The Ultimate Relocation Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Stress-Free Move

Relocating to a new home—whether across town or across the country—can feel overwhelming. But with a detailed moving checklist, you can stay organized, reduce stress, and ensure a smooth transition. This guide breaks down everything you need to do before, during, and after your move, so you don’t miss a step.

 

⬜ Decide on Your Moving Date – Check work schedules, school start dates, and lease agreements.
⬜ Set a Moving Budget – Factor in costs for movers, transportation, packing materials, deposits, and temporary lodging if needed.
⬜ Research Moving Companies – Get at least three quotes from reputable movers.
⬜ Consider a DIY Move – If hiring a moving company isn’t an option, research truck rental services like U-Haul or Penske.
⬜ Hire a Realtor (If Buying or Selling a Home) – A local real estate agent can help you sell your current home and find the best property in your new city.
⬜ Notify Your Landlord (If Renting) – Give written notice per your lease agreement.
⬜ Declutter & Donate – Get rid of unwanted clothes, furniture, and items you won’t need in your new home.

 

⬜ Start Packing Non-Essentials – Pack items you don’t use daily, like holiday decorations and off-season clothes.
⬜ Label Everything – Use color-coded labels or write room names on each box for easy unpacking.
⬜ Research Schools & Medical Providers – If moving to a new school district, transfer school records and find new doctors.
⬜ Transfer or Cancel Memberships – Gym, clubs, and community memberships may need to be updated or canceled.
⬜ Check Insurance Coverage – Update or transfer home, renters, and car insurance to your new location.

 

⬜ Hire Packers & Movers – Confirm moving company and schedule packing services if needed.
⬜ Notify Important Contacts – Update your address with:

• • USPS (file a change of address online)
  • Banks & Credit Cards
  • Employer & Payroll Services
  • Subscription Services (Amazon, Netflix, etc.)
  • Insurance & Utility Companies

⬜ Transfer Utilities – Set up electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash service at your new home.
⬜ Order Packing Supplies – Buy boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty items like mattress covers.
⬜ Plan Travel & Lodging – Book hotels or flights if moving long-distance.

 

⬜ Confirm Moving Day Details – Double-check times with movers and review contracts.
⬜ Pack a “First Night” Box – Essentials like toiletries, medication, a change of clothes, phone chargers, snacks, and important documents.
⬜ Disassemble Furniture – Take apart large furniture for easier transport.
⬜ Arrange Child & Pet Care – Moving day can be hectic, so schedule a sitter if needed.
⬜ Refill Prescriptions – Ensure you have enough medication before the move.

⬜ Backup Important Files – Save computer files and documents on a hard drive or cloud storage.

 

⬜ Wake Up Early & Do a Final Walkthrough – Check every room, closet, and cabinet.
⬜ Give Instructions to Movers – Let them know which boxes are fragile or need priority placement.
⬜ Keep Important Items With You – Pack jewelry, passports, legal documents, and sentimental items separately.
⬜ Take Photos of Your Old Home – If renting, document the condition to avoid disputes over your security deposit.
⬜ Clean Your Old Home – Sweep floors, wipe counters, and empty trash before leaving.
⬜ Turn Off Utilities – Shut off lights, water, and gas if necessary.

 

⬜ Unpack Essentials First – Focus on kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom essentials.
⬜ Inspect for Damage – Check furniture and boxes for damage from the move.
⬜ Set Up Utilities & Internet – If not done earlier, call providers to activate services.
⬜ Change Locks & Security Codes – For safety, replace door locks, garage codes, and alarm systems.
⬜ Register Your Car & Update License – Visit the DMV to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
⬜ Meet Your Neighbors – Introduce yourself to build connections in your new community.

 

⬜ Pack by Room – Keep similar items together for easier unpacking.
⬜ Use Clear Bins for Essentials – Easy to see and access things you need immediately.
⬜ Take Photos of Electronic Setups – Helps with reassembly.
⬜ Keep a Moving Binder – Track receipts, contracts, and contact info for movers and realtors.
⬜ Leave a Moving Review – Share your experience with the moving company to help others.

 

Relocating can be overwhelming, but with the right plan and the right team, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re moving to Chesterfield, Richmond, or anywhere in Central Virginia, let us help you find the perfect home and guide you through the process.

📞 Call or Text: (804) 792-3737
🌐 Visit: garnerrealtyllc.com

Let’s make your move smooth, stress-free, and successful!