Moving checklist
A moving checklist covering what to do before, during and after the move, from notices to unpacking.

8 WEEKS BEFORE
- Set your moving date
- Go through your belongings: sell, donate or throw away what you do not need
- Collect quotes from at least three moving companies, or plan a DIY move
- Check your lease or contract for notice periods and give notice
- Plan how you will move pets, plants and valuables

4 TO 6 WEEKS BEFORE
- Book the movers or rent a van
- Order boxes, tape, bubble wrap and markers
- Start packing items you rarely use
- Arrange time off work for moving day
- Plan school or childcare changes
- Book parking or a street permit for the moving vehicle

2 TO 3 WEEKS BEFORE
- Tell your bank, employer, insurers and subscriptions your new address
- Set up mail forwarding
- Schedule electricity, gas, water and internet at the new home
- Schedule disconnection at the old home for the day after you leave
- Arrange cleaning of the old place if required
- Use up food in the freezer and cupboards

THE WEEK BEFORE
- Pack room by room and label each box with room and contents
- Keep important documents and valuables with you, not in the van
- Defrost the freezer and clean the fridge
- Disassemble furniture and keep screws in labelled bags
- Confirm the arrival time with the movers
- Charge phones and pack chargers last

MOVING DAY
- Take meter readings at the old home
- Walk through every room, closet and cupboard before leaving
- Do a final check of windows, doors and lights
- Hand over keys as agreed
- Take meter readings at the new home
- Check the delivery against your inventory and note any damage

FIRST DAYS IN THE NEW HOME
- Unpack bedrooms and the kitchen first
- Find the fuse box and water shutoff
- Change the locks or ask for new keys
- Test smoke alarms
- Update your address with the remaining services
- Introduce yourself to your neighbours