A checklist will not carry your sofa down the stairs, but it can prevent most of the small failures that make moves feel chaotic. The key is to spread tasks across several weeks rather than leaving them for the final weekend.
This checklist is organized by timeline. Adjust it for the size of your move, since a studio apartment and a family home do not require the same effort.
How far in advance should you start planning a move?
Ideally six to eight weeks before moving day, and earlier for long-distance relocations or peak-season dates. That window gives you time to compare options, declutter and pack at a reasonable pace. If your move is sooner, work through the list in priority order: booking, notices, essentials, then packing.
Six to eight weeks before
- Set your move date and budget
- Decide whether you will hire a crew, pack yourself or use a combination
- Collect quotes from a few companies, and compare what is included
- Begin decluttering room by room
- Sort belongings into keep, sell, donate and recycle
- Gather important documents in one folder
- Research your new neighbourhood, schools, transit and services
- Give notice to your landlord or begin the process of listing your home
If you are comparing options for how far in advance to book, it helps to check availability around your preferred dates before confirming other commitments.
Four to six weeks before
- Confirm your booking in writing, with date, crew size, services and arrival window
- Order or collect boxes, tape, markers, paper and wrap
- Start packing items you rarely use
- Use up pantry and freezer food gradually
- Arrange time off work if needed
- Make childcare or pet-care plans for moving day
- Ask your building about elevator bookings and move-in rules
Three to four weeks before
- Start the address change process with your bank, employer, insurers, subscriptions and government services
- Arrange utilities: electricity, gas, water, internet and mobile
- Schedule disconnects at your old home and connections at the new one
- Arrange for mail forwarding
- Transfer prescriptions and medical records if you are changing providers
- Book cleaners if required
- Measure large furniture and your new space
Two weeks before
- Pack non-essential rooms
- Label each box by room and contents
- Take photos of electronics before disconnecting
- Arrange parking for your truck at both addresses
- Return borrowed items and collect your own
- Plan for valuables and documents, which should travel with you
- Pack a separate bag for your first night
One week before
- Confirm the booking with your moving company
- Finish most packing
- Defrost the refrigerator and freezer if applicable
- Disassemble furniture you plan to handle yourself
- Clean areas as they empty
- Pre-pay or schedule any required fees
- Prepare payment, tips and refreshments for the crew
- Charge devices and gather cables
The day before
- Pack the final items
- Set aside everything that is not going on the truck
- Clear walkways, stairs and entries
- Check the weather and prepare accordingly
- Place your essentials bag, documents and valuables in your own vehicle
- Make sure keys, fobs and remotes are ready
- Get some rest
What should you do on moving day?
Be ready before the crew arrives, walk through the home with the team lead, point out fragile or priority items, confirm the destination and stay reachable throughout. Then check each room as it empties and do a final walkthrough before you leave.
Morning checklist
- Eat and hydrate
- Unlock access and clear parking
- Have a plan for pets and children
- Greet the crew and give a short walkthrough
- Confirm where fragile items are
- Share your phone number and the destination address
During loading
- Remain available for questions
- Keep valuables and documents with you
- Offer water, particularly in hot or cold weather
- Check closets, cupboards and storage areas as they empty
Final walkthrough
- Open every cabinet and closet
- Check the garage, attic, balcony and basement
- Take photos of the empty home
- Confirm all keys and remotes are returned
- Turn off lights and lock up
Choosing the right level of help
A good moving service can be flexible about what it includes. Some households want labour only, some want a truck and crew, and others want packing, supplies and furniture protection as well. When you are comparing options, ask about packing support, furniture protection, insurance options, how time is charged and how the crew communicates during the move. The answers will tell you a lot about how organized the company is.
Arrival day at the new home
- Do a walkthrough and note any existing damage
- Direct the crew to place boxes and furniture in the right rooms
- Check that large pieces are positioned where you want them
- Inspect furniture before the crew leaves
- Test lights, water, heat and appliances
- Locate the water shut-off and electrical panel
- Make up beds first
- Unpack the kitchen basics and bathroom essentials
The first week
- Unpack room by room, starting with the ones you use most
- Update remaining address changes
- Register for local services
- Introduce yourself to neighbours
- Break down boxes and arrange recycling
- Learn waste and recycling schedules
- Review any items that were damaged and report issues promptly
- Take it slowly and avoid trying to finish everything in a weekend
Essentials bag contents
- Medications and basic first aid
- Phone, charger and portable battery
- Toiletries, towels and a change of clothes
- Basic tools: screwdriver, tape, scissors
- Light snacks, water and coffee supplies
- Bedding for the first night
- Important documents
- Pet food and supplies
Common last-minute problems and how to handle them
You are not finished packing: Tell the crew right away. Some can assist, though it may extend time and cost.
Weather changes: Have coverings for furniture and extra towels or floor protection. In winter, clear and salt walkways.
Building access issues: Contact the property manager immediately and keep your crew informed.
Running late: Communicate with the crew and prioritize essentials.
Conclusion
A checklist works because it breaks a large, intimidating project into small, manageable steps. Start early, confirm key details in writing, label everything and keep essentials with you. When moving day arrives, you will be reacting to a plan rather than improvising one.
FAQs
What should I do first when planning a move?
Set your date, decide how much help you need and begin decluttering. Then collect quotes and confirm your booking.
How long does it take to pack a house?
It varies widely, but many households benefit from two to four weeks of steady packing. Larger homes and homes with lots of storage may need more time.
What should I pack last?
Daily-use items such as toiletries, kitchen basics, bedding and chargers. Keep your essentials bag separate.
Should I clean before or after the movers leave?
Both, if possible. Clean as rooms empty, and do a final tidy after the crew has left.