Get Your Move On: The Ultimate 12 Week Moving Checklist

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it comes with a considerable to-do list. As you’re embarking on a long-distance journey, thorough planning is the key to a smooth and stress-free move. In this moving guide, we’ll take you through the ultimate 12 week moving checklist. We’ll share expert moving tips and insights to help you stay organized, manage your time efficiently, and ensure nothing is overlooked.

At Colonial Van Lines, we understand that moving can be a complex process, and our goal is to make it easier for you. Let’s dive into this moving checklist, optimized for a seamless transition.

12-8 Weeks Before Your Move: The Early Preparations

Create a Moving Binder
The first step to a successful move is organization. Create a moving binder or digital folder to keep track of important documents, receipts, and your checklist. This moving binder will be your command center throughout the process. Review your options for taxable moving expenses.

Determine Your Budget
Establish a clear budget for your move. Consider all expenses, including moving services, packing materials, and any unforeseen costs. Having a well-defined budget will help you make informed decisions and prevent financial surprises.

Hire a Moving Company
If you’re using a professional moving company, start your search early. Gather quotes, check reviews, and book your movers well in advance. Remember that reputable movers can get booked quickly, especially during peak moving seasons. Get a quote from Colonial Van Lines today!

Declutter and Donate
Begin decluttering your home. Sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need. Lightening your load can lead to savings on moving costs, as you’ll pay less for transporting fewer items. Plus, you’ll start fresh in your new home with less clutter.

Notify Important Parties
Let family, friends, and employers know about your upcoming move. Update your contact information and address as necessary. This is also the time to discuss your move with your employer, as you may need time off or a flexible schedule during the moving process.

Inventory Your Belongings
Start an inventory of your belongings. This will help you keep track of items and determine what needs special care during packing. An inventory list can also be handy for insurance purposes in case of loss or damage during the move.

6-7 Weeks Before Your Move: Mid-Range Preparation

Gather Packing Supplies
Collect packing materials, including boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Ensure you have enough supplies to avoid last-minute shopping. You can often find free or discounted moving boxes at local stores or through online listings.

Create an Inventory
Use the inventory you started earlier to assess your belongings. Decide which items you will move and which ones you will sell, donate, or discard. This is an essential step to minimize your load and reduce moving expenses.

Contact Service Providers
Notify utility companies, including gas, electric, cable, and internet, about your move. Schedule service disconnections and transfers to your new address. Don’t forget to cancel or transfer subscriptions for services like newspapers or magazines.

Research Your New Area
Learn about your new neighborhood, schools, healthcare facilities, and local services. This research will help you settle in more comfortably and plan for any changes in your daily routines. Explore your new area online, read reviews, and reach out to local residents for insights. See an area’s walkability score to find good neighborhoods. 

Begin Packing Non-Essentials
Start packing items you use infrequently. Begin with the garage, attic, or guest room. Label your boxes for easy identification, indicating both their contents and the room they belong in. This will save you time and reduce stress during the unpacking process.

4-5 Weeks Before Your Move: Countdown to Moving Day

Change Your Address
Update your address with the postal service, banks, insurance companies, and any subscriptions. Redirect your mail to your new address. Failing to update your address can lead to mail delivery issues and important documents going to the wrong place.

Notify Schools and Doctors
Inform your child’s school about the upcoming move. Transfer school records and obtain copies of medical records from your doctors. This is particularly crucial if you have school-aged children or ongoing medical treatments.

Packing Strategy
Plan your packing strategy. Pack room by room and label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in. This will streamline the unpacking process and make it easier to find what you need in your new home. If you are looking to avoid the chances of costly moving damage, Colonial Van Lines has a great guide!

Specialty Items
If you have specialty items like pianos, antiques, or delicate artwork, arrange for professional packing or transport services. These items require special care and expertise to ensure they arrive at your new home undamaged. 

Valuables
Prepare a bag of essential documents, valuables, and sentimental items to transport with you personally. This should include items like passports, birth certificates, jewelry, and any other valuable or irreplaceable possessions. Keep this bag with you during the move for added security.

2-3 Weeks Before Your Move: Final Preparations

Confirm Moving Details
Reconfirm moving dates, times, and logistics with your chosen moving company. Ensure you have the correct contact information for the movers and discuss any special requirements or concerns you may have.

Finish Packing
Complete the packing process for all non-essential items. Disassemble furniture as needed and pack it securely to prevent damage during transit. Remember to use packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, and furniture blankets to protect your belongings.

Notify Friends and Neighbors
Say your goodbyes and let friends and neighbors know your moving date. Share contact information to stay in touch and leave a forwarding address in case they need to reach you after your move.

Utility Services
Coordinate the disconnection of services at your old home and the connection of services at your new home. This includes gas, electricity, water, cable, internet, and trash pickup services. Ensure a seamless transition of utilities to avoid any interruptions.

1 Week Before Your Move: Final Countdown

Essentials Box
Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need for the first few days in your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and any necessary medications. Label this box clearly and keep it with you during the move for easy access. If you are looking for a variety of box sizes, Colonial Van Lines has a list here.

Confirm Travel Arrangements
If you’re traveling a long distance to your new home, confirm travel arrangements for you and your family. Ensure you have lodging reservations and transportation plans in place. Make any necessary bookings well in advance.

Disassemble Furniture
Disassemble any remaining furniture pieces that need to be taken apart for the move. Keep track of screws, bolts, and other hardware by placing them in labeled bags and attaching them to the furniture they belong to. This will make reassembly much easier.

Check the Details
Review your moving checklist to ensure all tasks are completed. Double-check your moving company’s details and contact information. Verify that all boxes and items are packed and labeled correctly, and confirm that all utilities at your old home are scheduled for disconnection.

Moving Day

Final Walkthrough
Do a final walkthrough of your home to make sure nothing is left behind. Check closets, basements, and the attic to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. Inspect the condition of each room to make sure it’s clean and empty.

Supervise the Move
Be present during the move to answer any questions and ensure your items are handled with care. Verify that each box and piece of furniture is loaded onto the moving truck and that no items are left behind.

Last Step: Reach Out to Colonial Van Lines for a Smooth Move

As you embark on your moving journey, this comprehensive checklist will be your guide to a successful and organized transition. At Colonial Van Lines, we’re committed to making your move as stress-free and efficient as possible. We understand that moving can be a challenging and complex process, and we’re here to provide the support and expertise you need.

Don’t let the complexities of moving overwhelm you. Reach out to Colonial Van Lines, and let our experienced team help you navigate every step of the way. For your next long-distance move, we’re here to ensure your transition is seamless and hassle-free.

Moving is a significant life event, and we want to make it as memorable for all the right reasons. Contact Colonial Van Lines today and discover how we can turn your next move into your best move. With our expertise and your careful planning using this comprehensive moving checklist, you’re on your way to a successful and stress-free relocation. Safe travels!