Eight weeks out
- Get a price range and shortlist movers. Check each one's record.
- Check your lease notice period, or your closing date.
- Start sorting: keep, sell, give away, throw away.
- Find out if your employer offers any relocation help.
Six weeks out
- Do your survey and get written estimates, based on the same inventory.
- Ask your buildings at both ends for move rules in writing.
- Measure large furniture against your new home.
- Collect school and medical records.
Four weeks out
- Book your mover and confirm the type of estimate and delivery window.
- Choose your valuation coverage.
- Book elevators, parking and any certificate of insurance.
- Transfer or cancel utilities and internet.
- Forward your mail through USPS.
Federal pest rule: spongy moth
If you're leaving an area under federal spongy moth quarantine, USDA requires you to inspect and remove egg masses from household goods, especially outdoor items such as grills and patio furniture. Check USDA's map for your county, and do this before loading.
Two weeks out
- Use up food and cleaning supplies. Don't pack anything hazardous or perishable.
- Prepare grills and mowers by draining fuel.
- Confirm travel and hotels.
- Start packing rooms you don't use often.
Three days before loading
- Read the bill of lading, which you should have by now.
- Finish packing, or be ready for the packing crew.
- Defrost the freezer and clean the fridge.
- Back up your computers.
Moving day
- Be there, and check the inventory before signing.
- Keep your keys, documents and medication with you.
- Take meter readings and photos of the empty home.
Your first-week kit
Clothes, bedding, towels, basic kitchen supplies, chargers, medication, documents, a small tool kit, toilet paper, soap, pet supplies and children's favorites.
Delivery day
- Check items against the inventory.
- Write down any damage or missing items before signing. Federal rules give you at least nine months to file a claim, but notes made at delivery help the most.
- Check the bill and how much you owe at delivery. See binding vs non-binding estimates.
First month
- Switch your license and registration.
- Update insurance, voter registration, doctors and banks.
- Keep your moving paperwork until any claim is settled.
- See establishing residency.