Moving Tips

8 Weeks Before

• Create a moving binder or digital folder to keep all your moving-related documents in one place.
• Research moving companies and get at least three in-home estimates for an accurate quote.
• Begin researching your new community (schools, healthcare providers, local amenities).
• Create a preliminary budget for moving expenses, including packing supplies, moving services, travel costs, and unexpected expenses.

6 Weeks Before

• Book your moving company and confirm the date, services, and any special requirements.
• Begin sorting through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
• Start collecting free boxes from local stores or purchase moving supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers).
• If moving long-distance, make travel arrangements for yourself and your family.

4 Weeks Before

• Begin packing items you don't use regularly, such as seasonal items, books, and decorative pieces.
• Create an inventory of valuable items, taking photos and noting their condition.
• Submit a change of address form with the postal service (can be done online).
• Notify important parties of your address change (employer, insurance companies, financial institutions, subscription services).

2 Weeks Before

• Schedule utility disconnections at your current home and connections at your new home.
• Confirm details with your moving company and ensure you have all necessary paperwork.
• Arrange for cleaning services for your old and/or new home if needed.
• Begin using up perishable food items and cleaning supplies that can't be moved.

1 Week Before

• Pack a "first night" box with essentials you'll need immediately upon arrival (toiletries, change of clothes, basic kitchen items, medications).
• Disassemble furniture that requires it and keep hardware in labeled bags taped to the corresponding pieces.
• Confirm travel arrangements and make sure your car is serviced if you're driving to your new home.
• Withdraw cash for tipping movers and any unexpected expenses during the move.

First Day in Your New Home

• Check that all utilities are working properly (electricity, water, heating/cooling, internet).
• Unpack essentials first: bedding, bathroom necessities, basic kitchen items, and children's favorite toys.
• Locate and test smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
• Identify the main water valve, circuit breaker, and gas shutoff (if applicable).

First Week

• Prioritize unpacking rooms based on necessity (kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms first).
• Check for any damaged items and file claims with your moving company if necessary.
• Update your driver's license and vehicle registration if you've moved to a new state.
• Locate essential services in your new neighborhood (grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals).

First Month

• Register to vote in your new location.
• Find new healthcare providers and transfer medical records.
• Explore your new community and introduce yourself to neighbors.
• Consider changing locks for security if you've purchased a previously owned home.

Moving with Children

Moving can be particularly challenging for children. Here are some tips to make the transition easier:

• Involve children in the moving process in age-appropriate ways, such as packing their own toys.
• Maintain routines as much as possible during the transition.
• Visit the new neighborhood and school before moving day if possible.
• Pack a special box of comfort items that stays with your child during the move.

Moving with Pets

Pets can experience stress during a move. Here's how to make it easier for them:

• Keep pets away from the action on moving day, preferably with a friend or at a boarding facility.
• Transport pets in your own vehicle rather than the moving truck.
• Set up a familiar space with their bed, toys, and food/water dishes as soon as you arrive at your new home.
• Update pet microchip information and tags with your new address.

For more detailed information, see our guide on Moving with Pets.