Moving Timeline Checklist - Stay Organized
Complete week-by-week moving checklist with room-by-room breakdown and downloadable PDFs to keep you organized throughout your move.
- 8-Week Timeline
- Room-by-Room Guide
- Downloadable PDFs
Download Your Moving Checklist
Get a printable PDF checklist sent to your email
8-Week Moving Timeline
Follow this timeline to stay organized and avoid last-minute stress
8 Weeks Before - Initial Planning
High Priority6 Weeks Before - Booking & Preparation
High Priority4 Weeks Before - Mid-Move Preparation
Medium Priority2 Weeks Before - Final Preparations
High Priority1 Week Before - Last Week Tasks
Critical PriorityMoving Day - Moving Day Checklist
Critical PriorityRoom-by-Room Packing Timeline
When to pack each room and helpful tips for each area
Kitchen
- •Pack non-essential dishes
- •Use up perishable food
- •Pack small appliances
- •Clean refrigerator
- •Pack cooking utensils
- •Label fragile items
Tip: Pack plates vertically, wrap glasses individually
Living Room
- •Pack decorative items
- •Disconnect electronics
- •Pack books and media
- •Wrap furniture
- •Pack lamps
- •Clean carpets
Tip: Take photos of electronics before disconnecting
Bedroom
- •Pack non-essential clothes
- •Pack jewelry and valuables
- •Pack bedding
- •Pack personal items
- •Clean closets
- •Pack shoes
Tip: Keep one week's worth of clothes accessible
Bathroom
- •Pack toiletries last
- •Pack towels
- •Clean bathroom
- •Pack cleaning supplies
- •Pack medicine
- •Pack personal care items
Tip: Pack toilet paper and hand soap separately
Garage/Storage
- •Sort through stored items
- •Pack tools
- •Pack seasonal items
- •Clean garage
- •Pack outdoor items
- •Dispose of hazardous materials
Tip: Check local regulations for hazardous waste disposal
Post-Move Checklist
Tasks to complete after you've moved into your new home
First Day
- Unpack essentials box
- Set up beds
- Connect utilities
- Check for damage
- Take photos of new home
- Meet neighbors
- Find local services
First Week
- Unpack kitchen items
- Set up internet/cable
- Update driver's license
- Register vehicle
- Enroll children in school
- Find new doctors
- Update address everywhere
First Month
- Unpack remaining boxes
- Decorate new home
- Explore new area
- Join local groups
- Update insurance
- File change of address
- Settle into routine
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about moving timelines and checklists
How far in advance should I start planning my move?
Start planning 8 weeks before your move date. This gives you time to research movers, get quotes, declutter, and handle all the necessary arrangements without feeling rushed.
What should I pack first when moving?
Start with non-essential items like seasonal decorations, books, and items you won't need for 6-8 weeks. Pack essentials last and keep them easily accessible.
How do I create a moving day essentials box?
Pack a box with items you'll need immediately: toiletries, change of clothes, phone chargers, important documents, basic cleaning supplies, and snacks.
What should I do with food before moving?
Use up perishable food in the weeks before moving. Donate non-perishable items to food banks. Dispose of opened items and pack unopened non-perishables.
How do I handle utilities when moving?
Schedule disconnection for the day after you move out and connection for the day before you move in. This ensures utilities are available when you need them.
What documents should I keep with me during the move?
Keep important documents with you: ID, moving contract, insurance papers, medical records, financial documents, and any items needed for immediate access.
How do I prepare my new home before moving in?
Clean the new home, change locks if needed, check utilities, measure rooms for furniture, and do any necessary repairs before moving day.
What should I do if I'm behind on my moving timeline?
Prioritize essential tasks like booking movers and utilities. Consider hiring help for packing or cleaning. Focus on what's absolutely necessary for moving day.
Ready to Start Your Move?
Use our checklist to stay organized. Get quotes from professional movers to make your transition smooth and stress-free.