The Ultimate Moving Checklist (With Timeline)

Planning a move can feel overwhelming, but with the right checklist and timeline, the process becomes manageable—even enjoyable. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, having a structured plan helps reduce stress and ensures nothing gets left behind. This comprehensive moving checklist (with a detailed timeline) is designed to keep you organized, on schedule, and ready for moving day.

If you’re looking for a convenient place to store your belongings during a move, Goodfellas Storage offers secure, affordable solutions across multiple states. Explore ourLocations to find the facility nearest you.

8 Weeks Before the Move: Start Planning

Create a Moving Binder

Start a binder or digital folder to keep all documents, estimates, receipts, and lists in one place.

Declutter Your Home

Go room by room and sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, and toss. Less to move means lower costs and less stress.

Research Moving Companies or Truck Rentals

Start comparing rates, reading reviews, and requesting quotes from professional movers or rental services. Book early for the best rates.

Consider Storage Options

Not everything needs to move at once. Renting a storage unit gives you flexibility and peace of mind. Use ourSize Guide to find the perfect unit for your needs.

Create a Moving Budget

Account for moving supplies, deposits, movers or rental trucks, cleaning fees, and storage costs.

6 Weeks Before the Move: Begin Prep Work

Order Moving Supplies

Stock up on boxes, packing tape, labels, bubble wrap, and markers. Specialized boxes for TVs, dishes, and wardrobe items can make packing easier.

Notify Important Parties

Let schools, doctors, banks, insurance companies, and your employer know about your move. Schedule medical records transfers and school enrollments as needed.

Start Packing Non-Essentials

Pack up items you rarely use (seasonal decor, books, extra linens) and label boxes clearly by room.

Reserve a Storage Unit

If your timeline requires temporary storage, now is the time to lock in a unit. Visit ourLocations to reserve a unit nearby.

Consider Tenant Protection Plans

Protect your belongings while in storage or in transit. Learn more about ourTenant Protection options to cover unforeseen circumstances.

4 Weeks Before the Move: Tackle Admin Tasks

Change Your Address

Submit a change of address form to the USPS and update online accounts, billing addresses, and subscriptions.

Schedule Utility Transfers

Contact electric, gas, water, trash, internet, and cable providers to arrange for service transfers or disconnections.

Confirm Moving Help

Ensure your movers or rental trucks are booked and confirm your moving date with all parties involved.

Continue Packing

Focus on packing room by room. Donate unwanted items and avoid packing things you’ll need in the next few weeks.

2 Weeks Before the Move: Finalize Details

Pack a Moving Essentials Bag

Pack personal items, medications, toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, snacks, and important documents in a suitcase or duffel bag.

Confirm Details with Movers or Rental Company

Double-check arrival times, parking requirements, and address details.

Arrange for Child and Pet Care

Make plans for kids and pets on moving day to keep everyone safe and stress-free.

Back Up Your Digital Files

Whether it's family photos or important work documents, back everything up to the cloud or an external hard drive.

1 Week Before the Move: Get Ready to Go

Clean Your Current Home

Do a deep clean or hire a service. Leave the place tidy and ready for the next occupants.

Finish Packing

Leave only essentials unpacked. Label remaining boxes and take photos of high-value items for insurance.

Dispose of Hazardous Materials

Properly dispose of paint, aerosols, propane, and other items that movers or storage units won't allow.

Plan for Final Trash Pickup

Schedule a final trash and recycling collection if needed.

Moving Day: Stay Focused and Flexible

Do a Final Walkthrough

Double-check closets, drawers, garage, attic, and outdoor areas to ensure nothing is left behind.

Supervise the Move

Be available to answer questions and provide direction to movers or friends helping out.

Protect Your Belongings

If you’re using a storage unit, make sure your items are properly packed, labeled, and protected. Use ourTenant Protection to safeguard your valuables.

Lock Up

Turn off all lights, close windows, and lock all doors before leaving.

After the Move: Settle In

Unpack Essentials First

Start with kitchen items, toiletries, and everyday clothing. Take your time with less urgent boxes.

Inspect for Damage

Check belongings for damage and report any issues to your mover or storage provider promptly.

Register Your Vehicle and Update Licenses

If you moved to a new state, make sure you update your driver's license, registration, and vehicle insurance.

Get to Know Your New Neighborhood

Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and emergency services. Introduce yourself to neighbors.

Visit Your Storage Unit

If you placed items in storage, visit your unit to ensure everything is secure and accessible. Need help? Reach out through ourContact page for assistance.

Why Choose Goodfellas Storage?

At Goodfellas Storage, we make your move easier with convenient, secure storage options in multiple locations across the Southeast. Whether you’re downsizing, in-between homes, or simply want to declutter during your move, we have a storage solution that fits your needs and budget.

• Drive-up Access for easy loading and unloading
• Fenced and Gated Facilities for maximum security
• Month-to-Month Rentals for flexible timelines
• Tenant Protection Plans for peace of mind

Explore ourLocations, compare unit sizes with ourSize Guide, orContact Us today to reserve your unit.

A well-planned move starts with a solid strategy. Use this ultimate moving checklist to guide your steps, reduce stress, and make your transition as smooth as possible. When you need storage you can trust,Goodfellas Storage has your back.