The Ultimate Step-by-Step Moving Checklist

Moving can be an overwhelming experience. With so many tasks to juggle and decisions to make, it’s easy to feel stressed or unsure where to start. I understand how challenging it can be, which is why I’ve put together this step-by-step checklist. It’s designed to guide you through the process and help you stay organized, so you can approach your move with confidence and ease. Let’s walk through everything you need to do, one step at a time, to ensure a smooth and successful move.

8 Weeks Before the Move

1. Create a Moving Folder
   Start by organizing all your moving-related documents in a folder. This should include contracts, estimates, and important contacts.
2. Set Your Moving Budget
   Outline all potential expenses, including moving supplies, moving company fees, and any extra services like packing or storage.
3. Hire a Moving Company or Rent a Truck
   If you’re hiring movers, start gathering quotes. If you’re doing it yourself, reserve a moving truck for your chosen date.
4. Declutter Your Home
   Now is the time to go through your items and decide what’s coming with you. Donate, sell, or discard anything you no longer need.

6 Weeks Before the Move

5. Order Packing Supplies
   Purchase boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper.
6. Update your Address and Notify the following:
   1. Electricity and Gas Provider – Arrange for transfer or disconnection at your old address and connection at your new one.
   2. Water Supplier – Notify them about your move to update billing details.
   3. Internet and Phone Provider – Ensure your services are transferred or disconnected.
   4. New Zealand Post – Set up mail redirection to ensure you don’t miss any important correspondence.
   5. Inland Revenue (IRD) – Update your address with the tax department.
   6. Your Bank – Notify your bank to update your address for statements and correspondence.
   7. Council Rates Department – Notify your local council of your change of address to ensure accurate rates billing.

5. Start Packing Non-Essential Items
   Begin packing items you don’t use regularly, like off-season clothes, books, or décor. Label each box with its contents and room.

4 Weeks Before the Move

8. Change Your Address
   Notify the post office of your new address. Update your details with banks, insurance companies, and any subscriptions you have.
9. Confirm Moving Details with Your Moving Company
   Double-check all the details with your movers, including the date, time, and any special instructions. If you’re doing it yourself, confirm your truck rental.
10. Start Packing Room by Room
    Begin packing more essential items. Remember to go room by room to stay organized. Pack items from one room completely before starting another.

2 Weeks Before the Move

11. Pack a Moving Essentials Bag
    Pack a bag with essential items like clothes, toiletries, medications, and important documents. You’ll want to have this with you on moving day, so it doesn’t get lost in the moving chaos.
12. Finish Packing Non-Essential Rooms
    By now, you should be finishing up packing the less-used areas of your home. Make sure fragile items are carefully wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper.
13. Label Fragile Items
    Clearly label boxes with fragile items so movers know to handle them with extra care. I always recommend labeling not just the room but the contents as well.

2 Days Before the Move

14. Pack the Kitchen
    The kitchen can be one of the most time-consuming rooms to pack. Be sure to use plenty of padding for dishes and glassware. For more info on kitchen packing, check out our handy Youtube tutorial or read about how to pack fragile items.
15. Disassemble Large Furniture
    Take apart large items like bed frames, tables, or bookshelves. Keep all screws and small parts in labeled plastic bags.
16. Defrost the Freezer
    If you’re taking your fridge, make sure to defrost and clean it at least 24 hours before moving day.

1 Day Before the Move

17. Confirm Final Details with Movers or Truck Rental
    Reconfirm the moving date and time with your movers or truck rental company.
18. Finish Packing
    By now, all non-essential items should be packed. Leave only what you’ll need for the next day or two.

Moving Day

19. Do a Final Walkthrough
    Check all rooms, closets, and cabinets to make sure nothing is left behind.
20. Stay Available
    Be present during the move to answer any questions the movers might have and to direct them on where items should go in the new place.

After the Move

21. Unpack the Essentials First
    Start with the most critical rooms—like your kitchen and bedroom—so you can settle in quickly.
22. Set Up Utilities
    Ensure that your utilities are functioning correctly in your new home.

By following this checklist, you’ll stay organized and reduce the stress of moving. With some planning and preparation, your move can be a smooth, hassle-free experience!

‍