Your Ultimate 6 Month Moving Timeline Checklist for a Smooth Transition

Getting ready to move? Starting your preparations six months ahead gives you plenty of time to plan, organize, and execute without last-minute stress. This comprehensive timeline checklist guides you through each stage, from budgeting and de-cluttering to packing and setting up utilities. Following these steps will help reduce the stress and headache that comes with moving.

Packed moving boxes ready for transport

Six Months Before Moving: Planning and Budgeting

Set your moving date

Choose a tentative moving date to anchor your timeline. This helps you schedule tasks and book services early.

Create a moving budget

Estimate costs for movers, packing supplies, travel, deposits, and any new furniture or repairs. Include a buffer for unexpected expenses of about 10-15%.

Quickly boost your home's value

Take the time to do some quick projects to boost your home's value such as repainting the front door, fixing and cracks in the plaster, and repainting and brightly colored rooms a more neutral color.

Research neighborhoods and schools

If relocating to a new area, investigate local amenities, schools, and commute times to ensure the location fits your lifestyle.

Start gathering important documents

Collect medical records, school transcripts, financial papers, and any legal documents you might need during or after the move.

Tips:

• Use a spreadsheet or app to track your budget and expenses.

• Contact your employer if you need time off or relocation assistance.

  
  
  
  

Five Months Before Moving: Decluttering and Organizing

Sort through your belongings

Go room by room to decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Less stuff means less packing and lower moving costs. You can also start packing items that you can live without for a long time: books, holiday decorations, off-season clothing you won't need.

Host a garage sale or list items online

Selling unwanted items can help offset moving expenses and lighten your load.

Organize important items

Set aside valuables, keepsakes, and essential documents in a safe place.

Tips:

• Use the "one-year rule": if you haven’t used it in a year, consider letting it go.

• Label donation boxes clearly and schedule pick-up or drop-off dates.

  
  
  
  

Four Months Before Moving: Researching Moving Companies

Get multiple moving quotes

Contact at least three reputable moving companies for estimates. Ask about insurance, services included, and cancellation policies. Ask for a binding estimate or a not-to-exceed estimate. A non-binding estimate can increase up to 110% of the quoted price based on weight. Ask about surcharges or fees for stairs, elevators, or long carries. You can use MovEase to help get quotes from trusted and vetted moving companies.

Check reviews and references

Look for feedback on websites like Yelp or the Better Business Bureau to avoid scams or poor service.

Decide on DIY or professional movers

If you choose to move yourself, start researching truck rentals and enlist friends or family for help.

Tips:

• Book your movers early to secure your preferred date.

• Confirm what items movers will not transport (plants, pets, hazardous materials).

  
  
  
  

Three Months Before Moving: Packing Strategies

Gather packing supplies

Collect boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and packing paper. Consider specialty boxes for fragile or bulky items.

Label boxes clearly

Include the room destination and a brief description of contents to make unpacking easier. Label the boxes on multiple sides not just the top.

Create an inventory list

Create a master inventory of your boxes and a quick description of what is in them. This will make unpacking more efficient.

Tips:

• Pack one room at a time to stay organized.

• Use towels and linens to cushion fragile items and save on bubble wrap.

  
  

Two Months Before Moving: Address Changes and Utility Setups

Notify important contacts of your move

Inform banks, insurance providers, subscription services, and any other relevant parties about your new address.

Set up utilities at your new home

Arrange for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable services to be active by your move-in date.

Schedule disconnection of current utilities

Plan to stop services at your old home shortly after your move.

Update your address with the post office

Submit a change of address form to forward mail to your new location.

Tips:

• Keep a checklist of all contacts you need to update.

• Confirm utility activation dates to avoid service gaps.

  
  
  
  

One Month Before Moving: Final Preparations

Confirm moving details

Recheck dates and times with your moving company or truck rental. MovEase allows quick messaging to moving companies to assist in coordination.

Pack essentials box

Include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, chargers, and basic kitchen supplies.

Arrange childcare or pet care for moving day

Having help ensures a smoother, less stressful move.

Clean your current home

Start deep cleaning rooms as you empty them to save time later.

Tips:

• Take photos of your old home for records or deposit returns.

• Keep important phone numbers handy, including movers and utility companies.

  
  

Two Weeks Before Moving: Wrapping Up Loose Ends

Finish packing

Complete packing all remaining items except essentials.

Dispose of hazardous materials

Properly get rid of paint, chemicals, and other items movers won’t transport.

Confirm travel arrangements

If moving long-distance, book flights, hotels, or car rentals.

Prepare your new home

If possible, visit to clean, measure spaces, or make minor repairs.

Tips:

• Use up perishable food to avoid waste.

• Label boxes with fragile items as “Handle with care.”

  
  
  
  

Moving Week: Final Steps

Pack your essentials bag

Include medications, snacks, important documents, a spare set of bed sheets, and anything you’ll need immediately.

Defrost and clean appliances

Empty and clean your fridge and freezer at least 24 hours before moving to allow them time to warm up and defrost.

Do a final walkthrough

Check every room, closet, and cabinet to ensure nothing is left behind.

Keep cash and valuables with you

Don’t pack these in moving boxes.

Tips:

• Take photos of your packed boxes for reference.

• Stay hydrated and take breaks during the move.

  
  

Moving Day: Stay Organized and Calm

Supervise movers or helpers

Be available to answer questions and direct where items should go.

Check inventory list

Ensure all boxes and furniture are loaded.

Do a last check of the old home

Look for forgotten items and turn off lights, set locks, and close windows.

Tips:

• Keep your phone charged and accessible.

• Have snacks and water ready for everyone involved.

  
  

After the Move: Settling In

Unpack essentials first

Focus on the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms to make your new home livable quickly. Having a spare set of bed sheets will allow you to get your bedroom set up quickly without digging through boxes.

Set up utilities and services

Confirm everything is working properly.

Register your vehicle and update your driver’s license

Check local requirements for address changes.

Explore your new neighborhood

Find nearby grocery stores, healthcare providers, and other essentials.

Tips:

• Pace yourself; unpacking can take time.

• Meet your neighbors to build connections.