Moving checklist
From giving notice to settling in: 39 things to do, in order, to check off on your phone or print.
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Time: about 2 months
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Two months before
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Your lease and state law set how much notice you owe. Keep a copy of what you send.
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Ask for an in-home or video survey. An interstate mover must have a USDOT number: look it up on FMCSA’s site.
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Fewer boxes, fewer hours to pay for. For big items, book your city’s bulk trash pickup.
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Installation slots can fill up weeks ahead: book it first.
One month before
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Have the address and date ready; some utilities ask for a deposit.
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Rules and lead times vary by city: check your city’s website.
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Some buildings ask for the mover’s certificate of insurance.
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You can file up to 90 days ahead: online with a $1.25 identity check, or on the paper form at a Post Office. UK: Royal Mail Redirection is paid.
Two weeks before
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A box that doesn’t rattle when you shake it is a safe box.
One week before
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For an interstate move, the mover must give you FMCSA’s booklet on your rights and responsibilities.
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Chargers, sheets, towels, toilet paper, soap, medications, tools, a light bulb, snacks.
The day before
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Pay by card if you can. FMCSA lists a demand for cash or a large deposit before the move as a red flag.
Moving day
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They help you get your security deposit back.
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Write any damage on the delivery paperwork. After an interstate move, you have 9 months to file a claim.
After the move
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Each state sets its own deadline: check your DMV’s website. UK: tell the DVLA; it’s free, and not doing it can cost you up to £1,000.
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You need to, even after a move within your state: start at vote.gov. UK: register again at your new address on GOV.UK.
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Tell your car insurer where the car is now kept. UK: tell the council, for council tax.
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State law, and sometimes local law, sets how long your landlord has to return it. UK: in England, within 10 days of agreeing the amount.
New home
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Good to know
- Deadlines and rules change from state to state and city to city (notice, deposits, parking, driver’s license): the note under each item tells you where to check.
- Moving between states? Your mover is regulated by the federal government (FMCSA): check its USDOT number, get written estimates and read every document before you sign it.
- Your checkmarks stay on your device, in this browser. Nobody else sees them, and you don’t need an account.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I start?
About two months before, mainly for your lease notice and to book movers and internet, which fill up fast in summer.
How long does USPS forward my mail?
First-Class Mail is forwarded for 12 months; magazines and newsletters for 60 days. You can file up to 90 days before you move, online with a $1.25 identity check or on paper at a Post Office.
What if the movers damaged something?
Note it on the delivery paperwork before they leave, and take photos. For an interstate move, you have 9 months from delivery to file a written claim with the mover.
Next step
I’m not an accountant or a financial advisor. This is an estimate, for information only. Check with a professional before you decide.
For leases, deposits and deadlines, if you’re unsure, check with your city, your state or a professional.