Buying a new home is one of life’s biggest milestones— and while securing the right mortgage is a huge part of the journey, the moving process itself can be just as overwhelming. Between packing, coordinating movers, and transferring utilities, it’s easy to feel like your to-do list never ends.

That’s why we’ve created a week-by-week moving checklist to help you stay organized from the moment you sign your mortgage paperwork to the day you’re settled into your new home.

And the best part? You can download the full printable checklist here so you can keep it handy every step of the way.

Why Planning Ahead Matters for New Homeowners

Whether you’ve just closed on your first home or upgraded to your forever home, the weeks before your move are critical. Proper planning not only saves you time and stress, but it can also help you avoid costly last-minute expenses—something every homeowner appreciates after signing their loan documents.

By breaking the move into manageable steps, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your new home.

Moving Timeline: Week-by-Week Guide

6 Weeks Before Your Move

Start with the big picture—book movers, donate unwanted items, collect packing materials, and notify your insurance providers, local institutions like schools, gyms, etc.

This is also the perfect time to measure large furniture for your new space so you can plan your layout in advance.

5 Weeks Before

Start packing non-essential items, label boxes by room and contents. Also, make sure to research schools, doctors and vets in the new area if needed.

4 Weeks Before

Begin using up pantry and freezer items and be sure to dispose of hazardous materials.

This is also the perfect time to measure large furniture for your new space so you can plan your layout in advance.

3 Weeks Before

Schedule mail forwarding through USPS, transfer utilities, update mailing address with banks and other service providers. In addition, refill prescriptions and transfer them over to a local pharmacy new your new home.

2 Weeks Before

Continue packing and organizing remaining rooms, schedule painters and handymen for jobs needed at your new home. Don’t forget to request time off of work, if needed!

1 Week Before

Deep clean your current home so you can leave it in great condition for the next owners. Finish the last-minute errands and pack kitchenware and essentials.

1 Day before

Pack suitcases and personal “essentials box” with toiletries, bedding, chargers, and important documents you’ll need right away. Grab some cash to tip any movers, too!

Ready to Move with Less Stress?

We’ve done the hard part for you—our printable moving checklist breaks the process down into easy steps, helping you stay on track and avoid last-minute chaos.

Click here to download your free checklist and make your next move the smoothest one yet.