The Ultimate Moving Checklist for a Stress-Free Relocation
The main stressor that makes every move overwhelming is when it's rushed and unplanned. Truth is, even if you plan weeks ahead, there are still a lot of things that are left to do and often missed out. So, by how far should you plan and do things? Whether it’s for FF&E transport, a gallery shipping high-value pieces, or an international client managing complex logistics, a clear checklist from planning to unpacking makes a huge difference.
Rather than relying on memory, which often leads to missed steps and preventable issues. With a checklist, you help bring order, save time, and make tasks more reliable. To help you make sure that all important plans are in order, in this article, we compile all the important things you need to get you settled peacefully in the new area.
What to Do 8 to 6 Weeks Before You Move
The last 8-6 weeks before relocation is when you should start to settle all your affairs. These weeks should focus mainly on initial planning and preparation, including finding trusted local movers and planning how you’ll settle into your new place, while also accounting for the belongings you have at your current place.
8 Weeks Before Moving Checklist
Create a moving folder
Depending on where you are comfortable, this could be digital or physical. This is where you organize all documents, information, and notes related to your move to keep everything in one place. This also helps you track your tasks and timeline. This is a legit life-saver during the whole process.
Tips on how to make a moving folder:
Choose your format- put this on cloud storage, a folder on your computer, or a physical binder.
Create sections- make the most of it by dividing it into sections like: “Moving Company Info,” “Inventory List,” “Utilities & Services,” “Receipts & Payments,” and “Checklists”. You can use Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or specialized home inventory apps for this.
Add important documents- contracts, insurance papers, quotes, receipts, and notes. Mark important timelines, including important dates like packing, utility shut-offs, and moving day.
Check and Update- constantly check off completed tasks as you go.
Research and hire a reputable moving company
Begin your early search, as this is one of the most important decisions you have to make. Have time to compare companies and avoid last-minute stress. Don’t just take their word for it during inquiries.
Look for companies with strong Google reviews, complete licensing, and insurance. To help you decide, check platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, or Google Reviews, and verify DOT or FMCSA numbers for interstate moves. Ask how they handle damage claims and delays.
Important Reads: How to Choose the Right Full-Service Moving Company
Inventory your belongings
This is especially important for high-value belongings for 3 main reasons. First, weight will determine the moving cost estimate based on fuel and labor costs. Second, when organizing your new place, a list lets you track what to keep, donate, or discard to avoid unnecessary clutter at your new address.
This makes unpacking easier as you already know which moving boxes to unpack first. Lastly, for tracking purposes, of what has been packed, loaded, and transported. If there are missing or damaged items, access to information is easily available for a faster insurance claim. Don’t forget to add these to your moving folder list.
Notify landlord
Never delay this task to avoid conflict or needless penalties, like another charge in rent or losing a security deposit. This way, you leave on good terms and avoid legal issues. Landlords also need to prepare the place for a new tenant and give back your deposit.
Schedule cancellations of utilities and services
Old address
Gather all information for utilities and services, including account numbers and contact information. Check the notice for all electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, trash collection, and any subscription services tied to your current address. Most providers need 1-2 weeks' notice for disconnection, so you need to contact each provider and specifically set a cancellation date, ideally a day before your move. Transfer or forward services if needed.
New address
Look for new service providers in your new location. An easier way is to check for government resources found on their websites. Use tools like Sortly or Excel to track items.
6 Weeks Before Moving
Now that we have sorted out the initial tasks, the next thing to figure out is the preparation for transport.
Order moving supplies
At a minimum, you’ll need sturdy boxes and bubble wrap to keep your belongings safe. It may feel like another chore, but professional movers often provide the supplies you need, making the process much easier.
Plan for high-value transport
Specialty crates are essential for artwork, antiques, and other valuables. Line your vehicle with blankets or foam to absorb shocks during transit, and ensure the temperature is stable. Wine should go in cases with extra cardboard protection. For high-value or fragile items, hiring white-glove movers is the safest choice.
