and supplies for the first few days.

Put up curtains: Install curtains or shades for privacy and a sense of home.

Thank your real estate broker: Express appreciation for their help and your new home.

After Moving Day

Leave a review for the moving company: Share your experience to help others.

Clean your new home: Clean carpets and chimneys, and complete any necessary cleaning.

Unpack everything: Continue unpacking and place items in their designated locations. Donate or recycle used boxes.

Install a security system: Install a security system for added safety and peace of mind.

Explore your new neighborhood: Get to know your new community and explore local attractions.

Inform friends and family: Let them know you have arrived and express gratitude for their help.

Two Weeks After Moving Day

Finish unpacking: Complete unpacking all remaining boxes.

Make spare copies of keys: Make copies for babysitters, nannies, or dog walkers.

Schedule painters: Arrange for painting if needed or consider doing it yourself.

Take your pet to the vet: Schedule a vet visit to introduce your pet to the new veterinarian.

Update your bank accounts: Update your address with your bank.

Check your security deposit: Follow up with your old landlord about your security deposit.

Change your locks: Change locks on doors for added security.

Understand the trash pickup schedule: Familiarize yourself with the local trash and recycling schedule.

Check smoke alarms: Replace batteries and consider installing a carbon monoxide detector.

Schedule maintenance work: Have an electrician or other professionals check utilities for safety and maintenance.

For more moving tips and checklists, visit Moving Essentials.


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FAQ

woman near green leafed plants

How do I prepare myself for moving out?

Moving out is a significant step, and it’s essential to be prepared both mentally and practically.

Mental Preparation:

  • Embrace the Change: Moving is a chance to start fresh and create a new chapter in your life.
  • Visualize Your New Home: Imagine yourself in your new space and the exciting possibilities it holds.
  • Manage Expectations: Moving can be stressful, so be prepared for challenges and unexpected hurdles.
  • Stay Organized: Create a moving checklist to track your progress and stay on top of your tasks.

Practical Preparation:

  • Financial Planning: Create a realistic budget and ensure you have enough funds for rent, utilities, and other expenses.
  • Find a Place: Research potential neighborhoods and find a safe and affordable place to live.
  • Set Up Utilities: Contact utility providers for water, electricity, gas, and internet services.
  • Get Renters Insurance: Protect your belongings with renters insurance in case of damage or theft.

Read more about “Things to Do Before Moving Out for the First Time …”

What to pack 3 weeks before a move?

Three weeks before your move is a good time to start packing non-essential items. Here’s a list of things to pack:

  • Seasonal Clothing: Pack clothes for seasons you won’t need immediately, like winter coats in the summer.
  • Decorative Items: Pack extra pillows, blankets, and decorative items that aren’t used daily.
  • Books and Magazines: Pack books and magazines you haven’t read in a while.
  • Extra Kitchenware: Pack extra dishes, glasses, and cookware you don’t use regularly.
  • Non-Essential Furniture: Pack furniture you won’t need until after the move, like extra chairs or a coffee table.

Read more about “The First Apartment Moving Checklist: 25 Must-Haves + Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Move 📦”

How to prepare for an out of state move?

Moving to a new state requires extra planning and preparation. Here’s a checklist:

  • Research Your New State: Learn about the cost of living, housing market, job opportunities, and local laws.
  • Obtain a Driver’s License: Update your driver’s license to reflect your new state of residence.
  • Register Your Vehicle: Register your vehicle with the DMV in your new state.
  • Change Your Voter Registration: Update your voter registration to ensure you can vote in your new state.
  • Update Your Insurance: Contact your insurance company to update your address and ensure your policies are valid in your new state.

Read more about “What Items to Move First When Moving? 15 Essential Packing Tips You Need to Know! 📦 …”

Should I get rid of everything before I move?

Getting rid of unwanted items before a move can be beneficial for several reasons:

  • Less to Pack: You’ll have fewer boxes to move, making the process more manageable.
  • Less to Unpack: You’ll have less to unpack and organize in your new home.
  • Financial Gain: You can sell or donate unwanted items to earn some extra cash or support a good cause.
  • Clutter-Free Life: Moving is a great opportunity to declutter and simplify your life.

However, it’s important to consider:

  • Sentimental Value: Some items may hold sentimental value and may not be worth getting rid of.
  • Future Use: You might need some items in the future, so consider storing them instead of discarding them.
  • Space Constraints: If you have limited space in your new home, you may need to get rid of more items.

Ultimately, the decision of what to get rid of is personal. Consider your needs, space limitations, and sentimental value when making your choices.

Read more about “How to Pack and Move in 2 Weeks: 15 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Move! 🚚 …”


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