Create a move binder to house all pertinent information and moving related receipts.

Set a moving date and book a reputable moving company or plan for a DIY move.

Create a moving budget and allocate funds accordingly.

Get appraisals on your expensive items, like antiques, so you can insure them for your move.

Obtain necessary moving supplies such as boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers.

Research your new community, including schools and nearby doctors and hospitals.

If you are relocating due to a job transfer, familiarize yourself with your company’s moving policy and procedures.

Start decluttering and organizing your belongings to reduce the load on moving day.

Check in with your mover to confirm dates and make special arrangements for items such as plants and a piano.

Begin strategizing the placement of your belongings in your new home.

Compile an inventory of your possessions to cross-reference with the moving company’s inventory.

Develop a plan for handling the transportation of your appliances.

Start packing non-essentials, like seasonal items, labeling each box with its contents and the room it belongs to on all sides.

Submit a change of address form to the post office.

Notify important institutions (banks, credit card companies, insurance providers) of your new address.

Update your address on subscriptions and memberships.

Transfer school records. Begin the process of registering for schools in your new location.

Arrange for the transfer or cancellation of utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet, cable) at both properties.

Check the requirements for a new driver’s license and complete auto registration at your new motor vehicle location.

Inform your doctors and dentists about your upcoming relocation and request your medical and dental records. Safely store these records in a secure location

Arrange your travel plans for the move, including any necessary hotel reservations. It’s important to arrive at your new location well in advance of your scheduled mover’s arrival, taking into consideration your family and pets’ needs.

Begin packing any items left, labeling accordingly.

Safely gather and store valuable items such as jewelry or heirlooms in a separate and secure location.

Gather and organize essential documents such as wills, passports, and other crucial paperwork. Make electronic copies of these documents but keep the originals with you for easy access and security during the move.

Pack an overnight bag with essentials for the first few days in your new home like toiletries, clothes, and important documents.

Start disassembling furniture and packing fragile items with extra care.

Schedule professional cleaning services for both your current and new homes.

Return borrowed items like library books and retrieve any belongings from the dry cleaners.

If you live in an apartment, make arrangements with your building management to reserve the elevator for the movers on the day of your move.

Locate new pharmacies in your new area where you can transfer your family’s prescriptions, and ensure you have an ample supply of necessary medication in case you don’t immediately find a new pharmacist or doctor.

Create a contingency plan should the movers experience delays in reaching your new home. Determine alternative sleeping arrangements in case of such an event.

Write out a list for your movers of things they’ll need: phone numbers, exact moving address, and directions.

Check to have the moving company’s contact information in your moving folder.

Ensure that you have sufficient cash available for the move. Inquire about any potential post-move payments and the preferred form of payment accepted by the movers.

Empty all lockers at school, work, or the gym to ensure that no belongings are left behind.

Label doors in your new home to assist the movers in identifying each room. Additionally, create a floor layout map indicating where specific items should be placed.

Take necessary precautions to protect your new home from any potential damage as furniture and belongings are brought in during the move.

Accompany your real estate agent on a walk-through of your new home, ensuring that everything is in order and addressing any concerns.

Notify relevant parties of your new address, including your employer and the IRS.

Confirm the process of updating your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and voter registration should it need to be addressed before your scheduled settlement date.

Transfer your children’s school records if applicable.

Research and apply for any necessary permits or licenses related to your new location.

Check the dates for utility hookups at your new home and the disconnection of utilities at your current home.

Ensure that any scheduled deliveries, such as newspapers or magazines, have been properly canceled or redirected to your new home.

Confirm the process of changing the locks of your new home for added security and peace of mind.

Gather all keys, alarm codes, garage door openers, and warranties, placing them in a designated folder along with your contact information. This will facilitate handing them over to the new owner or real estate agent.

Empty your refrigerator/freezer, thoroughly clean it, and defrost if necessary. Ensure to eliminate any unpleasant odors.

Prior to your departure, mow your lawn one final time, particularly if your home will not be vacant immediately after you leave.

Dispose of or donate items you no longer need.