There are a lot of things which need to be done before moving, and not just packing. We hope that this moving checklist will help you stay organized so your move can go smoothly.
Packing Supplies Checklist
1 Month Before Moving
2-4 Weeks Before Moving
“Essentials” Box Checklist
2-3 Months Before Moving
Packing Supplies Checklist
- Boxes
- Electronics boxes
- Wardrobe boxes
- Reinforced boxes for fragile items
- Mirror and picture boxes
- Dish packs
- Bubble wrap
- Tissue paper
- Packing peanuts
- Box labels and markers
- Packing tape
Packing Checklist
2-3 Months Before Moving
- Sort through items
- Make plans for donating or recycling unwanted items
- Make plans for selling more valuable items you don’t want
- Obtain packing materials
- Start packing items which are rarely used
- Take measurements of furniture and make sure it can fit into new home
1 Month Before Moving
- Take inventory of items; valuable items should be photographed and serial numbers written down
- Start packing infrequently used items
- Start using up food items and cleaning products
- Separate out valuables to be moved on your own
- Return any borrowed items like library books
2-4 Weeks Before Moving
- Have rugs and drapes cleaned and packed for moving
- Start packing items which you don’t use very often, such as extra towels, linens, and knick-knacks
- Pack an essentials box
- Get rid of items which can’t be moved, such as paint and gas
- Prepare machinery like lawn mowers for moving
- Do laundry
- Continue packing and clean as you go
- Pack suitcases
- Refill prescriptions and pack in suitcases
- Empty safe deposit box
- Defrost fridge/freezer (3 days before moving)
- Prepare food for moving day
- Get money to pay movers and other expenses for the move
- Disassemble furniture
- Pack bedding
- Quickly pack up any remaining items, like laundry
- Walk the movers through the home and give instructions
- Sign the bill of lading
“Essentials” Box Checklist
- Snacks
- All-purpose pan or pot
- Kettle or coffee maker
- A few plates
- Mugs
- Utensils and all-purpose cutting knife
- Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, wrench, box cutter…)
- Trash bags
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Toys for kids
- Phone chargers
- Dish soap, sponges, and dish towels
- First aid kit
- All purpose cleaner
- Pet supplies
- Flashlight and/or candles
- Basic tools
- Toiletries
- Address with the post office
- Employer
- Financial institutions (banks, credit card companies, accountants, etc.)
- Utility providers (cable, phone, internet, electricity, gas, etc.)
- Health care providers
- Insurance providers (health, life, car, etc.)
- Children’s schools
- Service providers (babysitters, tutors, housekeepers, etc.)
- Veterinarians
- Alma mater
- Magazines and other subscriptions delivered to your home
- Pharmacy
- Social security
- Professional organizations and clubs
- Air miles and other rewards programs
- Friends and family
2-3 Months Before Moving
- Schedule estimates with moving companies; choose a mover
- Start sorting and purging belongings
- Organize and transfer school and medical records
- Start packing some items you use rarely
- Get moving supplies and boxes
- Start packing
- Sort out valuables to move yourself
- Do change of address
- Choose new medical and financial providers, if necessary
- Research childcare providers and schedule interviews
- Research vehicle registration and insurance requirements in new home
- Confirm moving arrangements
- Obtain important documents
- Refill prescriptions
- Empty safe deposit box
- Pack suitcases and essentials box
- Make travel arrangements
- Arrange for childcare or pet care on moving day
- Use up food and cleaning items which you can’t move
- Schedule utility shutoff and turn-on at residences
- Get money for moving expenses
- Defrost fridge and freezer
- Check utilities are scheduled for shutoff and turn-on
- Finish packing