Moving House Checklist

4–6 Weeks Before

Declutter: Sort through each room and donate, sell, or toss what you don't need. The less you move, the easier it is.
Book your movers or truck: Reserve well in advance, especially in busy seasons.
Start collecting boxes: Gather boxes, tape, and packing supplies.
Notify utilities: Arrange to transfer electricity, gas, water, internet, and any subscriptions.
Arrange school/work: If moving for a new job or area, sort out the logistics early.

2–3 Weeks Before

Change your address: Update your address with banks, insurers, the post office, subscriptions, and employers.
Pack room by room: Label each box clearly with its room and contents.
Pack an essentials box: A first-day box with toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, basic tools, and snacks.
Prepare appliances: Plan how to disconnect and move large appliances and electronics.
Arrange a pet / plant plan: Plan how to move pets and plants safely on moving day.

Moving Day

Protect floors and walls: Lay down coverings to avoid scuffs.
Label heavy items and fragile items: Make them obvious to movers.
Keep essentials with you: Valuables, important documents, and keys stay with you, not in the truck.
Confirm the new address: Share directions and parking notes with movers.
Do a final walkthrough: Check closets, cabinets, and every room before the truck leaves.

After You Arrive

Task	Why It Matters
Unpack the essentials box first	You can function comfortably on day one
Check utilities are working	Catch issues early and report them
Change locks / get new keys	Security in a home with unknown previous access
Locate shutoffs	Know where water and gas shutoffs are in case of emergency
Update your address one last time	Forward any mail that still arrives

Common Moving Mistakes

Underestimating how much you own: Declutter early to save time and money.
Packing heavy items in big boxes: Large boxes full of books get too heavy. Use small boxes for heavy things.
Not labeling boxes: It costs you hours when unpacking.
Leaving packing to the last minute: It's more stressful and error-prone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I start packing?

Start 4–6 weeks before if you can. Pack the things you use least first, and leave everyday essentials for last.

What should go in my essentials box?

Toiletries, a couple of changes of clothes, medication, phone chargers, basic tools, snacks, water, and important documents — everything you need for your first night.

How do I move with pets safely?

Keep pets in a secure, quiet room on moving day, or with someone you trust. Move their food, water, and familiar items first so they have a comfortable spot in the new home.