Your Moving Checklist

☐ Create a moving folder for estimates, receipts, and important documents.

☐ Decide whether you'll hire professional movers or move yourself.

☐ Request estimates from at least three licensed moving companies.

☐ Establish a moving budget.

☐ Begin sorting through closets, storage, and the garage.

☐ Donate, recycle, or dispose of items you no longer need.

☐ Take photos of valuable belongings for insurance purposes.

☐ Order moving supplies.

☐ Collect boxes, tape, labels, and packing materials.

☐ Begin packing seasonal items.

☐ Schedule time off work if needed.

☐ Arrange child care or pet care for moving day.

☐ Confirm your closing date and possession schedule.

Notify:

☐ USPS

☐ Employer

☐ Banks

☐ Credit cards

☐ Insurance companies

☐ Investment accounts

☐ Retirement accounts

☐ Medical providers

☐ Dentist

☐ Pharmacy

☐ Schools

☐ Subscription services

☐ Online retailers

Arrange service for:

☐ Electric

☐ Natural Gas

☐ Water

☐ Sewer

☐ Trash

☐ Recycling

☐ Internet

☐ Cable or Streaming

☐ Security System

☐ Lawn Service

☐ Confirm moving company.

☐ Confirm utility transfer dates.

☐ Continue packing.

☐ Label every box by room.

☐ Pack valuables separately.

☐ Refill prescriptions.

☐ Arrange childcare if needed.

☐ Dispose of hazardous materials.

☐ Return borrowed items.

☐ Finish packing.

☐ Pack an overnight bag.

Include:

• Medications 
• Chargers 
• Toiletries 
• Important documents 
• Change of clothes 
• Snacks 
• Water 

☐ Confirm settlement appointment.

☐ Confirm mover arrival time.

☐ Withdraw cash if needed for tips or unexpected expenses.

☐ Walk through every room.

☐ Check closets.

☐ Check cabinets.

☐ Check attic.

☐ Check garage.

☐ Check exterior storage.

☐ Turn off lights.

☐ Lock windows.

☐ Leave keys, remotes, garage openers, and manuals if required

☐ Inspect the property.

☐ Locate:

• Water shutoff 
• Electrical panel 
• HVAC filter 
• Smoke detectors 
• Carbon monoxide detectors 

☐ Test locks.

☐ Test appliances.

☐ Confirm utilities are working.

☐ Document any concerns.

☐ Update driver's license.

☐ Update vehicle registration.

☐ Register to vote if needed.

☐ Meet your neighbors.

☐ Locate:

• Grocery stores 
• Pharmacy 
• Hospital 
• Urgent care 
• Veterinarian 
• Parks 

☐ Replace HVAC filter if appropriate.

☐ Test smoke detector batteries.

If you're moving within or to North Carolina:

☐ Update your address with the USPS.

☐ Update your North Carolina driver's license within the timeframe required by state law if you've become a resident.

☐ Register your vehicle with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles if required.

☐ Confirm trash and recycling schedules with your local municipality or service provider.

☐ Review HOA rules if applicable.

☐ Locate nearby parks, greenways, and community amenities.

When should I hire movers?

• Booking four to eight weeks before your move is generally recommended, especially during the spring and summer moving season.

Should I transfer utilities before closing?

• Schedule utility transfers to align with your closing and move-in dates so essential services are available when you take possession.

What should I keep with me on moving day?

• Carry medications, identification, important documents, valuables, chargers, keys, and anything you'll need during your first night rather than packing them in the moving truck.