The Ultimate Moving Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Smooth Move

Moving into a new home is exciting — but it can also feel like juggling a hundred little details at once. From packing boxes to updating your address, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate moving checklist, designed to walk you through every stage of the process — from the first box you tape to the moment you put your feet up in your new living room.

Whether you’re relocating across Sacramento or making a move from out of town, this guide will help keep your move organized, efficient, and (almost) stress-free.

2–3 Months Before Moving Day

This is the planning phase. Think of it like laying the foundation for a stress-free move.

• Create a moving binder or digital folder. Keep all estimates, receipts, and contracts in one place. A shared Google Drive folder works wonders if multiple family members are involved.
• Research moving companies. Call at least three and compare pricing, availability, and reviews. Summer is Sacramento’s busy season, so the earlier you book, the better.
• Declutter your home. Go room by room and decide what’s worth bringing. Donate clothes, sell furniture online, and toss items that have been sitting in the garage for years. A lighter load = lower moving costs.
• Set a budget. Factor in movers, supplies, truck rental, deposits, and small extras like pizza for moving day. Having a clear number upfront helps prevent stress later.
• If renting, notify your landlord. Many leases require 30–60 days’ notice, so don’t forget to give your official move-out date in writing.

Starting early means fewer surprises later and sets the stage for a stress-free moving experience.

Settle into Sacramento County

4–6 Weeks Before:

Now it’s time to start chipping away at packing and logistics.

• Gather supplies. Buy (or collect) sturdy boxes in different sizes, plenty of packing tape, bubble wrap, and labels. Pro tip: liquor stores often give away strong boxes perfect for books.
• Start packing non-essentials. Seasonal décor, books, or clothes you won’t need before the move are a good place to start. This prevents last-minute panic.
• Label everything clearly. Write the room on the box and a short description (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans”). Color-coded labels or tape can make unpacking a breeze.
• Plan time off work. If you’ll need a day or two, now is the time to talk to your boss so your move isn’t competing with work deadlines.
• If you have kids, notify schools. Start paperwork for transferring records so they’re ready for the new district.

By tackling these tasks now, you’ll keep moving week from feeling like a mad rush.

Make the Move to Placer County

1 Month Before:

This is when details start coming together.

• Confirm movers or truck rental. Don’t just assume they have you on the calendar — call and double-check.
• Update your address. File a change of address with USPS and update banks, subscriptions, insurance, and Amazon deliveries.
• Set up utilities at the new home. Call Sacramento utilities (SMUD, PG&E, internet, water, garbage) to avoid move-in-day hiccups.
• Meal plan strategically. Start using up food from your freezer and pantry so you don’t have to haul it with you.
• Review your insurance. Make sure your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance starts on the day you move into your new home.

One month out is all about tying up loose ends so you can focus on packing in the final weeks.

2 Weeks Before:

With two weeks to go, it’s crunch time.

• Pack most of your belongings. Leave only what you’ll use in the next 14 days. The more you do now, the easier moving day will be.
• Return borrowed items. Drop off library books, borrowed tools, or anything that doesn’t belong to you.
• Arrange childcare or pet care. Moving day can be chaotic. If possible, line up a babysitter, daycare, or pet sitter.
• Reconfirm details. Call your moving company or truck rental to confirm dates, arrival times, and costs.
• Pack a “first night” box. Include sheets, towels, toilet paper, toiletries, snacks, chargers, and a change of clothes so you’re not digging through boxes at midnight.

These small but mighty tasks ensure that moving day runs like clockwork.

Start Fresh in El Dorado County

1 Week Before:

This is the week of tying up loose ends.

• Clean your home. Whether you’re renting (and hoping to get your deposit back) or selling, plan to leave the house tidy.
• Disassemble large furniture. Beds, desks, and shelving units take longer than you think; start early.
• Defrost the fridge and freezer. Empty them out and unplug at least 24–48 hours before moving. Place towels down to catch any water.
• Pack a personal suitcase. Treat it like a trip: clothes, daily medications, toiletries, and anything you need at your fingertips.
• Check in with your agent. Confirm key pickup details, closing dates, or any final walk-throughs.

This final prep week is all about making sure your home — and you — are truly ready to go.

Find Your Next Chapter in Yolo County

Moving Day!

The big day has arrived. Stay calm and follow the plan.

• Do a final walk-through. Check all closets, drawers, basements, and garages for forgotten items.
• Protect your home. Use pads or blankets to protect flooring and doorways from scuffs.
• Be available. If using movers, answer questions and direct them on where to place items in your new home.
• Keep essentials with you. Don’t pack away important documents, IDs, medication, or keys; keep them in your personal bag.
• Celebrate! Once the heavy lifting is done, order pizza, pop open a drink, and enjoy your first night in your new home.

Today may be hectic, but it’s also the exciting first step into your next chapter.

After the Move

Congratulations, you made it! Now it’s time to settle in and turn your new house into a home.

• Unpack essentials first. Kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms should be your priority so you can live comfortably while unpacking.
• Check that utilities are working. Make sure water, electricity, Wi-Fi, and gas are all functioning as expected.
• Do a safety check. Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and locate the main water shut-off valve.
• Update your driver’s license and voter registration. Don’t forget to make your move official with the DMV and local offices.
• Meet your neighbors. A quick hello goes a long way in building community.
• Explore your new area. Try a local coffee shop, take a walk around the neighborhood, or check out nearby parks.

Unpacking is just the beginning; this is your chance to start fresh and make the new space truly yours.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right timeline and preparation, you’ll not only get through it smoothly but maybe even enjoy the process. Remember, it’s not just about moving boxes; it’s about starting fresh in a new space that you’ll soon call home.

If you’re planning a move in the Sacramento area, our team is here to help guide you through the entire process, from house hunting to move-in day.

And as a bonus, we’ve created a printable Ultimate Moving Checklist so you can keep track of everything at a glance.