Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. To keep you organized (and sane), here’s a simple week-by-week moving checklist you can follow from 8 weeks out all the way to your first days in your new home.

8 Weeks to Moving Day: Laying the Groundwork

  • ✅ Check your credit report (important for both renting and buying).

  • ✅ Research moving and storage insurance.

  • ✅ Start gathering estimates from movers or reserve a rental truck if DIY.

  • ✅ Review pet vaccination/quarantine requirements (especially if moving out of state).

  • ✅ Begin looking into child care and school districts in your new area.

7 Weeks to Moving Day: Get Organized

  • ✅ Create a moving file to store receipts, paperwork, and records.

  • ✅ Declutter your attic, garage, and storage spaces—sell, donate, or toss items.

  • ✅ Return borrowed items like library books.

  • ✅ Gather important personal documents and keep them in a secure case.

  • ✅ Lock in your mover and confirm moving insurance coverage.

6 Weeks to Moving Day: Tie Up Loose Ends

  • ✅ Update driver’s license and vehicle registration.

  • ✅ Donate items and collect receipts for tax purposes.

  • ✅ Sell unwanted items online or plan a garage sale.

  • ✅ Notify doctors and dentists of your move; request records and referrals.

  • ✅ Forward or cancel subscriptions and memberships.

  • ✅ Arrange pet transport and get vet records.

  • ✅ Finalize your children’s school selection and transfer records.

  • ✅ Open a new bank account in your new location.

5 Weeks to Moving Day: Prep Logistics

  • ✅ Reserve a hotel if you’ll need a place to stay before moving day.

  • ✅ Contact utilities to cancel or transfer service.

4 Weeks to Moving Day: Notify & Prepare

  • ✅ File an official change of address with the USPS.

  • ✅ Notify banks, creditors, and subscriptions.

  • ✅ Leave a forwarding address for new tenants/owners.

  • ✅ Buy boxes, packing materials, or storage bins.

3 Weeks to Moving Day: Start Packing

  • ✅ Begin packing little-used rooms first; designate a “box storage” area.

  • ✅ Look into storage options for items you can’t bring right away.

  • ✅ Create an inventory (and photos) of valuables.

  • ✅ Involve kids—let them pack some of their things and plan new room layouts.

  • ✅ Line up child care for moving day.

2 Weeks to Moving Day: Finalize Plans

  • ✅ Review all checklists to ensure you’re on track.

  • ✅ Close local bank accounts and transfer funds.

  • ✅ Empty your safe deposit box.

  • ✅ Drain fuel from lawn equipment and safely dispose of hazardous materials.

1 Week to Moving Day: Final Prep

  • ✅ Backup important computer files.

  • ✅ Service your car before the trip.

  • ✅ Use up perishable food or donate it.

  • ✅ Defrost the fridge/freezer and clean appliances.

  • ✅ Confirm all moving company details.

  • ✅ Refill prescriptions.

  • ✅ Pack a travel kit for your pets.

Moving Week: Game Time

  • ✅ Keep cash on hand for tips, snacks, or emergencies.

  • ✅ Do a deep clean of your home.

  • ✅ Walk through every room to check for forgotten items.

  • ✅ Pick up your rental truck (if self-moving).

  • ✅ Share your travel route with a family member/friend.

  • ✅ Keep kids and pets safe, calm, and out of the chaos.

At Your New Address: Settling In

  • ✅ Bring a cashier’s check for closing if buying.

  • ✅ Set up utilities and check gas/electric connections.

  • ✅ Collect held mail from the post office.

  • ✅ Update your driver’s license with your new address.

  • ✅ Register kids for school.

  • ✅ Find new doctors, dentists, and vets.

  • ✅ Notify insurance providers and update your will or trust if needed.