The Orchestrated Moves Moving Countdown Checklist

Moving can be a stressful time, there’s no doubt about that. When should you get a mover? When should you tell your doctor or veterinarian that you’re leaving? This checklist will ease the process and you identify what needs to be done and when!

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On the move? Click the button below to download this guide as a .pdf!


8 weeks before your move

  • Obtain competitive estimates from movers (we recommend 2-3)

    • Be sure to ask the following questions:

      • Is estimate done on-site?

      • How is pricing determined?

      • Is the quote binding or non-binding?

      • What insurance is included?

        • (You may want to contact your insurance company for additional coverage)

      • What additional charges may arise?

        • (What if I have additional stops?)

      • Make sure you have a copy of signed contract.

  • Start using up cleaning supplies, canned & frozen food.


6 weeks before your move

  • Notify doctor, dentist, and veterinarian of your move and ask for referrals (if moving to a new city)

    • Transfer records, if necessary

  • Send any furniture, drapes, and carpets out for repair and cleaning.

    • (If moving local, have these delivered to your new address)


5 weeks before your move

  • Conduct a room-to-room survey.

    • Sort items to keep, donate, discard, or sell.

      • Remember to keep donation receipts for tax purposes.

  • Cancel clubs and services that may require at least a 30-day notice.


4 weeks before your move

  • Photograph valuable items.

  • Reserve elevator for move day(s).

  • If needed, request No Parking signs from your city government.


3 weeks before your move

Notify companies of changeover to have utilities disconnected in your old house. Arrange hook-up for your new home.

  • (If having cable installed in new home arrange for technician to come late in the day on move day)


2 weeks before your move

  • Obtain change of address cards (or complete online).

  • Notify magazines, newspapers, banks, lawyers, doctors, friends & family of your move and new address.

  • Arrange bank account transfer if necessary.

  • Make lodging arrangements, if needed


1 week before your move

  • Set aside clothes for the week and put in a suitcase.

  • Put valuables, jewelry, documents you may need, prescription medicines, laptop and phone (and chargers!) in a central place.

    • You may want to lock these in the trunk of your car on move day, so they don’t get lost or packed.

  • Leave out a few dishes and utensils to use.


1 day before your move

  • Clean out refrigerator and freezer

  • Get a good night’s sleep!


Move day

  • Have a good breakfast

  • Place valuables the movers are not packing in a safe place

    • Again, you may want to lock these in the trunk of your car.

  • Make sure cars are out of garage or driveway

  • Make sure a box is created for sheets, toilet paper, toiletries, and other necessities

    • It’s helpful to label this box “open first” so you can locate those items immediately.

  • Check for damage before you sign anything


Download a PDF Version

On the move? Click the button below to download this guide as a .pdf!