A move goes smoother when tasks are spread out over weeks instead of crammed into the last few days. Work backward from moving day.
8 to 6 weeks before
Set a budget, get quotes from movers or truck rentals, start decluttering, and gather boxes and supplies.
5 to 3 weeks before
Book the movers or truck, start packing rooms you use least, and schedule utilities to start at the new place and stop at the old one.
2 weeks before
Update your address with the post office, bank, employer and subscriptions. Confirm the moving date.
Moving week
Pack an "open first" box (chargers, medications, toilet paper, sheets, snacks, basic tools), defrost the freezer, and clean.
After the move
Unpack by priority, update your driver's license and vehicle registration (rules and deadlines vary by state), and check for damaged items.
Box tips
Number every box and note the room and contents. Mark fragile and open-first boxes.
Moving budget
Include movers or truck, fuel, supplies, cleaning, deposits, and a buffer for surprises.
Checklist
- ☐ Budget set
- ☐ Quotes collected and movers booked
- ☐ Boxes and supplies
- ☐ Pack least-used rooms first
- ☐ Utilities scheduled
- ☐ Address changes done
- ☐ Open-first box packed
- ☐ Boxes numbered by room
- ☐ License and registration updated
- ☐ Deposit return requested