Moving to a new home can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience. There are many tasks and details to keep track of, and it’s important to have a clear plan in place to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. This ultimate moving timeline provides a step-by-step guide to help you plan and prepare for your move, starting 8 weeks before the big day.
8 weeks before the move:
- Hire a moving company and set a move date.
- Notify your employer, school, and utility companies of your impending move.
- Declutter your home and decide what items you’ll be bringing with you.
- Start researching and obtaining quotes for packing materials, storage units, and insurance.
- Create a detailed budget for your move.
- Create an inventory list of items you plan on moving.
- Research new schools, daycare providers, or other services you may need in your new area.
7 weeks before the move:
- Confirm your moving date and details with the moving company.
- Start packing non-essential items.
- Research and select new insurance providers if necessary.
- Cancel or transfer any regular services such as cleaning or landscaping.
- Update your address for your mail, bank, and any other necessary accounts.
- Arrange transportation for larger items, such as furniture and appliances.
6 weeks before the move:
- Notify your post office of your change of address.
- Pack any seasonal items you won’t be using before the move.
- Have a garage sale or donate items you no longer need.
- Start researching and arranging for temporary or long-term storage solutions if needed.
- If you’re hiring movers, schedule a walk-through of your home to assess their moving needs.
5 weeks before the move:
- Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration with your new address.
- Schedule time off work for the move.
- Disconnect any electronics and appliances that will be moved.
- Notify your doctor and dentist of your upcoming move and request copies of your medical records.
- Research and compare moving and storage insurance options.
4 weeks before the move:
- Arrange for the disconnection of any utility services such as gas, electricity, and water.
- Make travel arrangements for you and your family if necessary.
- Pack up all remaining items in your home.
- Label boxes with their contents and the room they belong in.
- Update your contacts with your new address and phone number.
3 weeks before the move:
- Schedule a final walk-through of your home with the moving company.
- Arrange for the reconnection of any utility services in your new home.
- Transfer or cancel any home security services.
- Pack a box of essentials for your first night in the new home.
- Confirm your moving date with the moving company.
2 weeks before the move:
- Confirm any travel arrangements for you and your family.
- Confirm arrangements for temporary or long-term storage solutions.
- Make sure all items are packed and ready for the move.
- Confirm all details and final costs with the moving company.
- Update any important documents, such as passports and visas, with your new address.
1 week before the move:
- Pack a box with items you’ll need during the first few days in your new home.
- Disconnect any appliances and electronics that will be moved.
- Confirm any necessary arrangements with your new school or daycare provider.
- Confirm arrangements for transportation of large items, such as furniture and appliances.
- Pack a separate box with any valuable items, such as jewelry or important documents.
The day of the move:
- Double check that all items are packed and ready to go.
- Disconnect any remaining utilities and appliances.
- Make sure to empty out all refrigerators, freezers, and pantries.
- Meet with the moving company to review the move plan and provide any necessary instructions.
- Supervise the packing and loading of items onto the moving truck.
Arrival at the new home:
- Review and check the inventory list with the moving company.
- Unpack and set up any necessary appliances and electronics.
- Begin unloading boxes and setting up your new home.
- Arrange for the reconnection of utilities and services.
- Start exploring your new neighborhood and community.
Following the move:
- Unpack all remaining items and settle into your new home.
- Register with any new schools, daycare providers, or other services as needed.
- Update your contacts with your new address and phone number.
- Register to vote in your new area if necessary.
- Start making new connections and building relationships in your new community.
- Check in with the moving company to ensure that all items have arrived safely and no damages have been incurred during the move.
- Start organizing and putting away items in their designated spaces.
- Schedule any necessary maintenance or repairs for your new home.
- Start exploring new local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Take time to reflect on the move and celebrate your new beginning in your new home.
The moving timeline includes tasks such as hiring a moving company, decluttering your home, obtaining quotes for packing materials and insurance, updating your address, packing up your belongings, and settling into your new home. It also includes important reminders such as updating your driver’s license and vehicle registration, arranging for the disconnection and reconnection of utilities, and making travel arrangements. Following the move, the timeline also includes tasks such as exploring your new neighborhood, updating your contacts, and organizing your new home. With this comprehensive timeline, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have covered all of your bases and are prepared for a successful move.