Moving Checklist: Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Move

Whether you’ve secured the perfect apartment for rent or just purchased your dream home, the only task left is transitioning into your new living space. We won’t lie to you — moving is no small feat. The entire process can feel daunting, from decluttering and packing to transporting your belongings and perhaps enticing your friends to assist. The reassuring news is that it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Strategic planning and organization in advance can significantly alleviate the stress on moving days.

This is where a moving checklist comes in. Knowing when to do things – and in what order to do them – will put your mind at ease when details of the move begin to stress you out. So whether you’re just moving across the street or across the country, use this Redfin moving checklist, that’s jam packed with tips from moving experts, to help you every step of the way.

Two Months in Advance

Forward medical records and transfer prescriptions. For long-distance and cross-country moves, you will need to find a new doctor and pharmacy. Talk to your current providers and ask that your medical records and prescriptions be forwarded.

Examine the floor plan of your new home. If you want to be happy with the décor in your new home, you need to know the layout. Now is the time to examine blueprints and measure furniture so you can visualize where everything will live in the new home.

Schedule painting and repairs. If you need to paint or make any improvements to your new home, make arrangements before your belongings are moved in. Scheduling the job(s) ahead of time will help you avoid stress later.

Request vacation. You will likely need time off for the move, so ask your boss now, before life gets hectic.

Complete change of address forms. Make sure to fill in the change of address forms and give your new address to friends and relatives.

Budget the costs. Depending on how far you are moving and how many items you have, a move can cost anywhere from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. You can save money by sourcing your own moving supplies like boxes, rope, and protective materials.

Cassie Long with Horizon Realty suggests a budget that factors “moving expenses, travel, movers, and move-out cleaners.”