Moving Day Preparation Checklist:
A Simple Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Planning a move can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This moving day preparation checklist walks you through exactly how to prepare for your move, from two months out to moving day itself, so nothing gets missed and stress stays low.

At RELOQ Moving Services, we’ve helped thousands of customers complete smooth, well-organized moves across Boston and Massachusetts. This checklist is built from real moving-day experience and focuses on what truly matters.

🗓 Two Months Before Moving
Get Organized
- Create a simple moving folder (digital or paper) for estimates, receipts, schedules, and notes.
- Measure rooms and door ways at your new home to make sure large furniture will fit.
- Sketch a basic floor plan to help movers place furniture efficiently on delivery day.

Declutter& Simplify
- Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
- Schedule donation pickups or plan a small moving sale.
- Start using up pantry items—especially perishables.
- Safely dispose of items movers cannot transport (aerosols, flammables, propane tanks, ammunition, etc.).

PackingPreparation
- Decide what you’ll pack yourself and what you want professional movers to pack.
- Leave items in cabinets and closets if professionals are packing—they’re safest there.
- Begin preparing houseplants and review any state or local regulations.

🗓 One Month Before Moving
Time-Off & Housing
- Request moving day off work if needed.
- If renting, notify your landlord and confirm security deposit return procedures.

Transfers& Records
- Schedule utility disconnections at your current home and connections at your new home.
- Transfer or cancel delivery services.
- Request or transfer: Medical and dental records; Prescriptions; School records; Pet and veterinary records
- Review renters or homeowners insurance coverage during the move.

Address Updates
- Submit a USPS change-of-address form (one per person).
- Notify banks, credit cards, subscriptions, and important contacts.
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🗓 Three Weeks Before Moving
Service Arrangements
- Service major appliances if required.
- Plan pet transportation if needed.
- Schedule professional removal of satellite dishes or antennas (movers cannot remove these).
- Cancel or transfer cable, internet, and phone services.

🗓 Two Weeks Before Moving
Final Packing Prep
- Return library books and borrowed items.
- Pick up dry cleaning, storage items, or safety deposit box contents.
- Dispose of hazardous or flammable materials.
- Complete your High-ValueInventory Form if applicable.

Finishing Touches
- Reconfirm travel arrangements.
- Prepare a “Welcome to Your New Home” card for new occupants if applicable.

🗓 One Week Before Moving
Essentials for the Car
- Important documents
- Medications
- Cell phone chargers
- Snacks and water
- Flashlight and first-aid kit
- Credit cards and small cash

Packing
- Start packing suitcases.
- Set aside items you’ll need immediately at your new home.

🧹 Final Cleaning & Home Preparation
- Drain gas and oil from small power equipment.
- Drain and store gardenhoses.
- Defrost, clean, and dry refrigerators and freezers.
- Dispose of remaining trash or debris.
- Sweep, vacuum, and clean kitchens and bathrooms.
- Review your lease to help maximize your security deposit return.

🗓 Day Before & Moving Day
FinalChecks
- Be available on moving day to answer questions.
- Review and sign all required paperwork.
- Confirm delivery address, contact number, and delivery timing.
- Leave keys, garage openers, or welcome notes as agreed.
- Perform a final walkthrough—check closets, cabinets, storage areas, windows, and lights.

💡 ProTip: Arriving at your new home a day early helps ensure utilities are active and allows you to guide furniture placement.

📬 Who to Notify of Your New Address
- Post Office
- Insurance providers (life, health, auto, homeowners)
- Banks and credit cards
- Employers
- IRS and government agencies
- Magazines and subscriptions
- Clubs, memberships, and service providers

🔌 Services to Transfer or Cancel
- Electric
- Gas or fuel
- Water
- Internet
- Cable or satellite TV
- Phone
- Trash and recycling
- Lawn care
- Newspaper delivery

📦 Pack These Items Separately
Pack a clearly labeled “Open First” box with:
- Toiletries
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Tools
- Bedding and pajamas