Moving Checklist: Remove the Stress of Moving in 15 Steps

Moving tends to be a combination of excitement and mind-rattling nerves. It's a new adventure and a turn of the page. But, it's also often a startling plunge into new and unfamiliar territory. Above all else, it's a lot of work. Believe it or not, the stress of moving is right up there with divorce, job loss, and death of a loved one. But, fear no more. Whether it's your first move ever, or your fifth move this year, use this checklist to remove the guesswork and stress of moving.

Months Before Moving: No Need to Sound the Alarm

• Decide whether you're going to hire a moving company, rent a moving van, or move yourself using your own equipment. Moving companies and moving vans can be booked solid for several months, especially during the moving season (May through August). The earlier you book, the better rates you'll get. Just make sure the moving company is licensed with the FMCSA.
• Submit a change of address form at usps.com. Also, don't forget to notify banks, credit cards, insurers, and healthcare providers. Otherwise, the next person to move into your home could be getting your sensitive information.
• Make any necessary repairs and touchups to your old home or apartment.
• Start purging items that aren't worth moving. Whether you sell them or toss them, some items just aren't worth the cost or work of moving.
• Make sure you have plenty of moving supplies. Using specialized supplies will increase efficiency and help prevent damage when moving.
• Begin packing as early as possible, starting with your least-used items. Label boxes by room and contents. Then, for quick reference, create a comprehensive inventory of which items went in what boxes. Use colored stickers for added organization and less writing.
• Give yourself some breathing room by scheduling time off work.
• If you're moving without assistance from professionals, enlist the help of family and friends. Don’t put all the work on yourself.

Weeks Before Moving: Don’t Resist, Keep Pushing

• Schedule your current utilities to be shut-off or transferred to your new address.
• Continue packing as much as possible.
• If you have access to your new space, make sure it's clean. There will never be an easier time to clean or paint a wall than when the space is empty.
• Remind your enlisted moving helpers of the day and time you need them. If you're renting a truck or hiring workers, call the company to confirm dates and times.

The Day Before Moving Day: Fight the Fatigue

• Pack your essentials, like bedding, toilet paper, snacks, soap, plates, cups, utensils, and cleaning supplies in one box. Then, set it aside to be loaded last so that it will be the first box brought into your new home.
• Finish packing all other belongings so you can start moving bright and early the next day.
• Get plenty of sleep.

Moving Day: Embrace the Change

Learn more about moving blankets with our handy guide to moving blankets and furniture pads.