Ultimate Moving Checklist and Resource Guide

Moving doesn't have to be stressful! Use this checklist to stay organized, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

# Category Checklist Item
1 Planning Your Move Set your moving date.
2 Planning Your Move Create a moving timeline with deadlines.
3 Planning Your Move Research moving companies and request quotes.
4 Planning Your Move Book your moving company early.
5 Planning Your Move Plan your moving budget.
6 Planning Your Move Make a checklist of all tasks to complete.
7 Planning Your Move Research storage options, if needed.
8 Planning Your Move Check the weather forecast for your moving day.
9 Planning Your Move Cancel memberships and subscriptions at your current location.
10 Planning Your Move Gather important documents and keep them in a safe place.
11 Packing Declutter your home before packing.
12 Packing Sort items into “keep,” “sell,” “donate,” and “trash” categories.
13 Packing Label each box with its contents and destination room.
14 Packing Use color-coded labels for easier unpacking.
15 Packing Pack an essentials box for the first few days.
16 Packing Wrap fragile items with bubble wrap or towels.
17 Packing Disassemble furniture to save space.
18 Packing Take photos of electronics to remember how to reconnect them.
19 Packing Use suitcases for heavier items like books.
20 Packing Don’t overpack boxes to avoid breakage.
21 Utilities Contact utility companies to schedule disconnections.
22 Utilities Set up utilities at your new home.
23 Utilities Forward your mail with the postal service.
24 Utilities Update your address with banks and subscriptions.
25 Utilities Check for outstanding bills at your old address.
26 Cleaning Deep clean your current home before leaving.
27 Cleaning Hire a cleaning service if needed.
28 Cleaning Clean appliances and empty the refrigerator.
29 Cleaning Take out all trash and recyclables.
30 Cleaning Vacuum and mop floors.
31 Unpacking Start with the essentials box first.
32 Unpacking Assemble your furniture before unpacking boxes.
33 Unpacking Organize rooms one at a time.
34 Unpacking Dispose of packing materials responsibly.
35 Unpacking Set up your kitchen first for functionality.
36 Unpacking Inspect your belongings for damage.
37 Unpacking Hang curtains or blinds for privacy.
38 Unpacking Organize closets and storage spaces.
39 Unpacking Dispose of any unwanted items or donate them.
40 Unpacking Set up your bed for the first night's rest.
41 Unpacking Test all appliances in your new home.
42 Unpacking Set up your workspace if working from home.
43 Pets Update pet tags with your new address.
44 Pets Find a veterinarian near your new home.
45 Pets Pack a pet essentials bag for the move.
46 Pets Keep pets in a safe, secure room during the move.
47 Pets Introduce pets to one room at a time.
48 Pets Ensure fences or enclosures are secure.
49 Pets Stick to your pet's regular schedule during the transition.
50 Kids Talk to your kids about the move and involve them in planning.
51 Kids Research schools near your new home.
52 Kids Pack a bag of favorite toys and comfort items for the move.
53 Kids Arrange childcare during moving day.
54 Kids Set up your child’s room first in the new home.
55 Kids Visit local parks and attractions to help them adjust.
56 Kids Update school records with your new address.
57 Safety Change the locks on your new home.
58 Safety Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
59 Safety Locate the main water shutoff valve and circuit breakers.
60 Safety Install a home security system if desired.
61 Safety Check for any hazardous materials left by previous owners.
62 Safety Keep a first-aid kit easily accessible.
63 Documentation Update your driver's license with your new address.
64 Documentation Update your vehicle registration.
65 Documentation Notify your employer of your address change.
66 Documentation Transfer your medical records to new healthcare providers.
67 Documentation Update your voter registration.
68 Documentation Update online shopping accounts with your new address.
69 Documentation Cancel or update your gym membership.
70 Neighbors Introduce yourself to your new neighbors.
71 Neighbors Join local community groups or events.
72 Neighbors Share your contact information for emergencies.
73 Neighbors Ask for recommendations for local services.
74 Neighbors Host a housewarming party to meet people.
75 Home Setup Arrange furniture for optimal comfort and space.
76 Home Setup Install curtains, blinds, or shades for privacy.
77 Home Setup Ensure plumbing and electrical systems are functioning.
78 Home Setup Set up Wi-Fi and test internet connectivity.
79 Home Setup Organize and decorate your home to feel comfortable.
80 Home Setup Inspect your home for repairs or improvements needed.
81 Local Exploration Find the nearest grocery stores and gas stations.
82 Local Exploration Locate local hospitals and clinics.
83 Local Exploration Discover nearby restaurants and cafes.
84 Local Exploration Research local schools, libraries, and parks.
85 Local Exploration Check for local emergency services contact numbers.
86 Local Exploration Join local social media groups for community updates.
87 Finances Set up a new budget for your new location.
88 Finances Update financial accounts with your new address.
89 Finances Check for cost-of-living changes in your new area.
90 Finances Transfer utilities and services into your name.
91 Finances Review insurance policies for updates.
92 Finances Set up autopay for bills if needed.
93 General Check for local ordinances or HOA rules.
94 General Familiarize yourself with public transportation options.
95 General Learn about local recycling and waste disposal schedules.
96 General Explore local events and attractions for entertainment.
97 General Create an emergency contact list for your area.
98 General Check your mail regularly for any missed updates.
99 General Update your contact information with friends and family.
100 General Take time to relax and enjoy your new home!
Bonus General