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Moving Checklist by Week: Stay Organized Before Moving Day

April 17, 2026
Michelle Rodriguez
2 min read
Moving Tips

Moving Checklist by Week: Stay Organized Before Moving Day

A week-by-week checklist keeps you organized and prevents last-minute stress. This timeline breaks down moving preparation into manageable weekly tasks.

8 Weeks Before Moving

  • Decide on moving date
  • Create moving budget
  • Research moving companies
  • Get 3-5 moving quotes
  • Review lease/mortgage terms
  • Notify landlord (if renting)
  • Start decluttering

6 Weeks Before Moving

  • Book moving company
  • Create detailed inventory
  • Start collecting packing supplies
  • Notify utilities of move date
  • Update address with banks
  • Cancel/transfer subscriptions
  • Plan moving day logistics

4 Weeks Before Moving

  • Begin packing non-essential items
  • Use up frozen foods
  • Donate/sell unwanted items
  • Confirm moving company details
  • Arrange time off work
  • Plan pet care for moving day
  • Notify schools (if applicable)

2 Weeks Before Moving

  • Pack 50% of belongings
  • Defrost freezer
  • Confirm moving day details
  • Prepare essentials box
  • Update address with remaining services
  • Clean current home
  • Take meter readings

1 Week Before Moving

  • Pack 80% of belongings
  • Confirm utilities disconnection/connection
  • Do final walkthrough
  • Prepare moving day snacks
  • Charge all electronics
  • Confirm moving day time
  • Arrange help for moving day

3 Days Before Moving

  • Pack remaining items
  • Defrost freezer completely
  • Use perishable foods
  • Confirm all arrangements
  • Prepare essentials box
  • Clean thoroughly
  • Take final photos

Moving Day

  • Do final walkthrough
  • Check all closets/cabinets
  • Turn off utilities
  • Lock all windows/doors
  • Confirm all items loaded
  • Take meter readings
  • Final walkthrough with landlord

After Moving

  • Unpack essentials first
  • Check all items arrived
  • Update remaining addresses
  • Register to vote
  • Explore new neighborhood
  • Celebrate your move!

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