Start using up perishables and cleaning supplies
Those fridge items that might spoil and half-empty bottles of cleaners can turn into a real headache if you try to move them as-is. By using them up, you lighten your load, avoid waste, and make packing a lot less stressful. Plus, when you get to your new place, unpacking feels a lot easier without all those extra items weighing you down.
Measure the new space for furniture fit
Check doorways, hallways, and room dimensions to avoid surprises on moving day. Knowing the exact space helps you plan where each piece will go, prevents damage from tight squeezes, and saves time and stress during the move.
4 Weeks Before Moving
Poor packing can be a cause of damage claims. Fragile items that aren’t properly cushioned or secured are more likely to break during transit. Here’s what you need to do:
Begin packing non-essentials
Pack seasonal clothes, extra kitchenware, and decor you don’t use daily. This reduces last-minute stress and keeps your space organized.
Label boxes by room and content
Helps movers place items correctly and speeds up unpacking.
Arrange vehicle transport or storage
Decide if items go directly to your new home or need temporary storage. Book trucks or storage units early.
2 Weeks Before Moving
Confirm moving date and services
Double-check movers, equipment, and special handling requirements.
Set up mail forwarding via USPS
Ensure letters and packages reach your new address via USPS.
Backup important documents digitally
Scan passports, financial records, and insurance papers for safe, easy access.
Arrange pet transport or childcare for move day
Keep them safe and occupied so you can focus on the move.
1 Week Before Moving
Finish packing essentials
Keep toiletries, medications, important documents, and a few days’ clothes in a labeled “moving essentials” box.
Clean old residence
Sweep, dust, and wipe surfaces to leave the space ready for the next occupants.
Confirm with movers and storage providers
Verify dates, arrival times, services, and special instructions.
Moving Day Checklist
Supervise loading
Guide movers on fragile items and high-value possessions.Perform final walkthrough
Check every room, closet, and cabinet to ensure nothing is left behind.Secure valuables
Keep jewelry, cash, documents, and small electronics with you.Take inventory photos before loading
Document furniture and valuable items before loading for reference in case of damage.Provide movers with clear instructions and contact info
Share guidance for fragile items, special handling, and box placement with your movers.
After the Move
Unpack essentials first
Start with items like toiletries, basic kitchen supplies, medications, and a few days’ worth of clothes. Having these necessities ready makes your first day in your new home smoother and helps you avoid digging through boxes when you’re tired from the move.
Inspect for damage
Check furniture, electronics, and fragile items carefully, and compare them with your inventory or photos taken before the move. Identifying any issues early allows you to file claims promptly and ensures your possessions are properly accounted for.Register new address with DMV, banks, IRS
Updating your address ensures you receive official documents, account statements, and tax information without delays. Taking care of these updates promptly helps you avoid missed deadlines and keeps your records accurate.Leave a review for your moving company
Sharing your experience helps other customers make informed decisions and gives the company valuable feedback. Highlight what went well and any areas for improvement to support better service in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do not pack flammable materials like gas or paint, perishable foods, live plants, pets, cash, jewelry, or important documents.
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It’s ideal to book a moving company 8-weeks before the move to make sure that you will be able to book your chosen movers especially during peak seasons like summer or the end of the month.
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While you could move valuable items in a regular truck, the safest option is to hire white glove movers. They have the expertise to carefully pack, transport, unpack, and even assemble high-value items like artwork, antiques, or wine collections.
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For an international move, you’ll typically need:
A valid passport is required for everyone traveling
Visas or work permits for your destination country
Customs forms and import/export documentation for your belongings
Inventory lists for your shipment, especially for high-value or restricted items
Insurance documents for your household goods
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Moving companies usually ask for a preliminary inventory list of items to be moved, so it’s best to prioritize this first. The list should include office equipment, furniture, documents, and all other important things. Schedule the move during off-hours or weekends if possible, and label all boxes by department or function.
Moving across town or shipping valuable pieces across the country? Contact us today for a moving estimate and personalized relocation plan.
