Back to Blogs
Planning

Moving Checklist: 30 Days Before Your Move

MoveABox Team
Nov 5, 2024
6 min read
1.7k views
Moving Checklist: 30 Days Before Your Move

A comprehensive checklist to ensure you don't miss anything important in the month leading up to your move.

Your Complete 30-Day Moving Checklist

A successful move requires organization and planning. This comprehensive 30-day checklist breaks down everything you need to do in the month before your move, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Print this out and check off items as you complete them.

Week 1 (30-23 Days Before Move)

Moving Company & Logistics

Confirm moving company booking and details
Review moving contract and insurance coverage
Schedule elevator reservation (if applicable)
Reserve parking spot for moving truck at both locations
Arrange for time off work on moving day

Housing & Utilities

Complete final walkthrough of new home
Note any repairs needed at new place
Schedule utility disconnection at current home
Schedule utility connection at new home
Arrange internet/cable installation at new place

Administrative Tasks

Submit change of address to post office
Notify employer of address change
Update address with banks and credit card companies
Notify insurance companies (health, auto, life)
Update voter registration

School & Medical

Notify schools of upcoming move
Request school records and transcripts
Research schools in new area
Request medical records from current doctors
Find new doctors and dentists
Fill prescriptions for transition period

Week 2 (22-16 Days Before Move)

Decluttering & Organization

Sort items: keep, donate, sell, discard
Schedule donation pickup or drop-off
List items for sale online
Start using up pantry items and freezer food
Begin using up cleaning supplies and toiletries

Packing Preparation

Gather packing supplies (boxes, tape, markers)
Start packing non-essential items
Pack seasonal items and decorations
Pack books and rarely used items
Create inventory list as you pack
Label boxes with contents and destination room

Financial & Legal

Update address with DMV (if changing states)
Update address with IRS
Transfer or close local bank accounts if needed
Update will and estate documents
Notify investment and retirement account providers

Subscriptions & Memberships

Update address with magazine subscriptions
Cancel or transfer gym membership
Update address with subscription services
Cancel or transfer local club memberships

Week 3 (15-9 Days Before Move)

Deep Packing

Pack guest room and spare bedrooms
Pack decorative items and artwork
Pack out-of-season clothing
Pack basement and attic items
Pack garage (except essentials)

Appliances & Furniture

Defrost freezer (if moving it)
Clean appliances thoroughly
Measure furniture and doorways at new home
Disassemble furniture that won't fit through doors
Keep hardware in labeled bags

Pets & Plants

Arrange pet transportation
Transfer vet records
Update pet tags with new address and phone
Prepare plants for moving
Research plant transport regulations (if interstate)

Notifications

Notify friends and family of new address
Update address with frequent online retailers
Update social media profiles (if desired)
Update professional directory listings

Week 4 (8-1 Days Before Move)

Final Packing

Pack all but daily essentials
Pack one room at a time
Clearly label fragile boxes
Create "Open First" box with essentials
Pack valuables to take personally

Essentials Box Contents

Phone chargers and electronics
Toiletries and medications
Change of clothes for each family member
Important documents and keys
Snacks and water
Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
Paper plates, cups, utensils
Trash bags and cleaning supplies

Vehicle Preparation

Arrange vehicle transport if needed
Get car serviced for long drive
Update vehicle registration (if changing states)
Obtain new driver's license (if changing states)

Safety & Security

Take photos of valuable items
Make copies of important documents
Back up computer files
Compile list of emergency contacts
Plan for home security at both locations

Final Confirmations

Confirm moving company arrival time
Confirm utility connection dates
Confirm new home access arrangements
Confirm elevator and parking reservations

Moving Day Preparations

Day Before Move

Pack overnight bags
Empty and defrost refrigerator
Disconnect appliances
Charge all devices
Prepare payment for movers
Set aside important documents to carry

Moving Day

Do final walkthrough of old home
Check all closets, cabinets, and storage
Take meter readings
Leave keys with landlord or new owners
Meet movers at new home
Direct placement of furniture and boxes

First Week in New Home

Immediate Tasks

Test all utilities and appliances
Change locks on doors
Locate shut-off valves and breaker box
Find local emergency services
Introduce yourself to neighbors

Setup & Organization

Set up beds first
Unpack kitchen essentials
Unpack bathrooms
Set up work/study areas
Begin unpacking room by room

Tips for Staying Organized

  • Print this checklist and post it prominently
  • Check off items as you complete them
  • Add any additional tasks specific to your move
  • Set reminders on your phone for time-sensitive tasks
  • Keep all moving-related documents in one folder
  • Take photos throughout the process

Emergency Contact Information

Keep these numbers easily accessible:

  • Moving company: _________________
  • New landlord/realtor: _________________
  • Utility companies: _________________
  • Emergency services: _________________
  • MoveABox support: +91 9019534085

Conclusion

This comprehensive checklist covers the essential tasks for a smooth move. While it may seem overwhelming, breaking it down week by week makes it manageable. Remember, everyone's move is unique, so adapt this checklist to your specific needs. Stay organized, start early, and don't hesitate to ask for help. MoveABox is here to support you throughout your moving journey!

Tags:PlanningMoving Tips

MoveABox Team

Expert team at MoveABox dedicated to making your relocation experience smooth and stress-free. We share professional insights, tips, and best practices from years of moving expertise.

Related Articles

Ready to Get Started?

Get a free quote for your move today and experience stress-free relocation with MoveABox.