Checklist for Moving: A Step-by-Step Guide by USMPO

Picture of Edited by <b><u>Alex O.</u></b>

Edited by Alex O.

Updated: March 18, 2025
5 min read

Moving is a significant life event that combines excitement, change, and often, a fair amount of stress. Whether you’re relocating within your city or planning a long-distance move to another state, staying organized and prepared can make all the difference. A comprehensive checklist for moving is your best ally—it keeps everything on track, ensures you don’t forget critical tasks, and offers clarity during what can otherwise feel like chaos. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each phase of your move—from initial planning to settling in—so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

8 Weeks Before Moving: Lay the Groundwork Early

At the two-month mark, the focus should be on planning, organizing, and setting the foundation for a smooth moving process. This is the ideal time to begin because it allows you enough buffer to make thoughtful decisions without last-minute pressure.

1. Create a central location for moving documents

Whether you prefer a physical binder or a digital folder, having a dedicated space to store moving quotes, contracts, inventories, receipts, and timelines is essential. This not only prevents lost paperwork but also makes it easier to reference important information quickly when dealing with movers or other service providers.

2. Begin researching and securing professional movers

The earlier you start gathering moving quotes and reading customer reviews, the better your chances of booking a reputable company on your desired moving date. Always verify that the moving company is licensed and, for interstate moves, registered with the U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO). Choosing a USMPO-verified mover offers an added layer of accountability and consumer protection.

3. Establish a moving budget

Your moving expenses could include much more than the moving truck or labor—be sure to factor in packing supplies, fuel costs, lodging (if it’s a long-distance move), utility deposits, and cleaning services. A clearly defined budget allows you to make smarter, financially responsible choices and prioritize spending where it matters most.

6 Weeks Before Moving: Declutter and Prepare Logistics

By now, the moving date is approaching, and it’s time to streamline your belongings and prepare both your old and new homes for the transition. This phase involves eliminating unnecessary items and ensuring you’ve handled the administrative tasks associated with the move.

1. Declutter your home systematically

Go room by room and sort your belongings into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Be honest about what you actually use. Items that have been collecting dust for years are likely not worth transporting. Decluttering not only reduces your moving costs but also makes unpacking at your new home significantly easier.

2. Plan a donation or sale strategy

Consider hosting a garage sale or listing unwanted items online to recoup some moving costs. Alternatively, donate gently used items to local charities. Doing so gives your belongings a second life and helps your community—plus, it lightens your load for moving day.

3. Gather essential records and documents

Collect school records, medical records, vet records, prescriptions, passports, legal documents, and anything else you’ll need access to before or right after the move. Place these in a labeled folder that stays with you throughout the move to ensure they don’t get packed away.

4. Notify key parties of your move

Inform your employer, utility companies, bank, insurance providers, and any subscription services that you are changing your address. This is also the time to research how to transfer or cancel services and begin the address change process with the USPS.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Before moving your household goods interstate, movers are required to give you the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet and FMCSA's Ready to Move brochure to help you understand the documents that a mover will ask you to sign, and explains your rights if your household goods are lost or damaged during a long distance move.

4 Weeks Before Moving: Dive Into Packing and Confirm Details

1. Purchase or collect packing supplies

Gather a variety of box sizes, heavy-duty tape, labels, markers, bubble wrap, and specialty containers for delicate items. Don’t underestimate how many boxes you’ll need—it’s better to have extra than run short mid-packing. Consider eco-friendly options or ask local stores for free boxes if you’re looking to save on supplies.

2. Start packing non-essential items

Begin with things you won’t need in the coming weeks, such as seasonal clothing, books, decorative pieces, and rarely used kitchen appliances. Clearly label each box with its contents and intended room to simplify unpacking. Numbering your boxes and keeping an inventory sheet can add an extra layer of organization.

3. Double-check moving arrangements

Contact your chosen moving company to confirm the scheduled time and details. Ask for written confirmation of services, insurance coverage, and policies. If your move involves complex logistics like multiple stops or storage, make sure these are included in the final contract.

2 Weeks Before Moving: Set Up Essentials and Prepare New Space

As moving day approaches, begin shifting your focus to preparing your new home and gathering essential supplies for the transition. This is the moment to ensure a seamless arrival.

1. Arrange for utility setup in your new home

Call ahead to schedule the activation of electricity, gas, internet, water, and waste management services in your new residence. Doing this early guarantees that everything is up and running by the time you move in, avoiding any unnecessary disruptions.

2. Pack an “essentials” kit

If your move involves a long drive, ensure your car is in good working order with an oil change, tire check, and full tank of gas. If you’re flying, confirm your travel plans, tickets, and lodging if needed.

Pro Tip: If your move involves a long drive, ensure your car is in good working order with an oil change, tire check, and full tank of gas. If you're flying, confirm your travel plans, tickets, and lodging if needed.

Moving Day: Execution and Oversight

This is the day it all happens. A calm, organized approach will help everything go smoothly.

1. Be present and accessible for movers

Meet the crew, walk them through your home, and provide any special instructions regarding fragile or high-priority items. Offer water and make sure they know where restrooms are located—these small courtesies go a long way in ensuring a positive experience.

2. Carry valuables with you

Keep jewelry, documents, prescription medications, electronics, and high-value items on your person or in a bag that stays with you. This ensures nothing essential is lost, misplaced, or damaged in transit.

3. Conduct a final home walkthrough

Before leaving, check every room, closet, drawer, and cabinet. Make sure lights are off, windows are closed, and the thermostat is set appropriately. If you’re leaving a rental, snap pictures to document the condition in case of disputes.

How far in advance should I start planning my move?

Ideally, you should begin planning your move at least eight weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to research reputable moving companies, declutter your home, prepare essential documents, and handle logistics such as utility transfers and address changes. Early planning also helps you avoid last-minute costs, ensures availability with trusted movers, and significantly reduces stress as moving day approaches.

What should I include in my essentials box for moving day?

Your essentials box should contain all the must-have items you’ll need for the first 48–72 hours in your new home. This typically includes toiletries, medications, phone chargers, snacks, bottled water, important documents, basic kitchen utensils, bedding, and a change of clothes. If you have children or pets, remember to pack their comfort items, food, and basic necessities too. Having these essentials easily accessible saves time and energy on your first days post-move.

How can I protect myself from moving fraud?

To avoid moving scams, always choose licensed and verified moving companies—preferably those listed on the USMPO’s trusted movers registry. Never pay in full upfront and be cautious of movers who demand large cash deposits or offer quotes without conducting a virtual or in-home survey. USMPO’s Secure Escrow Payment System is designed to protect consumers by holding funds until the move is completed satisfactorily, giving you leverage and security.

What is the best way to stay organized throughout the moving process?

The most effective way to stay organized is to use a comprehensive checklist for moving, broken down by weeks. Use digital tools or printed planners to track tasks, inventory items, and set reminders for important deadlines. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination rooms. Maintain a moving binder or folder to store documents like quotes, contracts, receipts, and schedules. Staying methodical from the beginning ensures fewer surprises and a more manageable moving experience.