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 detailsReview 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 homeNote 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 officeNotify 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 moveRequest 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, discardSchedule 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 subscriptionsCancel 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 bedroomsPack 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 transportationTransfer 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 addressUpdate 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 essentialsPack 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 electronicsToiletries 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 neededGet 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 itemsMake 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 timeConfirm utility connection dates
Confirm new home access arrangements
Confirm elevator and parking reservations
Moving Day Preparations
Day Before Move
Pack overnight bagsEmpty 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 homeCheck 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 appliancesChange locks on doors
Locate shut-off valves and breaker box
Find local emergency services
Introduce yourself to neighbors
Setup & Organization
Set up beds firstUnpack 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!
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.

