Two months (6 - 8 weeks before moving)

• Create a moving binder or digital moving folder (include this printable checklist)
• Research and get estimates from movers
• Donate or toss items you no longer use
• Create a room-by-room inventory

One month

• Get packing materials (boxes, tape, stuffing/padding, markers, etc.) and start packing non-essentials
• Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new residence
• Transfer your Direct Energy plan to your new home.
• If you don't have an energy plan, sign up with us!
• Schedule transfer of records and get copies of any documents needed (medical, school, etc.)
• Create a change of address checklist and have your mail forwarded (banks, physicians, memberships, etc.)
• Reserve your moving date with the moving company, truck rental company, or friends/ family
• Get moving insurance
• Make childcare/pet sitter arrangements for moving day if needed

One week

• Continue packing and clean as you go
• Pack and label items separately that you will need right away at your new place
• Pack a suitcase with enough clothes and personal items for a few days
• Eat your perishable food
• Take furniture apart if necessary (desks, shelves, etc.)
• Make an action plan for the day of the move
• Plan your new furniture layout
• Defrost your freezer and clean the fridge (3 – 4 days before moving)
• Deep clean your current home

Two days

• Confirm all moving details and ensure you have all of the necessary paperwork
• Pack a bag with water bottles, pen/paper, snacks, documents, and essentials
• Set aside boxes/items that you are moving yourself
• Ensure essential tools are handy (screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, tape, etc.)
• Verify utilities are working - especially power, water, heating, and cooling
• Make an emergency safety plan

Moving day

• Review your emergency safety plan with everyone helping with the move (watch out for tripping hazards like rugs and cords)
• Perform an initial inspection of your furniture, note all damages (take photographs)
• Walk through and check for things left behind (look behind doors and open drawers)
• Offer drinks and snacks, especially if your helpers are volunteers
• Begin unpacking room-by-room, starting with the kitchen, bathroom, and other essentials

After move (1 - 3 days after moving)

• Check for damages while unpacking - be aware of the deadline for insurance claims
• Replace locks if necessary and make at least two copies of your new keys
• Complete your change of address checklist
• After you are moved in, update your home inventory, including photos of rooms
• Update your renter's insurance or homeowner's insurance if needed