The essential moving checklist

Moving can be one of life's most stressful events, but it doesn't have to be. Use this timeline and checklist to get organized.

8 weekends out

• Hire a moving company, reserve a formal storage unit, or book a truck if you plan on moving yourself.
• Begin de-cluttering, selling, donating, or trashing items you don't plan on moving.
• Review your move with your home or renters insurance company to see if you have any coverage gaps. Remember, breakage is typically not covered.
• Create a moving folder for all your moving, home or apartment insurance related documents.

6 weekends out

• Create a packing list to easily reference each item you will need to pack.
• Calculate moving box and supply needs.
• Buy moving supplies including boxes, tape, and packing materials or grab free boxes at your local liquor store or supermarket.

4 weekends out

• Pack all your non-essentials: off-season clothing, sports equipment, things stored in your garage and basement.
• Sell, donate, or store items that you don't have a space for in your new home.
• Set up mail forwarding and update your address with your bank, home insurance company, doctor's offices, etc.

2 weekends out

• Pack all non-essential items in your kitchen, bedrooms, and living spaces.
• Inspect your home and make any needed repairs.

1 weekend out

• Finish packing all your rooms, clean up, and clean out your current home.
• Transfer utilities to your new address.
• Consider getting ahead of any laundry you might need to do.

The night before

• Pack a box of essentials you'll need at your new place on moving day: toilet paper, soap, paper towels, and garbage bags. Don't forget your phone charger and moving folder.
• Do a final cleaning and room run-through to make sure you haven't forgotten anything.
• Get a good night of sleep - you have a big day tomorrow!