Moving Checklist

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Toggle 3-6 months prior to moving day status

3-6 months prior to moving day

Toggle Research moving companies (get quotes from at least 3 of them) status

Research moving companies (get quotes from at least 3 of them)

Toggle Book moving company status

Book moving company

Toggle If you will be changing doctors with your move, start researching doctors in your new area and find out if they are accepting new patients. status

If you will be changing doctors with your move, start researching doctors in your new area and find out if they are accepting new patients.

Toggle 2 months prior to moving day status

2 months prior to moving day

Toggle Take an inventory of everything in your house (this includes writing down the serial numbers of all electronics and appliances for insurance purposes). status

Take an inventory of everything in your house (this includes writing down the serial numbers of all electronics and appliances for insurance purposes).

Toggle Decide what you are keeping, giving away, selling or throwing out. status

Decide what you are keeping, giving away, selling or throwing out.

Toggle Organize a garage sale to sell those items that you can, if the weather is inclement you can always try to sell some items online status

Organize a garage sale to sell those items that you can, if the weather is inclement you can always try to sell some items online

Toggle Choose a charity for the items you are donating status

Choose a charity for the items you are donating

Toggle Call the city to pick up the items that you want to throw away if they are pieces of furniture or if you have more than your limit of garbage bags to collect status

Call the city to pick up the items that you want to throw away if they are pieces of furniture or if you have more than your limit of garbage bags to collect

Toggle Call utility companies to inform them that you will be cutting power/water/cable on your moving day at your old address and have them reconnected at your new address on the same day status

Call utility companies to inform them that you will be cutting power/water/cable on your moving day at your old address and have them reconnected at your new address on the same day

Toggle Arrange for your mail to be forwarded to your new address – do not wait to have this done since processing times can take up to two months in some places. status

Arrange for your mail to be forwarded to your new address – do not wait to have this done since processing times can take up to two months in some places.

Toggle Arrange for your medical, dental and other health records to be transferred to your new doctor (if you are changing practitionners) status

Arrange for your medical, dental and other health records to be transferred to your new doctor (if you are changing practitionners)

Toggle If you have children, start arranging the transfer of their files to their new school. status

If you have children, start arranging the transfer of their files to their new school.

Toggle Start collecting boxes for packing! status

Start collecting boxes for packing!

Toggle 6 weeks prior to moving day status

6 weeks prior to moving day

Toggle Send out a mass mailing to friends and associates informing them of your move and your new address status

Send out a mass mailing to friends and associates informing them of your move and your new address

Toggle Have your address changed for all of your: bank accounts, magazine subscriptions, credit cards, tax forms, insurances, gym memberships, book clubs, video rental places, etc… status

Have your address changed for all of your: bank accounts, magazine subscriptions, credit cards, tax forms, insurances, gym memberships, book clubs, video rental places, etc…

Toggle If you have children and/or pets arrange for someone to watch them on your moving day status

If you have children and/or pets arrange for someone to watch them on your moving day

Toggle Start packing the rooms that are used least (basements, storage areas, attics, guest rooms, etc…) status

Start packing the rooms that are used least (basements, storage areas, attics, guest rooms, etc…)

Toggle 1 month prior to moving day status

1 month prior to moving day

Toggle Start packing in earnest! Get yourself organized by labelling each box with its contents and keep a master list on yourself status

Start packing in earnest! Get yourself organized by labelling each box with its contents and keep a master list on yourself

Toggle 2 weeks prior to moving day status

2 weeks prior to moving day

Toggle Call movers or rental company to confirm your booking status

Call movers or rental company to confirm your booking

Toggle Cancel newspaper subscription status

Cancel newspaper subscription

Toggle Finish up major packing status

Finish up major packing

Toggle 1 week prior to moving day status

1 week prior to moving day

Toggle Make a detailed map of the directions from your old place to your new address so that the movers will not get lost – make sure your cell phone number is on it status

Make a detailed map of the directions from your old place to your new address so that the movers will not get lost – make sure your cell phone number is on it

Toggle Confirm babysitters/pet sitters status

Confirm babysitters/pet sitters

Toggle Should you be moving yourself, start dismantling larger items such as beds, tables, etc… status

Should you be moving yourself, start dismantling larger items such as beds, tables, etc…

Toggle The day before moving day status

The day before moving day

Toggle Pack your personal travel bag – it should include all of the items you are taking in your car such as all valuables (jewellery, important documents, personal garments, an overnight bag) status

Pack your personal travel bag – it should include all of the items you are taking in your car such as all valuables (jewellery, important documents, personal garments, an overnight bag)

Toggle Reconfirm time with movers/rental truck company status

Reconfirm time with movers/rental truck company

Toggle Moving day status

Moving day

Toggle Take readings from all your utility meters! status

Take readings from all your utility meters!

