Create a Moving Folder
- Keep all important documents, receipts, and estimates in one place.
Budget Your Move
- Determine your moving budget, including packing supplies, movers, and any unexpected expenses.
Research Moving Companies
- Get quotes from at least three moving companies. Check their reviews and ratings.
Sort and Declutter
- Decide what to keep, donate, or sell. Begin purging items you no longer need.
Notify Important Parties
- Inform your landlord, employer, and utility companies of your move.
Finalize Moving Company
- Book your moving company or truck rental. Confirm the date and time of your move.
Gather Packing Supplies
- Purchase boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers.
Begin Packing
- Start with non-essential items. Label boxes with their contents and destination room.
Transfer Medical Records
- Arrange to have your medical records sent to your new healthcare providers.
Update Address
- Fill out a change-of-address form with the post office. Notify banks, credit card companies, and subscriptions.
Plan Utilities Setup
- Schedule disconnection of utilities at your old home and connection at your new home.
Confirm Moving Details
- Reconfirm the moving date, time, and other details with your movers.
Pack Essentials Box
- Pack a box with essential items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and snacks.
Service Your Car
- If you’re moving long-distance, ensure your car is in good working order.
Finish Packing
- Complete packing all items except for essentials.
Clean Your Home
- Do a thorough cleaning of your old home, or hire a cleaning service.
Dispose of Hazardous Materials
- Safely dispose of any hazardous materials that movers won’t transport, like paint or chemicals.
Prepare Appliances
- Defrost the refrigerator and freezer. Disconnect and prepare other appliances for the move.
Take Inventory
- Make a list of all your boxes and items. Check them off as they are loaded and unloaded.
Supervise the Move
- Be present during the move to answer any questions and ensure everything is handled properly.
Final Walkthrough
- Do a final walkthrough of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
Settle In
- Begin unpacking essentials first. Take your time to organize your new space.
Unpack Methodically
- Unpack one room at a time, starting with the kitchen and bedrooms.
Update Your Address
- Ensure all parties have your new address. Verify changes with your bank, employer, and other important contacts.
Explore Your New Area
- Get to know your new neighborhood. Locate grocery stores, healthcare providers, and other essential services.
Review Your Move
- Reflect on your moving experience. Leave a review for your movers and note any feedback for future moves.
Moving into a new rental is an exciting adventure, but it can also be a complex and stressful process. To help ensure your move goes smoothly, we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to guide you through every step. Follow this timeline to stay organized and stress-free.