Moving into a new residence is an arduous task. From planning to packing to moving in and getting settled, the to-do list for moving day is long. That’s why it’s important to get your ducks in a row early—and what better way to do that than with the ultimate moving checklist? Here’s our go-to list of essential moving day tips to make switching up your space a little less daunting.
Planning Ahead
- Set your move date
- Research moving companies or truck rentals and secure the services you’ll need
- Arrange work and childcare schedules to accommodate moving day
- Make arrangements for your pet(s) so they’re safely out of the way on moving day
- Take pictures and measurements at your new residence for furniture placement and design planning
- Let your neighbors know about your move
Declutter, Organize, and Pack
- Donate and dispose of items you no longer need—your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook is a great resource for this!
- Organize items into categories before packing. We like to pack boxes by room and label them accordingly for easy unpacking!
- Gather moving supplies like boxes, tape, newspaper, bubble wrap, and scissors
- Start by packing your nonessential items, like out-of-season clothing, special occasion serveware, etc
Change Address and Notify Utilities
- Submit a change address form with the United States Postal Service
- Update the address on file for your bank, credit card, health plans, and insurance companies
- Update your address for any monthly subscriptions
- If possible, transfer utilities (electricity, water, gas, and internet) from your current residence to your new one
- Notify loved ones and neighbors of your new address
- Consider asking a trusted neighbor to collect any mail that might still come to your current residence post-move
Prep for Moving Day
- Schedule cleaning services for move-out day, or deep clean each room as you pack
- Pack one box with the essentials you’ll need on moving day in your new space—think toilet paper, paper towels, sponges, cleaning spray, bottled water, snacks, and pet food
- Make a plan for meals on moving day and the day after
Moving Day
- Keep a list of important phone numbers you might need if there’s a question on moving day (movers, new landlord, homeowner’s association contact, etc)
- Supervise movers and provide instructions on where boxes and furniture should be placed
- Secure valuables, medications, and important documents and keep them with you on move-in day
Post-Move
- Unpack the essentials first,starting in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom
- Recycle or give away moving boxes (again, your local Buy Nothing group can come in handy here!)
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration
