The Complete Moving Checklist (Printable)

8 weeks out

Decide on your timeline and, if you're buying or selling, request an agent in each market
Get written quotes from several moving companies or price out a truck rental
Start a moving folder (digital or paper) for quotes, receipts, and contracts
Walk through every room and decide what to sell, donate, or toss
Ask your children's current schools how to transfer records, and look up enrollment steps for the new district

6 weeks out

Book your movers or truck and confirm dates in writing
Collect boxes, tape, labels, and packing paper
Request copies of medical, dental, and veterinary records
Use up food and cleaning supplies you don't want to move
If you rent, check your lease for the notice you must give

4 weeks out

File your change of address with USPS (usps.com or at the post office)
Schedule utility shut-off at the old home and start-up at the new one: electric, gas, water, trash, internet
Update your address with your bank, employer, subscriptions, and other accounts
Start packing rooms you rarely use and label every box with its room
If you're buying, schedule the home inspection and keep track of contract deadlines with your agent

2 weeks out

Confirm moving-day details and arrival window with your movers
Arrange childcare and pet care for moving day
Plan how to move valuables, documents, and medications yourself
Service your car if you're driving a long distance
Return borrowed items and pick up dry cleaning and repairs

Moving week

Pack an essentials bag: chargers, toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, basic tools
Defrost the freezer and clean out the fridge
Confirm the final walkthrough and closing or move-in time with your agent
Back up important files and keep IDs and closing documents with you
Finish packing and set aside cleaning supplies for the old home

Moving day

Do the final walkthrough before closing (or before you get the keys)
Check each room, closet, and cabinet before the movers leave the old home
Record meter readings at the old and new home
Keep the inventory list and check boxes off as they're unloaded
Make sure you have every key, garage opener, and access code

First week in the new home

Change or rekey the exterior locks
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Find the main water shut-off and the electrical panel
Check the home's systems: replace the HVAC filter and look over the water heater and any water softener or filter (the Home Systems Guide has simple how-tos)
Update the address on your driver's license and vehicle registration; check your new state's deadlines on its official DMV site
Register to vote at your new address
Enroll children in school and set up new doctors
If it's your primary residence, look up whether your county offers a homestead exemption and its deadline

General moving tips, not legal advice. Deadlines for licenses, registration, and exemptions vary by state and county; check the official site for your new location.

Educational information only — not legal, tax, financial, or lending advice. Rules and amounts change. Confirm details with the appropriate official source, your own tax or legal advisor, and the licensed real estate agent you choose. We do not refer mortgage lenders, insurance agents, or other non-real-estate professionals.