A step-by-step plan for moving to another state

Use this checklist to organize your long-distance move week by week so you know what to handle, when to handle it and what to prioritize before moving day.

8+ weeks before your move

At this stage, the big decisions about your move (where you’re going, how much you can spend, when you want to move) are typically already in motion. Now it’s time to turn those plans into action.

Things to do

• Start requesting quotes from long-distance movers
• Create a folder (physical or digital) to store estimates, receipts and paperwork
• Begin using up pantry items, frozen food and household supplies

 

Start thinking about

• Whether you’ll drive or fly to your new home
• Vehicle transportation needs
• How much packing material you’ll need
• Parking or HOA restrictions at either location
• If you’ll need to add storage to your move

 

6 weeks before 

The fewer items you take to another state, the easier and more affordable the move becomes. Now is the time to sort through everything before packing begins.

• Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate or sell
• Schedule donation pickups or plan a garage sale
• Figure out a plan for moving specialty items like antiques or pianos

 

Pro Tip: Long-distance movers may have restrictions on hazardous materials, perishables and certain household items, so review those guidelines early. View U-Pack’s do not ship list for details.

4 weeks before

This stage is about solidifying plans and starting to pack.

• Reserve your moving service to secure your dates and equipment
• Schedule elevator or loading dock reservations if moving from an apartment
• Arrange utility shutoff and setup dates 
• Book travel accommodations if driving cross country (get tips for planning your drive)
• Start packing less-used items like décor and seasonal clothing

 

Check out these packing tips for a complete how-to guide.

2 weeks before 

Your move should start feeling more structured this week. Focus on tying up loose ends and preparing for moving week.

Tasks to complete

• Update your address with banks, insurance providers and subscriptions
• Transfer prescriptions and medical records (refill any prescriptions you’ll need during the move!)
• Request school and veterinarian records
• Service your vehicle before a long drive
• Continue packing non-essential items
• Pack an essentials bag with things you’ll need during the move*

 

*For long-distance moves, it may take several days for belongings to arrive, so plan as though you’ll be living out of a suitcase temporarily. Don’t forget things like phone chargers, medication and pet supplies.

1 week before the move

The final week should focus on preparation, confirmations and making moving day easier.

• Get these moving day supplies
• Finish packing remaining rooms
• Prepare the house for moving crews
• Clean out freezers
• Make arrangements for kids and pets
• Reserve parking spaces if necessary
• Know what to do if rain is in the forecast

 

Moving day

Moving day can feel hectic, but staying focused on a few key tasks can help everything run more smoothly.

• Direct moving labor to which items you want loaded
• Follow these loading tips to keep things safe
• Take breaks and drink water!
• Secure the equipment if you’ll be away

 

Before leaving

• Walk through every room one last time
• Check closets, cabinets and storage spaces
• Lock windows and doors
• Leave behind any required keys or paperwork

 

After the move

Once you reach your new home, prioritize these tasks:

• Assemble beds and unpack essentials
• Test utilities and internet service
• Locate nearby grocery stores, pharmacies and emergency services

 

You don’t have to unpack everything immediately. Focus on creating a comfortable, livable space first, then work through the rest over time.

Want to know everything you should do after moving to a new state? Check out this post-move guide.

 

Still looking for a moving service? We’ve moved more than 1 million families since 1997 (and we’d love to add yours to the list). Get a quote or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak with a helpful moving consultant.