Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting yet stressful experiences a person can go through. It’s a moment filled with anticipation, a fresh start, and the promise of new memories. But let’s face it—without a solid plan, it can quickly turn into a chaotic mess of missed deadlines, lost boxes, and mounting frustration. That’s where a well-crafted moving checklist comes into play. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned mover, having a clear roadmap can make all the difference.
For those working with trusted real estate advisors like Harrison T Lefrak, the homebuying process often feels more streamlined and professional. But even with expert guidance on your side, the move itself requires personal effort, planning, and coordination. So how do you keep everything on track from the moment your offer is accepted to the day you’re turning the key in the lock of your new front door? Let’s walk through the ultimate moving checklist that will help make your transition smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable.
Eight Weeks Before the Move
Start early—this can’t be stressed enough. As soon as your offer is accepted and you have a move-in date, it’s time to put the wheels in motion. Begin by sorting through your belongings. Decide what’s coming with you, what can be donated, and what’s just taking up space. This is a golden opportunity to declutter and lighten your load.
Next, begin gathering moving supplies. You’ll need boxes in various sizes, packing tape, labels, and markers. This is also the time to start researching moving companies if you’re hiring professionals. Get quotes, check reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions. If you’re planning a DIY move, consider reserving a moving truck in advance—especially if you’re moving during peak season.
Six Weeks Out
Once you’ve chosen a moving company or secured a truck rental, confirm all the details in writing. Begin packing items you don’t use on a daily basis. Think seasonal clothing, decor, books, and seldom-used kitchenware. As you pack, label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs in. This small step will save you hours of frustration later.
If you have children, now is a good time to talk to their schools and arrange for records to be transferred. Pets also need attention—ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and consider how you’ll transport them safely.
People who’ve worked with professionals like Harrison Lefrak often report how important it is to stay ahead of schedule. Waiting until the last minute can create unnecessary pressure, and you don’t want to be scrambling to catch up in the final days before your move.
Four Weeks Left
It’s crunch time. File a change-of-address form with the post office and start updating your address with banks, credit card companies, subscription services, and any other institutions that need to know. Notify your utility providers and schedule shut-off or transfer dates for electricity, water, gas, and internet.
It’s also wise to plan out meals for the remaining weeks so you can begin using up what’s in your pantry and freezer. This way, you won’t be hauling bags of frozen food across town or wasting good groceries.
If possible, visit your new home and take measurements of doorways, staircases, and large rooms. This will help you determine if your furniture will fit, and allow you to plan your layout in advance.
Two Weeks to Go
Now that moving day is in sight, it’s time to ramp things up. Confirm your moving arrangements again, double-check arrival times, and make sure everyone is on the same page. Continue packing, focusing now on the items you use more regularly but can still live without for a couple of weeks.
Create a moving day essentials kit. Include toiletries, a few days of clothing, important documents, chargers, medications, and snacks. Trust us—you’ll want to know exactly where these things are without digging through boxes in the middle of the night.
Take time to say goodbye to neighbors and plan your farewell if you’ve lived in the home for a while. A little closure helps you mentally prepare for what lies ahead.
One Week Before
You’re in the final stretch. Pack the remainder of your belongings, leaving only the bare essentials for the last couple of days. Defrost your freezer, clean out your fridge, and begin the deep-cleaning process for your old home. If you're renting, this step is crucial to getting your security deposit back.
Prepare payment for your movers or rental truck, and keep some cash on hand for tipping or last-minute expenses. You might also want to prepare a small welcome gift for the new homeowners moving into your old place. A kind gesture goes a long way.
At this point, people who’ve followed expert guidance—like those who’ve worked with Harrison Lefrak—often find that the transition feels more manageable. Having a trusted advisor from the start makes the entire homebuying and moving process feel less overwhelming.
Moving Day
The big day is here. Wake up early, have a hearty breakfast, and get started. If you're working with movers, supervise the process and make sure fragile items are handled carefully. Keep your essentials kit close and take a final walkthrough of your old home. Look in every cabinet, closet, and drawer to make sure nothing is left behind.
Upon arrival at your new home, do another walkthrough before anything is unpacked. Check for any immediate issues and make note of any needed repairs. Direct movers where to place boxes and furniture—it’ll save you time and energy later.
By the end of the day, unpack your essentials, make your bed, and take a moment to breathe. You made it.
After the Move
Once you’re in, resist the urge to tackle everything in one day. Unpack room by room, starting with the kitchen and bathrooms. Hang curtains or blinds for privacy, set up your bed, and then slowly work through the remaining boxes.
Introduce yourself to your neighbors and start exploring your new community. If you worked with someone like Harrison Lefrak, chances are you already got a good sense of the area and amenities. But nothing beats experiencing it for yourself.
Remember, moving is a process. It takes time to settle in and make a house feel like home. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey.
With the right plan, the right people, and a little bit of organization, moving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, it can be the beginning of something truly great.
Credits:
Andrew Ford