Jeni VanOrnum | Real Estate Insights & Education

You’ve made it to closing—congratulations! Now comes moving day. Here’s your comprehensive checklist for a smooth transition.

Two Weeks Before Moving

• Confirm moving date with movers or rental truck
• Order packing supplies
• Notify utilities (electric, gas, water, internet, cable)
• Update address with USPS, banks, credit cards, insurance, employer, IRS
• Transfer or cancel gym memberships, subscriptions
• Arrange pet/child care for moving day
• Start packing non-essentials

One Week Before

• Confirm moving truck reservation
• Pack most belongings (clearly label boxes by room)
• Defrost freezer
• Dispose of hazardous materials (paint, chemicals) properly
• Collect valuables and important documents (keep with you)
• Take photos of new home condition (before moving in)
• Clean out safety deposit box

Three Days Before

• Pick up rental truck or confirm movers
• Pack overnight bags for each family member
• Empty and clean refrigerator
• Finish all packing
• Confirm utilities transfer dates

Day Before Moving

• Do final walkthrough of old home
• Load heavy/awkward items if moving yourself
• Charge phones and devices
• Prepare snacks and drinks for moving day
• Set aside items you’ll need immediately (toilet paper, soap, towels, phone chargers, medications)

Moving Day Essentials Box

Pack separately and load last:

• Toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags
• Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, tape, scissors)
• Light bulbs
• Phone chargers
• Medications
• First aid kit
• Cash and important documents
• Pet food and supplies
• Change of clothes
• Snacks and water
• Cleaning supplies

Moving Day Tasks

• Walk through old home one final time
• Check all closets, cabinets, attic, basement, garage
• Take final meter readings
• Leave keys, garage door openers, manuals for new owners
• Clean if required by contract
• Direct movers at new home
• Check inventory and condition of belongings
• Take photos of any mover-caused damage immediately

First Night in Your New Home

• Change locks (this is critical!)
• Locate and test main water shutoff
• Locate electrical panel
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Program thermostat
• Make beds
• Set up bathroom essentials
• Check all appliances
• Order or prepare food (your kitchen is packed!)

First Week Tasks

• Register to vote
• Update vehicle registration
• Register pets with local authorities
• Find new doctors, dentists, vets
• Locate nearest hospital, police, fire station
• Introduce yourself to neighbors
• Set up home security system
• Change HVAC filters

First Month Tasks

• Deep clean entire home
• Touch up paint as needed
• Begin maintenance schedule
• Update homeowners insurance with home inventory
• Schedule HVAC service
• Organize garage and storage areas
• Install desired upgrades (smart thermostat, doorbell camera)

Utility Checklist

Set up or transfer:

• Electric
• Gas
• Water/Sewer
• Trash/Recycling
• Internet
• Cable/Streaming
• Security system
• Landscape service

Budget for Moving

Typical costs:

• Professional movers: $1,000-$5,000+
• Truck rental: $30-$500
• Packing supplies: $100-$300
• Utility deposits: $100-$500
• Immediate repairs/updates: $500-$2,000
• Cleaning supplies: $50-$100

Pro Tips

• Take photos of electronics before disconnecting
• Pack a “open first” box for each room
• Keep hardware from disassembled furniture in labeled bags
• Use towels and linens as padding for fragile items
• Color-code boxes by room
• Number boxes and keep master list

Don’t Forget to Enjoy!

Moving is stressful, but you just achieved homeownership! Take time to celebrate this incredible milestone.

I’m Here to Help

I provide all my clients with a comprehensive moving checklist and local service provider recommendations. Let’s make your move as smooth as possible!