Ultimate Residential Moving Checklist

Sort and Declutter: Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away.
Research Moving Companies: Get quotes from multiple movers and read reviews.
Create a Moving Binder: Organize all moving-related documents, receipts, and notes.
Budget for Moving Expenses: Include moving supplies, transportation, cleaning, and potential new home setup costs.
Plan for Packing Supplies: Start collecting boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.

Notify Landlord/Lease: If renting, notify your landlord and review your lease for moving-out terms.
Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you don’t use daily.
Label Boxes: Clearly mark boxes with their contents and the room they belong in.
Set Up Moving Sale: Plan a garage sale or list items online to sell unwanted belongings.
Transfer School Records: If you have children, arrange to transfer their school records.

Change Address: Submit a change of address form with the post office and notify important parties (banks, credit cards, insurance, etc.).
Schedule Utilities: Arrange for disconnection at your current home and connection at your new home (electricity, gas, water, internet, etc.).
Confirm Moving Details: Confirm your moving date and details with the moving company.
Plan for Pets and Plants: Make arrangements for transporting pets and plants.
Update Voter Registration: Update your address for voting purposes.

Finalize Packing: Continue packing and label boxes with specific details.
Arrange for Child and Pet Care: Ensure that children and pets are cared for on moving day.
Service Vehicles: Get your car serviced if you’re driving a long distance.
Dispose of Hazardous Materials: Safely dispose of items that cannot be moved (paints, propane, chemicals).

Pack a Survival Kit: Include essentials for the first few days in your new home (clothes, toiletries, important documents).
Defrost Freezer: If moving a refrigerator, defrost it at least 24 hours before moving.
Confirm Details with Movers: Reconfirm the arrival time, contact information, and payment details with the moving company.
Prepare Appliances: Disconnect and prepare appliances for moving.
Finish Packing: Ensure all items are packed and ready to go.

Protect Floors: Use mats or blankets to protect floors during the move.
Guide Movers: Be available to answer questions and guide movers.
Final Walkthrough: Check all rooms, closets, and cabinets to ensure nothing is left behind.
Verify Inventory: Ensure all items are loaded onto the truck and verify the movers’ inventory list.
Secure New Home: Make sure utilities are on and perform a quick inspection before movers arrive.

Unpack Essentials: Start with the kitchen and essentials box.
Set Up Utilities: Ensure all utilities are functioning properly.
Check for Damages: Inspect items for any damages and report them immediately.
Update Address: Confirm that your mail is being forwarded and update your address with any remaining services.
Explore Neighborhood: Take some time to familiarize yourself with your new neighborhood.