Planning

Moving Checklist

Work down this list and nothing lands in the last 48 hours. Tick items off as you go: your progress is saved in this browser, and there is a print button for a clean paper copy.

Move day preparation Boxes and supplies

Eight weeks out

Set your move date and book the crew.
Decide what you are taking, selling, donating and storing.
Start a folder for move paperwork, estimates and receipts.
Request time off work for move day and the day after.

Six weeks out

Get written estimates and compare them line by line.
Tell your landlord or building manager the move date.
Book the elevator or loading dock, and ask what paperwork the building needs.
Request a certificate of insurance if the building requires one.

Four weeks out

Order boxes and packing materials, or book a packing crew.
Begin packing room by room, starting with the least used.
Arrange school, medical and pet records.
Schedule utilities to start and stop.

Two weeks out

Give notice to your landlord if you rent.
Confirm the arrival window and crew size in writing.
Apply for the parking permit or no-parking signs from the city.
Back up computers and photograph anything valuable.

One week out

Defrost and clean the fridge and freezer if they travel.
Pack a bag of essentials for the first night.
Confirm the elevator or loading dock one more time.
Put valuables, documents and medication somewhere they stay with you.

The night before

Clear a path from the door to where the truck will park.
Set aside the boxes that travel with you.
Charge your phone and keep keys and chargers out of the boxes.
Get some sleep: move day is physical even when someone else does the lifting.

Move day

Be present, or have someone there, to answer questions.
Walk the crew through anything fragile or newly repaired.
Keep pets and children clear of the loading path.
Check every room, closet, cupboard and garage before the truck leaves.

After the move

Reassemble beds and furniture and check nothing was damaged.
Note any damage on the paperwork, or photograph it the same day.
Return borrowed boxes or schedule a pickup.
Update your address with the post office, bank and insurance.

Want help with the heavy items?

We can pack, wrap and load everything on this list, or just the parts you would rather not handle.

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