Your Step-by-Step Moving Checklist

Between packing, paperwork, and everything else on your list, there is not much room for putting things off. The earlier you start, the fewer surprises you get on moving day. Our crews have helped thousands of families move over more than 20 years, and this is the timeline we give our own customers.

Use the steps below as a guide, or build your own dated checklist with the planner further down the page. If you would rather hand off the hardest parts, our packing solutions and residential moving crews can take them off your list. For moves anywhere in the city, see our main page for Denver movers.

Preparation Timeline for Your Move

What to do, and when, before moving day arrives.

8 Weeks Before

  • Start a folder for quotes, receipts, and your lease or closing papers.
  • Get written estimates and book your movers.
  • Ask for time off work for moving day.
  • Start decluttering: sell, donate, or toss what you will not move.

6 Weeks Before

  • Gather boxes, tape, and packing paper, or book a packing crew.
  • Measure doorways and stairs at your new home for large furniture.
  • Take photos of how your electronics are wired.

4 Weeks Before

  • Reserve elevators, loading docks, or street parking for the truck if your building or street needs it.
  • Schedule utility shutoff at your old home and setup at your new one.
  • Start packing the rooms you use least.
  • Gather important documents: financial, medical, and legal.

2 Weeks Before

  • Set up your USPS change of address.
  • Update your address with your bank, employer, and subscriptions.
  • Use up frozen food and pantry items.
  • Dispose of items movers cannot take, like paint, propane, and aerosol cans.
  • Back up your computers.

The Week of Your Move

  • Finish packing everything except your essentials.
  • Pack an essentials box with medicine, documents, chargers, and a change of clothes.
  • Confirm the time and details with your movers.
  • Transfer your homeowners or renters insurance to the new address.