The Ultimate Moving House Checklist - Printable PDF

Planning a house move? Our Ultimate Moving Checklist has got you covered. This meticulously designed guide offers practical advice and helpful reminders for a smooth and worry-free move.

15 min read

Moving house can be such an exciting adventure, but let's be real, it can also be a bit overwhelming with a million things to remember, right? Don't worry though, we've got your back! We've put together the ultimate moving checklist to help you stay organised and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

This super handy moving house checklist will walk you through every step of the process, from the very first planning stages to settling into your brand-new home sweet home. Whether you're a newbie to moving or a seasoned pro, trust us, this checklist is an absolute lifesaver. It's like having a trusted friend by your side, guiding you every step of the way.

So, get ready to tackle your next move with ease and confidence. Let's do this! 💪🏠

 4-6 weeks before the move checklist

1. Planning and organisation

• Create a moving binder or digital folder: This will serve as a central hub for all your moving-related documents, receipts, and checklists.
• Research and choose a moving company: Get estimates from several moving companies. Check reviews and insurance policies. At Find a Mover, we've simplified the process of finding an excellent mover. Simply provide us with your moving date, the items you'll be moving, your current location, and your destination. Then, sit back, relax, and let the removalists come to you. We strive to make your moving experience as hassle-free as possible.
• Inventory your belongings: List out significant items you plan to move and decide what to sell, donate, or discard.
• Start a moving budget: Factor in moving company fees, packing supplies, travel costs, and any unexpected expenses.
• Storage Solutions: If you find yourself between places or downsizing, check out local storage facilities. They can be a real lifesaver!

2. Begin decluttering

See our great decluttering tips article for help on decluttering.

• Start with storage areas: Clear out the attic, basement, garage, and shed.
• Go room by room: Decide what to keep, what to sell, what to donate, and what to discard.
• Organise a garage sale: This can help you declutter and raise some funds for the move.
• Dispose of items responsibly: Recycle, donate, or properly dispose of unwanted items.
• Get rid of the big junk: organise rubbish removalists or a free local council collection to get rid of larger junk such as old broken furniture or old mattresses etc.

3. Packing supplies and initial packing

• Purchase or gather packing supplies: This includes moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and labels. Check out our article on The Ultimate Guide to Moving Box Sizes for help choosing the right types of moving boxes.
• Begin packing non-essential items: Seasonal decorations, rarely-used kitchen items, books, and other items you won't need in the next month can be packed early.

4. Address and notifications

• Notify important parties of your upcoming move: This includes employers, schools, and any other relevant institutions.
• Start the change of address process: Notify the post office of your upcoming move.
• Update subscriptions and memberships: Magazine subscriptions, monthly box services, and other recurring deliveries should be updated.

5. Utilities and services

• Schedule utility disconnects: These include water, gas, electricity, Internet services and home phone
• Set up utilities at your new home: Ensure everything will be functioning by the time you move in. This is a great time to compare all your utility providers to other utility companies out there in the market to see if you can get a better rate.

6. Medical and pets

• Transfer medical records: If you're moving far, notify your current doctors and request record transfers to new health professionals.
• Refill prescriptions: Ensure you have enough medication to last until you can establish care in your new location.
• Plan for pet relocation: If you're using a pet moving service, book it now. If you're moving your pet yourself, ensure you have all the necessary supplies.

7. Personal records and documents

• Gather important documents: Birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, titles, and other important documents should be organised and set aside to be moved personally.
• Photograph valuable items: For insurance purposes, it's a good idea to have current photos of valuable possessions.

8. Insurance

• Sort out home and contents Insurance: As you get ready for your new chapter, it's important to take care of your home and contents insurance needs. Let your current insurance company know you're moving house and see if any changes to your policy are needed. Make sure you set up your new insurance policy before moving in to ensure you're covered from day one. Keep all the relevant documents in a safe and easily accessible place.
• Moving transit Insurance: You can typically obtain transit insurance through your chosen moving company, but it's worth researching independent insurance providers as they may offer more comprehensive coverage. Always compare policies, read the fine print, and consider the value and nature of the items you're moving. This way, you rest assured that everything is covered, down to the last teaspoon.

9. Miscellaneous

• Service your vehicle: If you're driving a long distance, ensure your car is in good condition for the journey.
• Book travel arrangements: If you're flying or staying in hotels during your move, make reservations.
• Start using up perishables: Begin to use up food, cleaning supplies, and other perishables that you won't be moving.
• Confirm key collection and settlement date: Make sure to check in with your lawyer/conveyancer or real estate agent to confirm the time for key collection and the settlement date. These details are important as they'll help you plan your moving day.

