The Orchestrated Moves Moving Countdown Checklist

Moving can be a stressful time, there’s no doubt about that. When should you get a mover? When should you tell your doctor or veterinarian that you’re leaving? This checklist will ease the process and you identify what needs to be done and when!

On the move? Click the button below to download this guide as a .pdf!


8 weeks before your move

  • Obtain competitive estimates from movers (we recommend 2-3)

    • Be sure to ask the following questions:

      • Is estimate done on-site?

      • How is pricing determined?

      • Is the quote binding or non-binding?

      • What insurance is included?

        • (You may want to contact your insurance company for additional coverage)

      • What additional charges may arise?

        • (What if I have additional stops?)

      • Make sure you have a copy of signed contract.

  • Start using up cleaning supplies, canned & frozen food.


6 weeks before your move

  • Notify doctor, dentist, and veterinarian of your move and ask for referrals (if moving to a new city)

    • Transfer records, if necessary

  • Send any furniture, drapes, and carpets out for repair and cleaning.

    • (If moving local, have these delivered to your new address)


5 weeks before your move

  • Conduct a room-to-room survey.

    • Sort items to keep, donate, discard, or sell.

      • Remember to keep donation receipts for tax purposes.

  • Cancel clubs and services that may require at least a 30-day notice.


4 weeks before your move

  • Photograph valuable items.

  • Reserve elevator for move day(s).

  • If needed, request No Parking signs from your city government.


3 weeks before your move

Notify companies of changeover to have utilities disconnected in your old house. Arrange hook-up for your new home.

  • (If having cable installed in new home arrange for technician to come late in the day on move day)


2 weeks before your move

  • Obtain change of address cards (or complete online).

  • Notify magazines, newspapers, banks, lawyers, doctors, friends & family of your move and new address.

  • Arrange bank account transfer if necessary.

  • Make lodging arrangements, if needed


1 week before your move

  • Set aside clothes for the week and put in a suitcase.

  • Put valuables, jewelry, documents you may need, prescription medicines, laptop and phone (and chargers!) in a central place.

    • You may want to lock these in the trunk of your car on move day, so they don’t get lost or packed.

  • Leave out a few dishes and utensils to use.


1 day before your move

  • Clean out refrigerator and freezer

  • Get a good night’s sleep!


Move day

  • Have a good breakfast

  • Place valuables the movers are not packing in a safe place

    • Again, you may want to lock these in the trunk of your car.

  • Make sure cars are out of garage or driveway

  • Make sure a box is created for sheets, toilet paper, toiletries, and other necessities

    • It’s helpful to label this box “open first” so you can locate those items immediately.

  • Check for damage before you sign anything


On the move? Click the button below to download this guide as a .pdf!