Moving to a new home can feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan, and helpful movers on your side, you can keep everything on track and avoid last-minute stress. Use this checklist to stay organized before, during, and after your move.
Before Your Move
- Sort and Declutter
Go room-by-room and donate, sell, or toss anything you don’t want to bring with you.
- Gather Moving Supplies
Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, labels, furniture covers, etc.
- Book Your Movers or Rental Truck
Schedule professionals or reserve a truck well in advance, especially during peak season or the end of the month.
- Create a Moving Binder or Folder
Keep track of estimates, receipts, inventory, and utility info.
- Plan for Time Off
Request days off work for packing and moving.
- Start Packing Non-Essentials
Begin with decor, off-season clothing, extra linens, books, etc.
- Change Your Address
- Visit USPS.com to set up mail forwarding.
- Update your address with:
- Bank and credit card companies
- Insurance providers (home, auto, medical)
- Employer and HR
- IRS and state tax agency
- DMV (driver’s license and vehicle registration)
- Any subscription services or online retailers
- Friends and family
- Bank and credit card companies
- Visit USPS.com to set up mail forwarding.
- Transfer/Set Up Utilities
- Schedule to turn off electricity, water, gas, and internet at your old home.
- Schedule to start services at your new home on move-in day.
- Don’t forget garbage pickup, security system, and HOA if applicable.
- Schedule to turn off electricity, water, gas, and internet at your old home.
- Notify Your Current Landlord or HOA
If required, give written notice and coordinate move-out inspection.
1 Week Before Your Move
- Pack Essentials Separately (some of this will be on the last day)
One box or bag with what you’ll need the first night:
- Toiletries
- Clothes
- Chargers
- Important documents
- Medications
- Basic tools
- Snacks/water
- Toiletries
- Confirm Movers or Truck Rental
Double-check dates, times, and access instructions.
- Label All Boxes Clearly
Include room names and “Fragile” labels where needed.
- Clean Out the Fridge and Pantry
Eat, toss, or donate what you won’t bring.
- Dispose of Hazardous Items
Properly dispose of paint, chemicals, propane, etc. Movers won’t transport them.
Moving Day
- Do a Final Walkthrough
Check closets, cabinets, attic, garage, yard, and behind doors.
- Take Photos of the Empty Property
Especially if you’re renting — to document the condition.
- Turn Off Lights, Water, and Thermostat
Shut everything down safely unless otherwise instructed.
- Leave Keys, Garage Openers, and Instructions
For the new owner, landlord, or property manager.
After You Move In
- Check Utilities Are On
Electricity, water, gas, internet, HVAC, and appliances.
- Inspect for Any Damage or Issues
Make notes or take photos for documentation.
- Introduce Yourself to the Neighbors
A quick hello goes a long way.
- Unpack Essentials First
Focus on the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
- Update the Address Again
Double-check that:
- Driver’s license and voter registration are updated
- Pet microchip registry (if applicable)
- Local library or school district records
- Driver’s license and voter registration are updated
- Update Emergency Services Info
Make sure your new address is linked to 911 dispatch (especially for VoIP phone services).
Optional but Helpful Extras
- Transfer Medical Records
From your old providers to new ones.
- Reorder Checks
With your updated address.
- Set Up a Maintenance Schedule
For HVAC, pest control, lawn care, etc.
- Secure Your New Home
Change the locks, update alarm codes, and check smoke/carbon monoxide detectors.
Pro Tip: Use color-coded labels or stickers for each room to make unloading and unpacking much easier!
For help with your move, whether it’s unloading PODS, packing everything in your home, or simply loading and unloading your belongings safely and professionally, Sunshine Movers Inc. can help. Give us a call at (727) 934-2020 or reach us online for a free estimate.