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 2-4 weeks before the move checklist

1. Continue packing

• Pack infrequently used items: Start packing items that you won't need immediately but might use occasionally, like extra kitchenware, most of your clothes, and hobby-related items.
• Label boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and its intended room at the new place. Consider using coloured labels for different rooms.
• Prepare an essentials box: Pack a box of items you'll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, important medications, chargers, and some basic kitchen items.

2. Confirm moving logistics

• Confirm arrangements with movers: If you hired professional removalists, call to confirm the date, time, and other specifics of your move.
• Arrange for parking: Ensure there's space for the moving truck near both your old and new residences. You may need to get permits or reserve spaces.
• Plan the moving day layout: Think about where the movers should start, which items need special attention, and how things will go into the truck.

3. Home-related tasks

• Begin cleaning: Start cleaning rooms you've already packed up. This will save you time on moving day.
• Make minor repairs: If you're leaving a rented place and want your deposit back, or if you've sold your home and have agreed to make certain repairs, now is the time to do it.

4. Personal and family preparations

• Transfer school records: If moving with kids, make sure their new school has all the necessary documents.
• Pet preparations: Confirm any travel plans for pets and ensure you have necessary items ready, like carriers or calming remedies.
• Notify friends and family: Let close ones know of your move and provide them with your new address.

5. Changing address and admin tasks

• Change your address: Notify banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and other essential services about your move.
• Return borrowed items: This includes library books and anything else you might have borrowed from neighbours or friends.
• Collect items: Pick up any dry cleaning, items in storage, or any other belongings from places outside your home.

6. Preparing new home

• Check access: Ensure you have keys, codes, or any access means to your new home.
• Connect essential services: Make sure utilities like water, electricity, and gas are set up to start on your move-in day.
• Safety check: Inspect smoke alarms, security systems, and any safety features in your new home.
• Pre-move visits: If your new home is nearby, how about some pre-move visits? It's a chance to measure spaces and ensure that all your large items fit seamlessly into the floor plan of your new place.

7. Miscellaneous

• Dispose of hazardous materials: Items like paint, propane tanks, and certain cleaning supplies cannot be moved in the moving truck. Use them up or dispose of them properly.
• Back up your computer: Ensure your digital data is backed up and secure.
• Separate valuables: jewellery, important documents, and other valuable items should be set aside to be moved personally.

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 1 Week vefore the move checklist

1. Finalise packing

• Finish packing most items: By now, most of your belongings should be boxed up in packing boxes, except for essentials and daily-use items.
• Prepare a suitcase: Pack a suitcase as if you were going on a week-long trip. This ensures you have easy access to clothes and essentials for the days just before and after the move.
• Prepare appliances: If you're moving appliances, defrost the freezer and clean out the fridge. Ensure washing machines and dishwashers are empty and clean.

2. Confirm moving details

• Re-confirm with movers: Double-check arrival times and any last-minute details.
• Prepare payment: If you're using a moving service, ensure you have the means to pay them, whether it's cash, check, or another form of payment.
• Prepare for unexpected weather: Check the forecast for your moving day. If rain or other unfavourable weather is expected, make provisions like plastic sheeting, mats, or extra umbrellas.

3. House preparations

• Finish any cleaning: Clean rooms, hallways, and any common areas as they empty out.
• Dispose of trash: Make sure to take out all the garbage before moving day.
• Separate items to transport personally: Set aside boxes or items you plan to transport yourself, so they don't accidentally get loaded onto the moving truck.

4. Personal preparations

• Refill prescriptions: Make sure you have all the necessary medications for the next couple of weeks.
• Prepare meals: Think about easy meals for the last days when kitchenware is packed, and consider having takeout options for moving day.
• Childcare/Pet care: If applicable, arrange for someone to watch your kids or pets during the actual move.

5. Double-check details for the new place

• Re-confirm utilities: Ensure all utilities will be turned on and functioning upon your arrival.
• Plan the layout: Decide in advance where larger pieces of furniture will go to make the unloading process more straightforward.
• Check access routes: Ensure there's a clear path for moving large items into your new home.

6. Emotional and mental prep

• Say your goodbyes: If you're moving far, take some time to say farewell to neighbours, friends, or favourite places.
• Schedule breaks: While it's a busy time, ensure you have moments of rest or relaxation each day to avoid burnout.
• Visualise the move: Take a few minutes to picture moving day going smoothly, which can mentally prepare you for the day ahead.

