Moving is mostly a logistics problem, and logistics problems are solved with a timeline. Here is everything to do, from eight weeks out to moving day.
8 weeks out
- Set your budget and decide: full-service movers, labor-only, or DIY truck.
- Get 2-3 moving quotes. Book early for summer - May through August fills up fast.
- Start a folder for quotes, receipts, and dates.
6 weeks out
- Declutter room by room. The cheapest thing to move is the thing you do not move.
- Gather supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers.
- Measure big furniture and doorways if you are downsizing.
4 weeks out
- Start packing what you rarely use - off-season clothes, books, decor.
- Change your address with USPS, banks, employer, and subscriptions.
- Arrange utility transfers or shut-offs: electric, gas, water, internet.
2 weeks out
- Confirm the movers in writing - date, time, address, price.
- Pack most of the house, labeling boxes by room and contents.
- Use up perishable food and supplies you cannot move.
1 week out
- Pack an essentials box you keep with you: chargers, meds, documents, a change of clothes, basic tools, toilet paper.
- Defrost the fridge and freezer.
- Confirm parking or elevator reservations at both ends.
Moving day
- Be there when movers arrive; point out fragile and priority items.
- Do a final empty-house sweep - closets, cabinets, garage.
- Check the inventory before signing off, and keep valuables and documents on you.
The move itself
Whether you hire a full crew or a couple of movers to load a truck, book vetted local movers on Handiro - post your job free and get quotes, usually within the hour.