Toggle Be present while movers are loading the truck status

Be present while movers are loading the truck

Toggle If any items were damaged, note it on inventory list before truck leaves status

If any items were damaged, note it on inventory list before truck leaves

Toggle After truck is loaded, go over house one last time checking cupboards, closets, closing windows, turning down thermostats. status

After truck is loaded, go over house one last time checking cupboards, closets, closing windows, turning down thermostats.

Toggle Lock all doors and inform neighbours that the house is vacant status

Lock all doors and inform neighbours that the house is vacant

Download or Print this Moving Checklist

Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.

Presented by:

John F. Smith

John F. Smith

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1,074

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Introduction

Our Moving Checklist guides you through every step of the moving process, from booking movers to unpacking & setting up your new home efficiently. Covering all essential tasks, this template ensures a smooth transition and helps you settle in comfortably. Get started by clicking Save and customizing the checklist using our Checklist App. Sync tasks across devices, collaborate easily with family or friends, and keep everyting organized in one place. You can also download your checklist as a PDF or print it to keep track of your progress and make your move stress-free.

Details

Moving Checklist Tips

Moving can be quite an intimidating task. You are moving to a new place and there are many unknowns. This moving checklist is there to map for you the road ahead. You can quickly scan through it to get the big picture. But we do recommend that you save it to your checklist account and use it to plan your upcoming move. Take out any irrelevant tasks and highlight the important ones (e.g. finding a moving company).

Who it's for

This Moving Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.

  • Avoid forgetting - keep all your Moving essentials in one place (external memory)
  • Save time - start from a proven Moving structure instead of a blank page
  • Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
  • Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
  • Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time

How to use it

How to use this Moving Checklist

  • Save Moving Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
  • Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Moving (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
  • If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
  • Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.

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Rate this Checklist

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Scores 4.70 with 638 votes

Moving Checklist Frequently Asked Questions

How to pack for a move in one week?

Packing for a move in just one week can be challenging, but with a solid plan, it's achievable. Here's how to do it effectively:

  1. Create a Packing Schedule: Break down your packing tasks by day. Focus on one room at a time.
  2. Gather Supplies: Collect boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Having everything ready saves time.
  3. Declutter: Sort through belongings and donate or dispose of items you no longer need.
  4. Pack Essentials First: Identify essential items you need immediately and pack them last.
  5. Label Boxes: Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for easy unpacking.
  6. Stay Organized: Keep similar items together and use padding for fragile items.

By following this checklist, you can efficiently pack your home within a week while minimizing stress.

How to pack a house in 30 days?

Packing your house in 30 days allows for a more organized approach, reducing stress during your move. Here's a suggested timeline:

  1. Week 1 - Plan & Declutter: Assess each room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
  2. Week 2 - Gather Supplies & Start Packing: Purchase packing supplies and begin with non-essential items in less-used rooms (e.g., attic, basement).
  3. Week 3 - Continue Packing: Focus on bedrooms and living areas. Pack seasonal clothes and decor first.
  4. Week 4 - Finalize Packing: Pack kitchen items, essentials last, and ensure everything is labeled clearly.

By spreading out the packing process over 30 days, you maintain organization and reduce the likelihood of forgetting important items.

What is the hardest room to pack when moving?

The kitchen is often considered the hardest room to pack when moving due to its variety of items and fragile nature. Here are some reasons why:

  • Variety of Items: Kitchens contain everything from dishes to appliances, making it tricky to organize.
  • Fragile Items: Glassware and dishes require careful packing to avoid breakage.
  • Food Storage: You must deal with perishable items close to moving day, adding complexity.

To simplify packing your kitchen:

  • Use sturdy boxes specifically designed for dishes.
  • Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or towels for added protection.
  • Label boxes as 'fragile' to ensure careful handling during the move.

How far in advance should you start packing to move?

The ideal time to start packing for a move depends on the size of your home and how much you have to pack. Generally:

  • Small Apartments: Begin packing about 2-3 weeks in advance.
  • Larger Homes: Start at least 4-6 weeks prior to your moving date.

Remember, the more time you give yourself, the smoother the process will be!

Is it possible to move within a week?

Yes, moving within a week is possible but requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips:

  • Create a Detailed Plan: Outline tasks for each day leading up to the move.
  • Book Movers Early: If using professional movers, schedule them as soon as possible since availability can be limited on short notice.
  • Declutter Quickly: Minimize what needs to be moved by donating or discarding unnecessary items before packing.
  • Pack Efficiently: Focus on essentials first and leave heavy furniture for last-minute packing or professional help.

With dedication and organization, you can successfully complete a move within just one week!

How quickly can you pack up a house to move?

Packing up a house can vary based on size and contents but generally takes:

  • Small Apartments: About 1-2 days if done efficiently with help.
  • Medium-Sized Homes: Approximately 3-5 days if packed systematically.
  • Large Homes: Typically requires a week or more due to the volume of belongings.

To speed up the process:

  1. Get Help: Enlist friends or hire professionals for assistance.
  2. Use Proper Supplies: Invest in quality boxes and packing materials for efficiency.
  3. Stay Organized: Label boxes clearly by room and contents for easy unpacking later.