7. Documentation and essentials

• Keep essential documents accessible: This includes identification, moving paperwork, property documents, and any other critical documentation.
• Charge electronics: Ensure phones, laptops, and other devices are fully charged for moving day.

8. Miscellaneous

• Return items: If you've borrowed items like tools or dishes from neighbours, now's the time to return them.
• Retrieve items: Collect any last-minute items from places like the dry cleaner or repair shops.
• Drain equipment: If you're moving lawn equipment, empty them of fuel.

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The day before the move checklist:

1. Final packing check

• Pack last-minute items: These are usually personal essentials you've been using up to the day of the move, such as toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes.
• Set aside important documents: This includes your moving truck reservation, IDs, and any other essential papers.
• Check all rooms and closets: Do a sweep to make sure nothing has been overlooked or left behind.
• Prepare an essentials box/bag: This should have everything you need for the first day/night in your new place (toothbrush, pyjamas, important medications, snacks, toilet paper, etc.).

2. Prep work for removalists or helping friends

• Dismantle furniture: Take apart any furniture that needs disassembly for the move. Keep screws and fittings in labelled bags.
• Clear paths: Ensure that hallways and paths are free of clutter or obstacles to make moving easier and safer.
• Designate a no-pack zone: If there are items you're transporting yourself, place them in a specific area and inform movers or helpers to leave them be.
• Confirm start time: Reach out to your moving company or friends/helpers to confirm the start time and any last-minute details.

3. Home maintenance

• Empty and defrost the refrigerator: Clean it and leave it open to dry.
• Disconnect appliances: Turn off and unplug appliances like the washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher.
• Final trash disposal: Make sure all trash is disposed of, and nothing is left in the bins.

4. Personal preparations

• Charge your devices: Ensure your phone and other essential electronics are fully charged.
• Prepare food and drinks: Have easy breakfast items for the morning and consider ordering takeout for the evening meal. Ensure you have snacks and drinks for moving day.
• Pack a personal bag: Apart from the essentials box, have a small bag with personal items you'll want close at hand (wallet, keys, phone and charger).

5. New home preparations

• Check the route: If you're driving, double-check the route to your new home, considering traffic and any potential disruptions.
• Coordinate key pickup: If you haven't already, make sure you've got the keys or access to your new place.
• Communicate with the new place: If you're moving into a shared building, it's a good idea to give your neighbours or the management a heads-up about your move. This way, we can all work together to keep any disruptions to a minimum.

6. Emotional prep

• Say final goodbyes: Spend some quiet moments in your soon-to-be-old home, reminiscing about memories. If moving far, say goodbye to neighbours.
• Rest: It’s going to be a long day ahead. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep.

7. Miscellaneous

• Set alarms: You'll want to start early, so set an alarm to ensure you're up and ready.
• Check the weather: Look at the forecast for moving day and make any necessary adjustments to your plan (like keeping rain covers handy).
• Prepare payment: If using professional movers, ensure you have a way to pay them, be it cash, check, or another form.

By the end of this day, everything should be ready to go. The more you manage to accomplish on this day, the smoother the moving day will likely be. Remember to take a few moments for yourself amidst the chaos—it's a significant transition, after all!

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Moving day checklist

1. Morning preparations

• Wake up early: Give yourself plenty of time to handle unexpected issues.
• Dress comfortably: Wear appropriate clothing for lifting and moving.
• Eat a good breakfast: You'll need the energy for the day.
• Last-minute packing: Pack up the toiletries, bedding, and any other items you used the night before.
• Set aside important items: Ensure that essential items like wallets, keys, phones, and important documents are in an easily accessible bag or container.
• Do a final walkthrough: Ensure nothing is forgotten in closets, drawers, or rooms.
• Prep appliances: Disconnect and defrost the fridge and freezer if not done already.

2. When the Movers Arrive (If you're using a moving company)

• Confirm details: Ensure that the moving truck that shows up is from the company you hired.
• Offer refreshments: It's a kind gesture to have water or snacks available.
• Stay present: Guide them on which items need special care or have specific instructions.

3. Loading the moving truck (if moving yourself)

• Prioritise items: Load items you need the least first (e.g., seasonal items).
• Protect furniture: Use moving blankets or bubble wrap.
• Secure items: Use straps or ropes to ensure items don’t shift during transport.
• Valuable items: Keep any valuable items with you rather than on the moving truck.

4. Before leaving the old house

• Utilities: Make sure all switches are off, and water taps are firmly closed.
• Lock up: Lock all doors and windows.
• Leave keys: If required, leave the keys as pre-arranged, possibly with the real estate agent or the new owners.
• Take photos: Capture the state of the property as you leave, especially if it's a rental.

