The Ultimate Moving Checklist: A Guide to Staying Sane

Moving is one of those life events that’s equal parts exciting and stressful. Think roller coaster meets haunted house — you’re thrilled, terrified, and wondering why you have so many random cords in your junk drawer. The good news? With a solid plan and a little humor, you can pull it off without losing your mind (or your favorite socks). Here’s your ultimate moving checklist.

Six Weeks Before the Move: Plan Like a Pro

Start decluttering. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and decide what sparks joy and what definitely doesn’t. If you haven’t touched that fondue set since 2005, it’s time to say goodbye.

Research moving companies. Get at least three quotes and check reviews. The cheapest isn’t always the best — you want movers who treat your belongings like treasures, not juggling balls.

Create a moving binder. Keep all your moving details in one place — contracts, checklists, receipts. Bonus points if you decorate it with stickers (because who doesn’t love stickers?).

Four Weeks Before the Move: Time to Get Serious

Notify important parties. Landlord, post office, internet provider, and yes — even that random subscription you forgot you had.

Order supplies. Boxes, tape, markers, and bubble wrap. Don’t underestimate how much bubble wrap you’ll need (and how satisfying it is to pop when the stress hits).

Start packing non-essentials. Books, seasonal clothes, that waffle maker you swore you’d use. Label everything so unpacking isn’t a nightmare.

Two Weeks Before the Move: Crunch Time

Change your address. Post office, bank, doctor’s office, and any subscriptions you actually want to keep.

Confirm moving details. Double-check times and addresses with your moving company. Nothing worse than movers showing up while you’re still in pajamas.

Pack a moving day kit. Snacks, chargers, toilet paper, a change of clothes, and all the coffee you can manage. Trust me, you’ll need it.

One Week Before the Move: Almost There

Finish packing. Leave out only what you need for the week and pack a first-night box with bedding, toiletries, and pajamas.

Clean your current home. Whether it’s a quick tidy or deep clean, you’ll feel better leaving the place in good shape (and hey, you might even find that missing sock).

Defrost the freezer. No one wants to deal with a dripping mess on moving day.

Moving Day: The Big Adventure

Wake up early. The sooner you start, the sooner you can collapse into bed later.

Stay fueled. Water, snacks, and coffee are your moving day MVPs.

Supervise the movers. Label rooms in your new home and help guide the process. And if they crush it, don’t forget to tip.

After the Move: Settling In

Unpack the essentials first. Get beds made, the bathroom stocked, and grab that much-needed coffee. The rest can wait.

Explore the neighborhood. Take a break from boxes and go find your new coffee shop, park, or pizza spot.

Celebrate! Moving is no small feat. Order takeout, pop something bubbly (or bubbly water), and cheers to your new chapter.

Moving will always come with a little chaos, but with a plan in place you can stay sane and even enjoy the process. Embrace the adventure, laugh at the little hiccups, and look forward to the memories waiting to be made in your new home.

📲 Ready to make your next move? Let’s chat. Whether you’re buying, selling, or relocating, I’ll help you navigate every step and keep the stress to a minimum.