Your Moving Checklist

Moving is one of life's most logistically demanding events. This checklist breaks the process into manageable phases, starting eight weeks before moving day. Print it, bookmark it, and check items off as you go.

8 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Research and get quotes from at least three moving companies (Peninsula movers book up quickly in spring and summer)
• If your employer offers relocation assistance, contact HR to understand what is covered
• Create a moving binder or digital folder for estimates, receipts, and important documents
• Begin decluttering room by room -- donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need
• If you have children, notify their current school and research enrollment at the new school
• Start using up frozen food and pantry items you do not want to move

6 Weeks Before

• Book your moving company and confirm the date, time, and scope of service
• Begin collecting packing supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, and labels
• Notify your landlord (if applicable) and review your lease termination requirements
• Schedule transfer or cancellation of utilities: PG&E, water, internet, cable
• Arrange for cleaning of your current home after move-out
• If moving pets, research any requirements (vet records, travel arrangements)

4 Weeks Before

• Begin packing non-essential rooms: guest bedrooms, storage areas, garage
• Submit a change-of-address form with USPS (can be done online)
• Update your address with banks, credit cards, insurance providers, and subscriptions
• Notify your employer and update payroll records
• Transfer prescriptions to a pharmacy near your new home
• Arrange for medical and dental records to be transferred
• Back up your computer and important digital files

2 Weeks Before

• Confirm moving day details with your moving company (arrival time, parking, access)
• Pack room by room, labeling every box with contents and destination room
• Set aside a "first night" box: toiletries, medications, phone chargers, change of clothes, bedding, basic kitchen items
• Drain fuel from lawn equipment and dispose of hazardous materials properly
• Arrange for child and pet care on moving day
• Confirm utility activation at your new home
• If applicable, schedule new home security system installation

1 Week Before

• Finish packing all remaining rooms
• Defrost and clean the refrigerator (if it is not staying with the home)
• Prepare an envelope with cash for tipping movers ($20-$50 per mover is standard)
• Confirm your new home's walkthrough and key handoff timing
• Pack a personal bag with valuables, important documents, and anything you do not want on the truck
• Take photos of your current home's condition (useful for security deposit returns or final walkthrough documentation)

Moving Day

• Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, cabinet, and the garage
• Check that all windows are closed and locked, thermostat is set, and lights are off
• Supervise the loading process -- confirm fragile items are handled appropriately
• Review and sign the moving company's inventory and bill of lading
• Leave keys, garage remotes, and access codes for the new owner per your agent's instructions
• Lock up and say goodbye

At Your New Home

• Verify that utilities are active: electricity, gas, water, internet
• Change the locks or rekey all exterior doors (your agent can recommend a locksmith)
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Locate the main water shut-off, electrical panel, and gas shut-off
• Supervise unloading and direct movers to the correct rooms
• Unpack your "first night" box and make the beds -- everything else can wait
• Introduce yourself to the neighbors

Moving is a marathon, not a sprint. Give yourself grace, delegate where you can, and remember that the goal is not perfection on day one -- it is being settled into your new home within the first week.