Moving timeline checklist: what to do from 8 weeks out to moving day

Confirm your moving date, decide whether you will use professional movers, rent a vehicle or manage the move another way, and begin comparing costs. If you rent, review your lease and notice requirements. If you own your home, keep closing, access and handover dates visible beside the move.

Create a rough moving budget and begin decluttering before buying packing supplies. Sort one room at a time so you reduce the amount you need to pack, transport and unpack.

Book movers, transport or storage once you are comfortable with the plan. Confirm what is included, cancellation terms, arrival windows and items that cannot be transported. If you need elevators, loading docks or parking permits, ask both properties about the process now.

Start a box inventory and gather packing supplies. Pack seasonal items, books, décor and other belongings you will not need before moving day. Number boxes and assign a destination room as soon as each one is closed.

Begin scheduling utilities at the new address and plan stop dates at the old one. Electricity, gas, water and internet may need advance notice or installation appointments, so do not leave them all for the final week.

Create your change-of-address list for mail, banks, insurance, employers, health providers, schools, subscriptions and official records. Some updates can be made early while others should wait until you occupy the new address.

Reconfirm movers or transport, addresses, contact numbers, parking, elevators and arrival windows. Finish most packing while leaving out only what your household still needs every day.

Prepare a folder for identification, contracts, receipts, insurance, medical information and other records that should travel with you. Arrange childcare or pet care if it will make moving day safer and easier.

Pack everyday rooms, use up or dispose of food that will not travel well, return borrowed items and separate valuables from general transport. Label open-first boxes clearly and keep documents, medicines and important electronics with you.

Complete required cleaning or repairs and confirm how keys, remotes and access devices will be returned. If relevant, prepare to photograph the property and record meter readings during the final walkthrough.

Do a final walkthrough before leaving, check box counts during loading and delivery, and direct boxes to their destination rooms. At the new home, verify essential utilities and inspect high-value or fragile items early.

During the first week, focus on beds, bathrooms, basic kitchen setup, work or school essentials, remaining address changes and important registrations. Review your moving budget and utility accounts once the first final bills and new-home charges begin to arrive.