The difference between a chaotic move and a successful one comes down to planning and organization. Moving can be stressful, but with these tips and a timeline to follow, you'll have a smooth, organized move.

Moving Checklist:

6 Weeks Prior

  • Research moving options and decide if you’re going to move on your own or use professional moving services.
  • If you've decided to use professional services, book as soon as possible. The last three days of the month are the busiest for movers, so try scheduling six weeks in advance.
  • Make sure you read your moving agreement, some movers will only move boxes. You'll want to make sure you have purchased enough boxes or approved materials before packing your home.
  • Do a home walkthrough to decide what you’re taking with you, donating or selling.
  • If selling, be sure to visit ADT.com/resources/online-scams for safety tips on online selling. Don't fall for online scams!

1 Month Prior

  • Submit a change of address online at USPS.gov and have mail forwarded.
  • Schedule service changes or stop dates on utilities and monthly deliveries.
  • Go online or call your utility providers to start/stop or transfer services for your new home and transfer any existing subscriptions to the new address.
  • Update your insurance information.
  • You’ll want to make sure that before you move, you are protected at your new place.
  • Contact ADT to set up or transfer service to your new location.
  • Donate any unwanted clothing or furniture.

2 Weeks Prior

  • Begin packing and start with your out of season items that you aren’t using so you still have access to your daily use items.
  • Label all boxes clearly. There are several systems that can help you stay organized, like assigning a tape color label to every room, such as green for living room or grey for bathroom. Or, try numbering every box and having a corresponding spreadsheet that lists out each box's contents.

1 Week Prior

  • Verify moving information with movers if you are using a professional service.
  • Schedule an off-site babysitter or care arrangements for children and pets.

2 Days Prior

  • Finish packing. Only leave out items you can’t live without.
  • Use a clear container for these items so you can quickly locate where they are when moving into your new home as well.
  • Make sure you keep all valuables and important documents with you.

Moving Day

  • Pack final items in a clear container.
  • Greet your movers and walk them through the house to make sure there are no questions about any instructions or items that require special handling.
  • Do a final sweep of your home and make sure all items are removed.
  • Relax! You did it, and while there are lots of boxes to unpack, you're organized and know exactly where things are in your new home. Order a pizza, get some fresh air or have some friends over to celebrate.
Find a printable version of this checklist here.

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