5. At the new house

• Inspect the property: Check for any damages or issues before moving things in.
• Direct the movers: Guide them on where each box or piece of furniture goes.
• Begin with essentials: Set up beds and essential furniture first, so you have a place to rest.
• Check utilities: Make sure electricity, water, and heating are functioning.
• Unpack a basic kitchen set: Having the means to make a simple meal or snack can be very beneficial.

6. End of day

• Dispose of packing materials: Break down boxes and collect waste.
• Settle in: You don’t need to unpack everything on the first day. Focus on essentials and ensure you have a comfortable space to sleep.
• Thank the movers: If they did a good job, consider giving them a tip.
• Order in: If you're too tired to cook, treat yourself by ordering from a nearby restaurant.

7. Security measures

• Check locks: Ensure that all external doors and windows lock securely. Consider changing the locks if you're uncertain about who might have had access to keys in the past.
• Familiarise yourself: Get to know the exits and entrances of your new home.

Just a friendly reminder, while this list is comprehensive, every move has unique aspects, so make sure to add any requirements to the checklist to fit your specific situation. And hey, moving day rarely goes perfectly, but staying calm and flexible can help smooth over any bumps in the road. Your positive attitude can make all the difference!

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Post-move checklist

1. Unpacking & setting up

• Begin with essentials: Unpack your essentials box/bag first to have immediate access to necessary items.
• Plan the unpacking: Start with larger items and furniture placement, then move to boxes room by room.
• Set up large appliances: If they weren't installed by movers, get your fridge, washing machine, dryer, etc., up and running.
• Assemble furniture: Rebuild any furniture you had to dismantle for the move.

2. Home systems & maintenance

• Check utilities: Make sure water, electricity, gas, and internet are all functioning correctly.
• Test home security: If your new place has a security system, ensure it's operational.
• Locate the fuse box and water meter: It's essential to know where these are in case of emergencies.

3. Address updates & notifications

• Update your address: If not done earlier, notify banks, the post office, insurance providers, and other essential services of your new address.
• Register to vote: Update your voting address.
• Vehicle registration and driver's license: If you've moved to a new state, you'll need to update your car registration details.
• Transfer medical records: If you've switched medical practitioners, ensure your new doctor has all the necessary information.
• Update pet details: If your pets have microchips, update the registered address.

4. Neighborhood & community

• Meet the neighbours: Introduce yourself to your immediate neighbours. It’s always good to establish a friendly rapport.
• Explore the area: Familiarise yourself with local amenities, parks, shops, and restaurants.
• Find essential services: Locate the nearest hospital, pharmacy, police station, and other crucial service points.

5. Shopping & stocking up

• Groceries: Your fridge and pantry will likely be empty, so do a significant grocery shop to stock up.
• Home supplies: You might need new items for your home, like curtains, storage solutions, or additional furniture.

6. Organisational tasks

• Sort out moving expenses: Keep receipts and documentation, especially if your move is work-related, for tax purposes.
• Review your moving company: If you used a professional service, leave a review or provide feedback.
• Change locks: For security reasons, consider changing the locks on your new home if it's a previously owned property.

7. Personal well-being

• Take a break: Moving is stressful, so ensure you take some time to relax and enjoy your new space.
• Re-establish routines: Whether it's a workout schedule, morning routine, or meal planning, getting back into your routines can help you feel settled.
• Throw a housewarming party: Once you're somewhat settled, consider hosting a casual gathering to celebrate your new home.

8. Miscellaneous

• Recycle or dispose of packing materials: Break down boxes for recycling. Some moving companies also offer box return or recycling services.
• Check for left items: Make sure you didn't leave anything behind at your old place, in the moving truck, or in storage.
• Complete repairs or improvements: If there are small fixes or changes you want in your new home, it's best to handle them sooner rather than later.

Hey, just a friendly reminder that settling in takes time. We all have those urgent tasks, but it's totally okay to spread out the rest over weeks. Take it from me, Prioritise what's important for your comfort and security, and then tackle the rest at a pace that feels right for you.

Final thoughts

Moving house is a huge task, but with some careful planning and organisation, you can handle it like a pro! 📦✨ This handy moving checklist is here to help you reduce stress and have a smooth transition to your new home sweet home. Remember, every move is different, so feel free to adjust this list to fit your unique needs.

And hey, it's not just about moving your stuff; it's about starting a new chapter in your life! Take your time to settle in, and before you know it, you'll be saying "home sweet home" in your new place. 🏠❤️