## Here’s the bottom line: Whether you’re moving across the street or all the way across the country, it’s important to plan strategically for your move. A moving checklist includes everything from decluttering and packing to budgeting, choosing a mover, and setting up at your new home. We’ve created a comprehensive moving checklist with a timeline and practical resources to streamline your upcoming move. ## Moving checklist - [8 weeks before moving day](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#8) - [6 weeks before moving day](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#6) - [4 weeks before moving day](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#4) - [2 weeks before moving day](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#2) - [Moving week!](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#week) - [Moving day!](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-checklist/#day) ✏️ [Download our free printable moving checklist](https://www.movebuddha.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Printable-Moving-Checklist-PDF.pdf) ## Eight weeks before moving day It can seem early, but it’s important to start planning your move about **two months in advance**. During this time, evaluate moving services, compare costs, and consider your budget. ### Research moving services One of the first steps in planning your move is to research the types of moving services available. - **Full-service:** The [best moving companies](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/best-moving-companies/) and [best long-distance movers](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/best-interstate-moving-companies/) handle loading, unloading, and transportation, but at a higher price point. - **DIY:** If you’re on a tight budget, [moving truck rentals](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/best-rental-trucks/) and [moving container companies](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/best-moving-container-companies/) are more affordable, but require you to do the loading, unloading, and, occasionally, the driving. ### Get moving estimates No matter where you’re moving, having a ballpark estimate can help you stay within your budget. While every company’s quoting process is different, our [moving cost calculator](https://www.movebuddha.com/moving-cost-calculator/) lets you compare multiple estimates at once and thoroughly assess moving expenses. ### Set a moving budget Here are five simple steps for creating your moving budget: - **Estimate costs.** Some companies like [U-Pack](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/u-pack-review/) will provide quick quotes online. - **List expenses.** Common fees include rental trucks and [packing materials](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/packing-materials/). - **Account for hidden fees.** Consider costs like homeowners insurance, security deposits, and fuel. - **Anticipate the cost of settling in.** You may spend more money on kitchenware, furniture, and takeout before feeling at home. - **Track expenses.** Use a spreadsheet to keep track of spending and potential tax deductible items. ### Other to-do items Once you’ve researched moving companies, compiled and compared quotes, and created a moving budget, there are a few other tasks to take care of eight weeks before your move: - Research new banks, doctors, and schools - Create a moving binder to keep track of receipts - Protect your move by looking up your rights through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration - Give your landlord notice - Find a roommate - Explain the move to your kids - Host a garage sale ## Six weeks before moving day Once you’ve researched moving services, compared costs, and set up a budget, here are your next moving prep tasks. ### Declutter and organize You can [declutter and organize](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/decluttering-for-a-move/) your belongings with these steps: - **Decide what items to keep.** Know what you’re not willing to part with and keep track of it. - **Decide what items to sell or donate.** Track donations for potential tax deductions. - **Identify fragile and special items.** Note any furniture or antiques that need special attention. - **Digitize documents.** Shred or scan unnecessary paperwork to save space. - **Measure furniture.** Determine if you’ll be moving larger or older furniture. ### Prep for packing Now that you’ve decluttered, it’s important to prepare for packing: - **Make a packing schedule.** Determine how much you’ll pack over the weeks ahead. - **Research packing tips.** Consider our [top moving hacks](https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/top-moving-hacks) for efficient packing. - **Label boxes.** Labeling in advance keeps you organized. ### Measure doorways and staircases Measure doorways and staircases to ensure your furniture will fit into your new home. ### Other to-do items Once you’ve prepared for packing, here are a few other tasks to get done six weeks before your move: - Check moving companies for registered carrier ID numbers to avoid scams - Request time off from work for the move - Notify schools of your move - Choose new schools for kids - Service your vehicle ## Four weeks before moving day Here’s what you need to do one month out from your move. ### Choose a mover and confirm your booking When choosing moving services: - Get at least three written estimates with detailed inventories. - Verify licensing and insurance by checking each mover’s USDOT and MC numbers. - Require an on-site survey to accurately assess what’s being moved. ### Start or continue packing Go back to your packing supplies and refer to your moving schedule. Start packing non-essential items first. ### Get your documents in order Organize your essential documents, including: - Passports - Birth certificates - Financial documents - Moving documents like your contract with a moving company ### Set up new service providers Before moving, set up utilities for your new home, and change your address at the post office. ## Two weeks before moving day At 14 days out, here are your final tasks: ### Clear storage units and safe deposit boxes Clean out any local storage units or deposit boxes you may have. ### Return borrowed items Return items borrowed from friends or family. ### Clean up Deep clean your old home to prepare for the new tenants or owners. ### Send out moving announcements Notify friends and family of your new address via private message or email. ### Other to-do items Prep meals, refill prescriptions, backup your computer, and get a babysitter for moving day. ## The week of the move ### Finish packing Pack essentials and disassemble remaining furniture to finalize your move. ### Get your home ready for moving day Prepare your old home for the movers and utility disconnections. ## Moving day ### Meet, greet, and supervise movers Welcome your movers, ensure they have the necessary paperwork, and offer them refreshments. ### Take inventory of your belongings Check your inventory list and ensure everything is accounted for once delivered. ### Start unpacking Begin with your essentials box, unpack room by room, and assemble furniture as necessary. ## Post-moving day tips ### Finish unpacking Pace yourself and complete unpacking, change locks, and get to know your new neighborhood. ### Thank everyone who helped you move Consider sending a card or small gift to appreciate their help.