Moving to a new home—whether across town or across the country—can feel overwhelming. Between choosing a reliable mover, sorting through years of accumulated belongings, and coordinating all the logistics, it’s easy for important tasks to slip through the cracks.
A comprehensive moving checklist helps you stay organized, eliminate last-minute stress, and make sure nothing gets left behind. The checklist below breaks your move into manageable phases, recommends deadlines, and provides expert tips so your transition is smooth from start to finish.
- Pre-Move Planning: 4–6 Weeks Before Moving Day
Starting early is the single best way to avoid a last-minute scramble. In this phase you’ll book your movers, sort through belongings, and lay out your budget.
- Book Your Movers
- Research and compare at least three licensed moving companies
- Confirm availability, get written quotes, and review insurance options
- Reserve your preferred date with a deposit to lock in pricing
- Declutter & Donate
- Tackle one room at a time: closets, garage, attic
- Sort items into “Keep,” “Donate/Sell,” and “Recycle/Trash”
- Schedule a charity pick-up or plan a garage sale
- Set Your Moving Budget
Estimate all major expenses so you won’t face surprises:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
| Professional Movers | $500 – $2,500 |
| Packing Supplies | $50 – $200 |
| Storage Rental | $75 – $250/month |
| Cleaning Service | $100 – $300 |
- Notify Landlord or HOA
- Check notice period (usually 30–60 days)
- Arrange return of security deposit
- Confirm any move-out requirements (elevator booking, key handoff)
- Organize Your Move: 2–3 Weeks Before Moving Day
With the big decisions made, it’s time to tackle logistics and communication so nothing falls through the cracks.
- Pack Non-Essentials First
- Seasonal items, books, home décor, and off-season clothing
- Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or towels
- Label Boxes Systematically
- Include destination room (e.g., “Kitchen”) and contents summary
- Add “FRAGILE” or “THIS SIDE UP” where needed
- Update Your Address
- Submit a change-of-address form with USPS
- Notify banks, utilities, and subscription services
- Inform friends, family, and professional contacts
- Schedule Utility Transfers
- Contact providers to transfer or cancel services on move-out and move-in dates
- Set up internet, cable, and security systems at your new address
- Final Countdown: 1 Week Before Moving
This is your last opportunity to tie up loose ends so moving day goes off without a hitch.
- Pack an Essentials Box
- Toiletries, chargers, medications
- A change of clothes and basic kitchenware
- Confirm Moving Day Details
- Re-verify date, time, and crew size with Mighty Moving
- Reserve elevator or parking space if required
- Deep-Clean Your Old Home
- Wipe down appliances, bathrooms, and floors
- Hire a cleaning service or enlist help from friends/family
- Prepare Appliances
- Defrost the freezer 24–48 hours in advance
- Secure washing machine hoses and disconnect gas lines (if applicable)
- Moving Day: What To Expect
On the big day, clear communication and a systematic approach keep everything on track.
- Meet the Mighty Moving Crew
- Be present when they arrive to review inventory and floor plans
- Provide gate codes, parking permits, and any elevator reservations
- Follow a Final Walk-Through Checklist
| Task | Notes |
| Check all closets & drawers | Use a physical or digital list |
| Inspect ceilings & walls | Look for any damage or stains |
| Test light switches & outlets | Ensure nothing is left plugged in |
- Load Strategically
- Movers load heavy furniture first, then boxed items
- Keep pathways clear to avoid accidents
- Protect Your Valuables
- Carry passports, jewelry, and cash with you
- Keep chargers, medications, and snacks in a “Day-Of” bag
- Settling Into Your New Home
Once the truck departs, focus on turning a house into your home.
- Inspect for Transit Damage
- Unpack high-value or fragile items first
- Photograph any issues and notify Mighty Moving within 24 hours
- Prioritize Unpacking
- Kitchen: Essential appliances, dishes, and pantry staples
- Bedroom: Bed, linens, and personal items
- Bathroom: Towels, toiletries, and shower curtain
- Re-Establish Utilities & Services
- Confirm electricity, water, gas, and internet are fully functional
- Locate fuse box, main water valve, and thermostat
- Familiarize Yourself with the Neighborhood
- Identify nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and medical clinic
- Introduce yourself to neighbors and local community groups
What Should I Not Forget to Do When Moving?
- Return library books, rented equipment, and borrowed items
- Transfer or cancel recurring memberships and subscriptions
- Collect spare keys, garage door openers, and security codes
- Defrost refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving
How Long Does It Take to Pack for a Move?
| Home Size | Estimated Packing Time | Tips to Accelerate Packing |
| Studio/1-BR | 1–2 days | Pack off-season items first |
| 2-BR | 3–4 days | Enlist friends for a “packing party” |
| 3-BR+ | 5–7 days | Hire professional packers for fragile items |
When Should I Start Changing My Address?
- 2–3 Weeks Before Move: File USPS forwarding form
- 1 Week Before Move: Notify banks, credit cards, and insurers
- Move Week: Update subscriptions, employer records, and online profiles
How Can I Make Moving Less Stressful?
- Break tasks into daily to-do lists with clear priorities
- Delegate rooms or tasks to family members or friends
- Schedule short breaks and celebrate small milestones
What Do Most People Forget on Moving Day?
- Chargers still plugged into walls or electronics
- Shower curtains, bath mats, and toilet-seat lids
- Food in pantry/freezer—label perishables and dispose properly
- Pets’ supplies and outdoor gear stored in garages
Conclusion
A well-structured checklist transforms moving from stressful to seamless. By following this phased approach, leveraging professional movers like Mighty Moving, and integrating key reminders directly into your timeline, you’ll arrive at your new home feeling organized, confident, and ready to start the next chapter.