Moving Checklist: A Helpful Guide to Relocating

The countdown to moving day is on. Here’s a list of moving-related tasks, organized by schedule, to help take some of the stress out of your move.

30+ Days In Advance:

• Contact your insurance company to transfer your home or rental coverage to your new address.
• Book a moving service.
  • If you’re moving during the summer or on a weekend, it can pay to book as early as possible.
  • As you shop around for the best deal, check to see whether your mover has a current business license and insurance coverage (as well as what it covers).
  • If you plan to sell any furniture or other possessions during your move, begin to catalog them. Then, contact potential resale shops or post your listings online.

Two Weeks in Advance:

• Arrange to shut off utilities at your old address and start them at your new home.
  • Your old service provider may not operate in your new location, so give yourself time to work through any necessary changes.
• Make a list of contacts you need to send updated address information to, including:
  • Your employer, the IRS, and state tax agencies.
  • Your bank(s), credit card issuer(s), and loan issuer(s).
  • The Social Security Administration
  • Your auto, health, and any other insurance providers.
  • Doctors, lawyers, schools, and any professional offices you deal with regularly.
  • Online shopping services, memberships, and subscriptions.
• Come up with a packing plan and begin organizing.
  • Some people prefer to pack now and sort later, others like to organize by room.
  • Wrapping fragile items with clothes or towels can help you save space, as well as money.
  • Make sure to set aside the things you need daily, and pack those last. For instance, a week’s worth of clothing and some kitchen basics.

The Final Week/When You Arrive:

• Update your new address with the relevant contacts you listed previously. You can change your address with the U.S. Postal Service online for $1.00. You can also pay more for premium mail forwarding services.
• Change your address on your driver’s license. Depending on your state, you may need to do this in person, or you may be able to do it online. You may also be able to update your voter registration at the same time.
• Update your car registration.

Read more tips for moving on a tight budget.