Getting ready to move always takes more time than you think it will. It can be a stressful event for even the most organized, well-prepared person. With a little help from our moving preparation timeline, with tips from two months out to the day of the big move, you can be sure that the transition from your old place to your new home will go as smoothly as possible.

8 Weeks Out

Start an organized file of all necessary paperwork related to the move. Examples of these papers would be contracts, leases, contact details, and local information if you’re moving to a new area.

7 Weeks Out

If you’re moving to a new town, get referrals for doctors and dentists in your coverage network. Request all medical and school records to be transferred to new doctors and schools.

6 Weeks Out

Start to go through your belongings and gather items for yard sales and/or donations. We recommend beginning with clothing and accessories, as this is where you’re most likely to end up with a lot of extras that you don’t wear anymore. Move on to the kitchen next, and get rid of any dishes or small appliances you haven’t used in a while. A good rule of thumb: If it’s something that hasn’t been worn or used in the last six months (with the exception of seasonal clothing and gear), get rid of it.

5 Weeks Out

Stop all unnecessary shopping. Don’t buy food or other supplies in bulk. They’ll end up in the trash or will fill yet another box that has to be packed and moved. You’ll probably be eating out more often or just making a lot of sandwiches during the packing and moving process.

4 Weeks Out

Gather all moving supplies (boxes, tape, lists, markers). Schedule movers or truck rental. Begin packing nonessential items. Start with the least often used items like seasonal decor in the garage or attic and entertaining items in the kitchen and dining room.

3 Weeks Out

Call utility companies and schedule all utilities to be turned off a day or two after your move out day. Plan ahead and have utilities and cable/internet scheduled to be turned on at your new place on moving day. If you’re like us, you’re going to want your wi-fi up and running as soon as possible!

2 Weeks Out

Begin the process of changing your address with financial institutions, mail deliveries and subscriptions, and online accounts like Amazon. Plan meals and snacks around everything that’s left in the fridge and freezer. You might be eating an odd smorgasbord of different foods during this time leading up to the big move. Think of it as a culinary adventure.

1 Week Out

Time to get a move-on! Start the heavy duty packing, making sure to stay organized along the way. Label boxes according to the rooms they belong in. Mark the boxes that should be unpacked first, and pack items together that will be needed during the move or as soon as you arrive. Examples of these are bed sheets and blankets, toiletries, paper towels, medical items, alarm clocks, etc.

Moving Day

Pack your suitcase with your moving necessities and get ready to go! Do a final walkthrough of all areas of your old home (including attics, garages, and sheds) to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Plan to live out of your suitcase for the first few days while you get unpacked and organized in your new place. And don’t forget to take some time to celebrate at the end of the day. You did it!