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!

  • Schedule an appointment with Sorensen Moving & Storage to visit your home, develop a personalized move plan, and provide a written estimate.

Moving & Storage Services Moving Checklist

8 Weeks Before Moving | Plan & Book

Start early to reduce stress and secure your preferred move dates.

Your Checklist:

  • Create a moving budget and timeline

  • Research neighborhoods and schools

  • Decide which moving services you need

  • Compare moving companies and estimates

  • Schedule an in-home or virtual survey

  • Book your mover

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

One Month Before Move

6-7 Weeks Before Moving | Organize Life Details

Now is the time to prepare your household and protect important information.

Your Checklist:

  • Notify schools and transfer records

  • Schedule vet visits and gather pet records

  • Confirm work schedules and time off

  • Gather IDs, passports and financial documents

  • Back up digital files and passwords

  • Transfer medical and prescription records

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:

  • Sort items into Keep / Donate / Sell / Discard

  • Schedule donation pickups

  • Sell unwanted furniture and household items

  • Dispose of expired products

  • Shred sensitive paperwork

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:

  • Deep clean and make minor repairs

  • Begin disassembling furniture

  • Label hardware and parts

  • Prepare a travel bag with essentials

  • Confirm transportation and hotel plans

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:

  • Schedule utility connections

  • Prepare appliances for moving

  • Create a “Do Not Load” area

  • Separate valuables and medications

  • Confirm moving day timing

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.

  • Unplug your electrical appliances 24 hours prior to your move so they will be at room temperature when our movers arrive.

  • Label the items or boxes you would like delivered first when our truck arrives at your new home.

Moving Day

You’ve made it—today is all about coordination.

Your Checklist:

  • Walk through special instructions with mover

  • Review paperwork and inventory

  • Keep snacks, water and chargers accessible

  • Complete final walkthrough

  • Lock up and leave keys

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.

Take the Next Steps to Having a Seamless Move Today!