The Ultimate Moving Checklist
Eight weeks out to moving day — every task, in order, so nothing slips through the cracks.
8 Weeks Out
- Create a moving binder (or Google Doc) for quotes, receipts, contracts
- Research and book movers — reserve early for weekends and month-ends
- Start decluttering: donate, sell, or toss anything you don't need
- Measure large furniture against new home's doorways and stairs
6 Weeks Out
- Collect free boxes or order a moving supplies kit
- Inventory valuables and take photos of electronics setups
- Notify schools; request records transfer if needed
- Begin using up frozen and pantry food
4 Weeks Out
- File a USPS change of address (usps.com/move)
- Update address for banks, insurance, subscriptions, DMV
- Schedule utility shutoff (old) and setup (new): power, water, gas, internet
- Book off work for moving day; arrange childcare/pet care
2 Weeks Out
- Start packing non-essentials: books, decor, out-of-season clothes
- Label every box clearly by ROOM and CONTENTS
- Confirm move date, time, and address with your movers
- Refill critical prescriptions
1 Week Out
- Pack an essentials box: toiletries, chargers, meds, snacks, changes of clothes, tools
- Empty and defrost the freezer
- Disassemble bed frames only if crew isn't doing it
- Withdraw a bit of cash for tips (industry standard: $20–$40 per mover for a full-day move)
Moving Day
- Walk the crew through your home; point out fragile / do-not-move items
- Keep valuables and documents WITH YOU, not on the truck
- Do a final sweep of every closet, cabinet, garage, and attic
- Sign inventory paperwork and keep a copy
- Take meter readings before leaving
Room-by-Room Packing Playbook
Kitchen
Wrap dishes individually in packing paper; stack plates VERTICALLY (they survive better on-edge). Use small boxes — kitchen boxes get heavy fast.
Bedrooms
Roll clothing to save space; use wardrobe boxes for hanging items. Vacuum-seal off-season bedding. Take a photo of your dresser tops before packing.
Bathroom
Tape lids on liquids and place in a sealed bag. Toss expired anything. Pack a separate first-night toiletry bag.
Living Room
TV originals boxes are ideal — otherwise ask us for a TV kit. Photograph cable configurations before unplugging.
Garage / Basement
Drain gas from mowers/tools (movers can't transport fuel). Group by category, label boldly.
Home Office
Back up computers before the move. Photograph cable setups. Keep external drives and important documents on you.
What Movers Can't Transport
By law and for safety, professional movers can't carry hazardous, perishable, or irreplaceable items. Set these aside before we arrive.
- Hazardous materials (propane, gasoline, kerosene, motor oil)
- Paint, paint thinner, and aerosol cans
- Fireworks, ammunition, matches, lighter fluid
- Cleaning solvents, bleach, pool chemicals
- Perishable food (frozen, refrigerated, or unsealed)
- Live plants (some states prohibit interstate transport)
- Pets and animals of any kind
- Prescription medications and medical devices
- Cash, jewelry, and important legal documents
- Family heirlooms of high sentimental value
Ready to hand it all off?
Skip the checklist — hire full packing service and let our team handle it all.