Use this week-by-week checklist to stay organized, keep track of important tasks and feel more prepared as moving day approaches.
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, etc.) 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
- If you’ll need temporary housing
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
- Begin collecting boxes and packing supplies if you haven't already
Pro Tip: Long-distance movers 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 week is all 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
2 weeks before
With moving day getting closer, now's the time to tackle administrative tasks and prepare for the week ahead.
- 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 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 tasks
The day of your move can feel hectic, but staying focused on a few key tasks can help everything run smoothly.
- Direct moving labor to the items you want loaded
- Follow proper loading tips to keep things safe
- Take breaks and drink water!
- Secure the equipment if you’ll be away
Things to do before leaving your house for the last time
- Walk through every room to confirm nothing is left behind
- Check closets, cabinets and storage spaces
- Lock windows and doors
- Leave behind any required keys or paperwork
What to do 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.
Moving on a short timeline?
Not everyone has two months to prepare. If you're planning a move with only a few weeks (or even days) to spare, focus on must-do tasks first.
Last-minute moving priorities
- Reserve your moving service as soon as possible
- Confirm where you'll stay when you arrive
- Gather basic packing supplies and start with essential items
- Arrange utility cancellations
- Change your address with USPS and update important accounts
- Refill prescriptions and collect important records
- Pack a travel bag with several days' worth of clothing, medications and necessities
- Make plans for pets, children and vehicles
- Confirm parking, access and building requirements at both locations
Pro tip: When time is limited, focus on logistics first and packing second. Securing transportation, travel plans and housing is far more difficult to handle at the last minute than packing another box.
Still looking for a moving service? We’ve moved more than 1.5 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.