The Ultimate Moving Checklist: Renters & Homeowners​

General:

• Announce Your Move: Let family, friends, and services (like subscriptions and mail forwarding) know your new address.
• Gather Estimates: Compare moving companies if you’re hiring one.
  • U-Haul
  • American Van Lines
  • Two Men and a Truck
• Declutter: Donate, sell, or recycle what you don’t need.
  • Goodwill
• Collect Packing Supplies: Get boxes, tape, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and labels.
  • U-Haul
• Start Packing: Pack non-essentials first, room by room.
  • Tips on packing
• Label Clearly: Note the room, contents, and unpacking priority.
• Organize Important Documents: Keep track of moving estimates, receipts, and new home info.

Renters:

• Review Your Lease: Know your lease termination notice and any move-out fees.
  • Tips on moving out before your lease is up
• Final Walk-Through: Inspect with your landlord and document any existing damage.

Homeowners:

• Sell or Rent Your House: If selling, finalize with your realtor.
  • Find a realtor near you
• Transfer Utilities: Schedule disconnection at your old place and connection at the new one.
• Change of Address: Notify the U.S. Postal Service at USPS.com.
• Complete Home Repairs: Finish minor repairs before moving out.

2-3 Weeks Before:

• Confirm Moving Arrangements: Finalize with movers if you have them.
• Pack Essentials Bag: Include toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes for easy access.
  • Travel checklist
• Disassemble Furniture: Improve space efficiency and ease of moving.
• Schedule Cleaning Services (Optional): Consider professional cleaning for your old or new home.
  • Find Cleaning Services on Angi’s List

The Week Before:

• Forward Medical Records: If changing doctors, transfer your records.
• Update Prescriptions: Ensure you have enough medication for the move.
• Arrange Parking: Secure permits for moving trucks if needed.
• Prepare Cash for Moving Day: Have cash for tolls, tips, or unexpected expenses.

Moving Day:

• Double-Check Inventory: Ensure all boxes and furniture are accounted for before movers leave.
• Walk-Through with Movers: Point out fragile items and rooms needing special care.
• Stay Hydrated and Fed: Keep snacks and drinks available for everyone helping.

Post-Move (First Week):

• Inspect Your New Home: Check for any damages and report them immediately if renting.
  • Home Inspection Checklist
• Connect Utilities: Confirm all utilities are functioning.
• Update Accounts: Change your address on bank accounts, insurance policies, etc.
• Unpack Essentials First: Focus on necessities like toiletries, medications, and kitchenware.
• Return Packing Supplies: If you rented boxes, follow the provider’s return instructions.

Additional Tips:

• Create a Moving Binder: Organize important documents, receipts, and checklists for easy reference.
  • Tips on creating a moving binder
• Document with Photos/Videos: Record the condition of your old and new home before and after moving.
• Insure Valuables: Consider extra insurance for valuable items during the move.
• Relax and Celebrate: Moving is a big achievement. Take a moment to unwind and enjoy your new space.

Stay organized with this checklist, and your move will be smooth and stress-free, whether you’re a renter or a homeowner.