Effective planning can significantly reduce the time required for packing.

What is the best thing to pack first when moving?

When preparing for a move, it's best to start with non-essential items that you won't need immediately after moving day. Here are some suggestions:

  • Seasonal Items: Clothes or decorations that aren't relevant during your moving timeframe (e.g., winter clothes in summer).
  • Books & Media: If you have a collection of books or DVDs, these can be packed early as they are rarely needed daily.
  • Decorative Items: Artwork, knick-knacks, and other non-essential decor can also be packed early on.

Starting with these items not only clears space but also allows you to focus on essential belongings as moving day approaches.

What's the best day to move a house?

The best day to move typically falls mid-week—Tuesday through Thursday—due to lower demand compared to weekends. Consider these factors when choosing your moving day:

  • Cost Efficiency: Moving companies often charge less during weekdays than weekends when demand is higher.
  • Availability of Movers: You're more likely to secure your preferred moving company without scheduling conflicts mid-week.
  • Traffic Conditions: Weekdays usually have less traffic than weekends, making logistics easier.

If possible, avoid moving at the beginning or end of the month when many leases change hands.

Should you load boxes or furniture first?

When loading a moving truck, it's generally recommended to load larger furniture pieces before boxes. Here's why:

  1. Space Optimization: Large furniture takes up more space; loading it first allows you to fit boxes around it more effectively.
  2. Protection of Fragile Items: Loading heavy furniture first prevents them from crushing fragile boxes placed below them during transport.
  3. Easier Access: Having large items loaded first makes it easier during unloading since they are bulky and require more effort when maneuvering out of the truck.

By following this order—furniture first followed by boxes—you ensure an efficient loading process.

How do you pack a house fast and efficiently?

To pack your house quickly and efficiently, follow these essential steps:

  1. Plan Ahead: Create a detailed timeline leading up to your move date with specific tasks assigned each day.
  2. Gather Packing Supplies: Collect boxes (various sizes), tape, bubble wrap, markers, and labels before starting your packing process.
  3. Declutter First: Sort through belongings room by room; donate or discard items you no longer need which reduces what needs packing!
  4. Pack Room by Room: Focus on one area at a time; this minimizes chaos and keeps things organized.
  5. Use Efficient Techniques: Use wardrobe boxes for clothing still on hangers; fill pots with smaller kitchen items instead of separate boxes where possible!
  6. Label Everything Clearly: Mark boxes with their contents and destination rooms for easier unpacking later on!

By implementing these strategies, you'll streamline your packing process significantly.

What movers will not move?

While most movers handle standard household items, there are certain categories that professional movers typically will not transport:

  1. Hazardous Materials: This includes flammable substances like gasoline or propane tanks, nail polish remover, chemicals like bleach or paint thinner, and other toxic materials that pose safety risks during transport.
  2. Perishable Foods: Most movers will not transport perishable food items due to spoilage risks unless they are specifically equipped for it (like refrigerated trucks).
  3. Valuables & Important Documents: Items like cash, jewelry, or important legal documents should be transported personally instead of via movers for security reasons!
  4. Live Plants & Animals: Some companies may refuse transporting pets or plants due to regulations regarding their care during transit!

Always check with your moving company beforehand about their policies regarding what they will or won't transport!

Is it easier to move with boxes or bags?

When deciding between using boxes or bags for moving, consider these key points:

Boxes:

  • Provide better structure and protection for fragile items such as glassware or electronics.
  • Stack easily in vehicles/trucks without losing shape; maximizing space utilization!
  • Ideal for organizing smaller household goods since they come in various sizes!

Bags:

  • Lighter than boxes; easier for carrying clothing, bedding, and soft goods like towels!
  • Great for quick loading/unloading situations due their flexibility!

Conclusion:

For an efficient move combining both options may work best! Use sturdy boxes for fragile/delicate items while utilizing bags for clothing/linens! This strategy balances protection with convenience!

What is the 1 to 6 packing rule?

The 1 to 6 Packing Rule is an effective guideline aimed at simplifying your packing process while ensuring nothing gets overlooked during relocation! Here's how it works:

  1. For every one item that you decide to keep (or bring along), consider six others that should either be discarded, donated, or sold! This helps reduce clutter significantly before moving!
  2. As an example, you might keep one favorite shirt but then let go of six others that no longer fit well or serve purpose! 3.In essence, the rule emphasizes decluttering as part of preparation—leading towards an efficient overall transition! By following this approach, you'll not only lighten your load but also make unpacking easier once settled into new space!

What is the cheapest month to move?

The cheapest months to move typically fall between October through April—especially during mid-month days! Here's why these months are budget-friendly:

  1. Lower Demand: Fewer people relocate during colder months compared with summer peak season;
  2. Discounted Rates: Many moving companies offer promotions/discounts during off-seasons;
  3. Avoid weekends—plan mid-week moves whenever possible as they're generally cheaper than weekend rates too! If you're looking for cost-effective options, scheduling your move between October-April could save significant amounts!

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