Moving Checklist: The Ultimate Timeline (Before, During, and After Moving Day) 

Moving can be one of the most exciting times in your life. This checklist helps simplify planning and keep you organized, so nothing important slips through the cracks (like setting up your internet before moving day).

Follow this simple timeline from 8 weeks out through move-in week. Ready to get started? Let’s jump in!

Moving Checklist Timeline (Quick View)

• 8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Planning
• 6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Book and Prep
• 4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Paperwork and Address Changes
• 2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing
• 1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Details
• Moving Day Checklist: Checks to Keep You in Control
• First Week After Moving: Settle in Faster

8 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Planning

Key checklist items:

• Pick your moving date
• Set a moving budget 
• Compare your moving options:
  • DIY truck rental
  • Full-service movers
  • Portable storage container
• Start a “moving folder” for receipts, quotes, and confirmations

Pro tip: Declutter room by room before you pack. Donate or consolidate to avoid moving unnecessary or unwanted items.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day: Book and Prep

Key checklist items:

• Get quotes and book movers (or reserve a truck)
• Request time off work if needed
• Start collecting supplies:
  • Boxes, tape, markers, labels
• Make an inventory list (especially for valuables)
• Measure large furniture and check doorways at your new place

4 Weeks Before Moving Day: Paperwork and Address Changes

Key checklist items:

• Update your address with USPS
• Make a list of who to notify, such as:
  • Employer and payroll
  • Banks and credit cards
  • Insurance providers
  • Subscriptions and delivery services
• Schedule utilities for shutoff and start dates:
  • Electric
  • Water
  • Internet
  • Gas
• Confirm move-in details with your landlord or realtor

2 Weeks Before Moving Day: Start Packing

Key checklist items:

• Pack items you don’t use daily
• Label boxes by room and “open first” priority
• Set aside important documents (keep these with you)
• Plan for pets and kids on moving day

1 Week Before Moving Day: Final Details

Key checklist items:

• Confirm movers, arrival time, and payment method
• Pack essentials separately (your “first night box”) including:
  • Toiletries, medications, chargers, towels, paper towels
• Wash laundry and pack clothes strategically
• Take photos of electronics before unplugging cords
• Prep your home for moving day:
  • Clear walkways
  • Protect floors
  • Set aside basic tools

Moving Day Checklist: Checks to Keep You in Control

Key checklist items:

• Do a final walk-through of every room, closet, and cabinet
• Keep valuables with you (not in a box)
• Have snacks and water ready
• Check off boxes and furniture as they leave the house
• Take photos of empty rooms (especially helpful for renters)
• Lock doors and return keys if applicable

First Week After Moving: Settle in Faster

Key checklist items:

• Unpack essentials first
• Test smoke detectors and safety items
• Update your address on:
  • Driver’s license and vehicle registration (rules vary by state)
• Find nearby essentials like:
  • Grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations
• Review your new monthly budget and include:
  • Rent or mortgage changes, utilities, and commute costs

Moving Budget Checklist (Costs People Forget)

Moving costs add up fast. Here are some common expenses not typically planned for:

• Deposits and application fees
• Packing supplies
• Truck rental and mileage
• Gas and tolls
• Tips for movers
• Cleaning costs
• Storage unit fees
• New furniture or appliances
• Utility connection fees

Moving Checklist FAQ

What should I pack first when moving?
Start with items you don’t use every day, like seasonal clothes, extra linens, books, and decorations.

When should I start packing for a move?
The earlier, the better. Start by decluttering first, then begin packing non-essentials about 2–4 weeks before moving day.

What should I put in a first night box?
Pack the basics you’ll want right away, like toiletries, medications, chargers, towels, paper towels, and a few cleaning supplies.

How do I change my address when moving?
You can submit a change of address online through USPS or by visiting your local post office to fill out a form.

How can I save money on moving costs?
Try these simple money-saving tips:

• Declutter and donate before you pack
• Get at least 2–3 mover quotes
• Ask friends and family for free boxes
• Pack yourself to reduce labor costs
• Avoid last-minute supply runs

Pro tip: Move mid-week or mid-month if possible. (These are less popular times with less demand, so prices are typically lower.)

Final Tip: A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Moving is a big life event, but with a little planning and the right checklist, it can feel a lot more manageable.