Moving Checklist
Everything you need to do before, during, and after your move.
Moving is easier when you have a plan. This checklist breaks down everything you need to do, organized by timeline.
6-8 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Create a moving budget: Factor in movers, packing supplies, deposits, utility transfers
- Research and book movers: Get quotes from at least 3 companies. We book up fast in summer.
- Start decluttering: Go through closets, garage, storage. Sell, donate, or toss what you don't need.
- Gather important documents: Birth certificates, passports, medical records, financial paperwork
- Notify your landlord: Check your lease for notice requirements-usually 30-60 days
4 Weeks Before
- Order packing supplies: Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, labels
- Start packing non-essentials: Seasonal items, books, decor, things you don't use daily
- Change your address: File a change of address with USPS-do it online or at the post office
- Transfer utilities: Schedule disconnect at old place, connect at new place. Don't forget internet.
- Update insurance: Contact home/renters insurance, auto insurance with new address
- Arrange for kids and pets: Moving day is easier if they're somewhere safe and out of the way
2 Weeks Before
- Confirm moving details: Double-check date, time, address with your moving company
- Finish major packing: Everything except daily essentials should be packed by now
- Use up perishables: Eat what's in the fridge and freezer. Don't buy more groceries.
- Notify important parties: Banks, credit cards, subscriptions, employers, schools
- Clean or donate old furniture: If you're not taking it, get it out now
1 Week Before
- Pack an essentials bag: Toiletries, clothes, medications, phone chargers, important docs
- Defrost the freezer: If you're moving the fridge, give it time to dry out
- Return borrowed items: Library books, neighbor's tools, anything that's not yours
- Clean the new place: If possible, do a quick clean before moving furniture in
- Reserve elevator or parking: If you're in an apartment, coordinate with management
Moving Day
- Be there or available: Either be present or make sure we can reach you by phone
- Clear pathways: Make sure hallways, stairs, and doorways are accessible
- Point out special items: Fragile, valuable, or items needing extra care
- Do a final walkthrough: Check every room, closet, cabinet before leaving for good
- Take meter readings: Water, gas, electric-document the final numbers
- Leave keys and garage openers: For landlord or new owners as arranged
After the Move
- Unpack essentials first: Beds, bathroom stuff, kitchen basics
- Test utilities: Make sure water, electric, gas, internet are all working
- Update driver's license: Idaho DMV requires address changes within 30 days
- Register to vote: Update your voter registration with your new address
- Find new service providers: Doctors, dentists, vets, hair salon, etc.
- Meet the neighbors: Introduce yourself. It's a small thing that goes a long way.
Too Much to Handle?
Let us take the stress out of moving day. We'll handle the heavy lifting.
(208) 768-3987