Long Distance Moving Checklist — 50 Things to Do Before Moving Day

Moving long distance is one of the most stressful life events you'll experience — but it doesn't have to be. With the right checklist and enough lead time, you can make your long-distance move smooth and stress-free.

This checklist covers everything from 8 weeks out to moving day itself.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Create a moving binder or folder to track everything
• Set your moving budget — include mover costs, packing supplies, travel, and deposits
• Research and get quotes from at least 3 FMCSA-licensed moving companies
• Book your moving company — long distance slots fill up fast, especially summer
• Give notice to your landlord if renting
• Start decluttering every room — sell, donate, or trash what you don't need
• Research your new city — neighborhoods, schools, doctors, grocery stores

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Begin collecting packing boxes and supplies
• Pack items you rarely use first — seasonal decorations, extra linens, books
• Start the address change process:
  — USPS mail forwarding (usps.com)
  — Bank and credit cards
  — Employer payroll
  — Insurance (health, auto, home)
  — Subscriptions and memberships
• Transfer or request school records if moving with children
• Research how to transfer your vehicle registration and driver's license

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Continue packing non-essentials room by room
• Label every box with contents AND destination room
• Set up utilities at your new home — electric, gas, water, internet
• Cancel or transfer local services — gym, newspaper, lawn care
• Arrange travel for moving day — flights, hotel, pet transport
• Confirm move details with your moving company
• Take photos of all electronics setups before disconnecting

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Pack all but essential items
• Use up perishable food — don't move frozen food long distance
• Dispose of hazardous materials (paint, propane, cleaning chemicals) — movers can't transport these
• Confirm parking arrangements for the moving truck at both locations
• Prepare an "essentials box" — items you'll need immediately on arrival
• Back up all computers and important documents
• Arrange childcare and pet care for moving day

Moving Day Checklist

• Be present and available throughout the loading process
• Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, and cabinet
• Check attic, garage, and storage areas
• Take photos of your current home's condition
• Get a copy of the bill of lading and inventory list
• Keep important documents, valuables, and medications with you — never in the moving truck
• Leave keys, garage openers, and access cards for the new owners/tenants

Your Essentials Box — What to Pack

This box travels with you (not on the truck) and has everything you need for the first 48 hours:

• Phone chargers and laptop
• Medications and first aid kit
• Toiletries and a change of clothes
• Important documents (IDs, passports, moving paperwork)
• Snacks, water, paper plates and cups
• Toilet paper (always first priority)
• Coffee maker or instant coffee
• Kids' favorite toys or comfort items
• Pet food and supplies