Moving Checklist
Preparing to Move? Our Moving Checklist Makes It Easier.
Moving can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to.
Whether you’re moving across town, across Florida, or across state lines, having a plan can make all the difference.
This printable moving checklist breaks the process into manageable steps beginning 8 weeks before your move date through your first week in your new home. From choosing a moving company to updating your address and unpacking efficiently, use this guide to stay organized and reduce last-minute surprises.
Need help? Sorensen offers full-service moving solutions including packing, storage, transportation and move coordination to make your transition easier.
Prefer something you can check off by hand?
Download and print our moving checklist to stay organized before, during and after moving day.
Get your COMPLETE PDF Printable Moving Checklist!
8 Weeks Before Moving | Plan & Book
Start early to reduce stress and secure your preferred move dates.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Not all moving companies provide the same services. Understand exactly what’s included before booking and understand the difference between real mover and moving brokers
6-7 Weeks Before Moving | Organize Life Details
Now is the time to prepare your household and protect important information.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Dogs love routine, so when everything shifts at once, they can feel pretty unsettled. With thoughtful preparation, you can help your dog feel comfortable in your new space. Check out Helping your Dog Adjust to a New Home
4-5 Weeks Before Moving | Declutter & Reduce
Packing becomes easier when you move fewer things.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Decluttering before you pack can save more than time—it can simplify your entire move. Start with one room at a time and focus on what you truly use, love or need so you spend less time packing, moving and unpacking later. Learn more in our guide: Decluttering Before Relocating: A Smart Moving Strategy
3 Weeks Before Moving | Update Accounts & Addresses
Avoid headaches later by updating information now.
Your Checklist:
2 Weeks Before Moving | Prepare Your Home
Start transitioning from planning into execution.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Two weeks out is the perfect time to start move-out cleaning in stages instead of saving it all for the end. Focus on rooms you use less often first so your home stays show-ready and move day feels less overwhelming. Read our guide: Move-Out Cleaning Tips for a Smooth Move in Florida
1 Week Before Moving | Final Preparation
Focus on logistics and essentials.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Create a clearly marked “Do Not Load” area (a closet, bathroom or taped-off corner) for anything that should travel with you—not on the moving truck. Think medications, passports, jewelry, important documents, chargers, daily essentials, pet supplies, travel bags and your first-night essentials box.
The Day Before Moving Day.
Moving Day
You’ve made it—today is all about coordination.
Your Checklist:
Pro Tip: Create a clearly marked “Do Not Load” area (a closet, bathroom or taped-off corner) for anything that should travel with you—not on the moving truck. Think medications, passports, jewelry, important documents, chargers, daily essentials, pet supplies, travel bags and your first-night essentials box.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start planning a move?
Most moves benefit from planning 6–8 weeks in advance.
What should stay with me during the move?
Keep medications, documents, valuables, chargers and daily essentials with you.
Is hiring a full-service mover worth it?
Full-service moving can reduce stress by handling packing, transportation and coordination.
How do I clean my house before moving?
The best way to clean your house before moving is to work one room at a time, beginning with areas you no longer use. Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, baseboards, cabinets, and closets. A printable room-by-room checklist can help you stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked before handing over the keys.
Should I Empty My Dresser Drawers Before Moving?
The short answer is: not always.
For many moves, lightweight clothing such as shirts, sweaters, pajamas, socks, towels, and linens can often remain inside dresser drawers. Leaving these lightweight items in place can save time when packing and make unpacking much easier at your new home.
However, before moving day, you should always remove anything that could make the furniture heavier, damage the dresser, or put your belongings at risk.
We recommend removing:
- Heavy books or large stacks of paper
- Electronics and chargers
- Jewelry and other valuables
- Cash and important documents
- Medications
- Liquids, toiletries, or anything that could leak
- Breakable items
- Personal or private items you’d rather keep with you during your move
While lightweight clothing can often remain in your dresser drawers, it’s always a good idea to remove personal or private items, valuables, and important documents before moving day. That helps protect your privacy and ensures your most important belongings stay with you throughout the move.
Keep in mind that every move is different. The age and construction of the furniture, the distance you’re moving, and the overall weight of the dresser all influence whether drawers should remain full or be emptied. Your move coordinator can recommend the safest option for your specific furniture.
