Moving to a new home or apartment is an exciting adventure, but the thought of packing up your entire life and transporting it to a new location can be quite daunting. Whether you’re just relocating across town or across the country, moving can be a stressful time. 

That's why having a moving checklist with a timeline can make all the difference. Think of it like a roadmap that guides you through the process and helps you avoid the last-minute panic of realizing you forgot something important. 

Breaking down the moving process into smaller, manageable tasks, will not only make you feel more organized, but you will also get a better idea of what needs to be done and when. 

Let's dive into our comprehensive moving checklist with to-do timelines to help you make the transition to your new home as smooth as possible.

Two Months Before

1. Research and Decide on a Moving Company

If you plan to hire movers, it’s crucial to do your research when it comes to choosing a moving company. Look up reviews online and ask friends and family for recommendations. Once you've found a few potential companies, get quotes in writing and compare prices.

2. Sort and Declutter

Take some time to go through each room in your house and ask yourself these three questions.

1. 
   Have you used the item within the last year?
2. Does the item still serve its purpose?
3. Is the item worth the effort and cost to transport it to your new home?

Be sure to consider whether any items will require special packing or extra insurance coverage during the move. 

This process of decluttering can be refreshing, allowing you to start fresh in your new space with only the items that bring you joy and serve a practical purpose.

3. Schedule Cancellations of Utilities and Services

Since some utility providers may have longer wait times or require additional paperwork, remember to contact your providers to schedule the shutdown of services at your current home and the setup of services at your new home in advance. This includes:

• 
  Electricity
• Gas
• Water
• Internet
• Cable
• Homeowners/Renters Insurance

4. Give Notice to Landlord or Property Manager (Renters Only)

Don’t forget to give your landlord or property manager a heads up during the notice period of 30 to 90 days before you move out. However, the notice period is different depending on your rental agreement and state laws so it’s best to double-check. 

To avoid any additional fees while moving out, it’s important to speak with your property manager about any requirements and expectations. Being on the same page regarding the condition of your unit and any damages that may need to be addressed will ensure a more seamless move-out process.

For any of our residents that live in a Reside Living property, we offer an EasyMove Program that makes moving out easier than ever. We’ll cover all the deep cleaning and small details that may be overlooked during a busy move so that you don’t have to worry about being charged additional fees. 

Six Weeks Before

5. Take Measurements of Your New Home

To avoid any unpleasant surprises on moving day, take measurements of your new home to ensure that your furniture will fit through entryways. Measure the width, height, and length of all doorways, hallways, and stairwells and take note of room dimensions.

6. Order Moving Supplies

Before you start packing, order all the necessary supplies to keep your things safe and organized during the move. This includes sturdy moving boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and permanent markers for writing labels. 

You can purchase moving supplies online or from your local hardware store, and some moving companies even offer packing supplies as part of their services. 

7. Request Time Off From Work

Even the most well-prepared and organized moving days can be chaotic, so it's best to clear your schedule and focus on the move. 

If you have pets, it might also be a good idea to arrange for a sitter or friend to watch them for the day. Additionally, it's a good idea to have someone you trust on hand to oversee the move and make sure things are going according to plan. 

One Month Before

8. Confirm Moving Company Arrangements

Reach out to your moving company and confirm the delivery date of your belongings to ensure that everything is still on schedule. If there are any changes or delays, it's better to know as soon as possible so you can make alternate arrangements.

9. Begin Packing

Before you dive into packing, prioritize non-essential items that can be put away sooner, like your vinyl record collection or that waffle maker you only use once in a while. 

Keep in mind any items that are especially valuable and might require additional insurance from your moving company. To be safe, you can also declare in writing any items valued over $100 per pound, such as a computer.

10. Eat Through Your Fridge and Pantry

Why waste good food when you can use it up before moving day? Get creative with what's in your freezer and pantry and create some delicious meals. Not only will this save you money on groceries, but it will also lighten the load when it comes time to pack.

11. Send Notice of Your New Address

Changing your address may be a “before” or “after” item on your to-do list, depending on when you have access to your new place. 

Here are the places and people you should remember to notify when changing your address: 

• 
  USPS Change-of-Address
• Medical and Dental Providers
• Credit Card Companies and Banks 
• Subscription Services (meal-prep deliveries, prescription deliveries, newspapers, magazines)
• Department of Motor Vehicles 
• Voter Registration
• Employers
• Accountant
• Friends and Family

Moving Week

12. Reconfirm Moving Company Arrangements

As the big day approaches, it's important to verify that all the arrangements are in order for the move. 

Reconfirm the arrival time with the moving company and provide other specifics, like exact written directions to your new home address to help them navigate with ease and avoid delays. It's also a good idea to include your contact information, such as your cell phone number, so the staff can easily reach you if needed. 

13. Confirm Appointments for Utilities and Internet at Your New Home

By now, you've likely sorted out your utility services for the new place, but it never hurts to double-check and confirm appointments for cable service, internet installation, and any new utility providers. 

And if you haven't scheduled these new installations yet, there's no time like the present. These appointments can fill up quickly, so try to schedule them as soon as possible to avoid any potential headaches down the road.

14. Defrost Your Refrigerator

About two days before the move, defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer. 

Begin by emptying the contents and tossing any unwanted food items. Then, turn off the appliance and allow it to defrost for at least 24 hours. Once the ice has melted, wipe down the interior with a mixture of warm water and mild soap.

15. Pack Personal Essentials

Aim to wrap up your general packing the week before your moving date and also set aside a few days' worth of clothing, toiletries, medications, and other personal items you'll need while the rest of your belongings are in transit. Pack these items in a clearly labeled box or suitcase so you can easily find them when you begin unpacking at your new home.

The Day Before

16. Plan For Tipping Movers

Moving is hard work and professional movers do their best to make the process as smooth as possible. While tipping is not a requirement, it's a great way to show your appreciation for their hard work. 

Most professional movers get paid just a little over minimum wage, so a little extra cash can go a long way. The general rule of thumb is to tip between 15% to 20% of the total cost of the move, and to do so in cash. 

17. Prepare Snacks and Refreshments

Sometimes it's easy to forget about the little things, like making sure you have enough fuel to keep going throughout the day. That's why it's a great idea to prepare some healthy snacks on hand to keep your energy levels up while you're packing and loading your belongings onto the moving truck. 

And although your movers may bring their own food and water, offering them some refreshments is a nice gesture that can go a long way. 

18. Treat Yourself

At this point, your kitchen is likely already packed away and your groceries will be pretty much consumed. 

Now's the perfect moment to indulge in one final meal at your favorite local restaurant with friends and family. Take the opportunity to relax and savor the moment, knowing that all your hard work will soon be rewarded with a fresh start in your new home.

The Day Of

19. Have One Last Look

Before saying farewell to your old home, close all of the windows, turn off all the lights, and lock the doors behind you. Double-check the moving truck before it departs to ensure that everything is accounted for and take a final walk-through to ensure that nothing has been forgotten.

20. Return Your Keys

One of the final steps in the moving process is returning your keys so don’t forget to give them back to your landlord during the final walk-through of your old place. If you’re selling your home, coordinate with your real estate agent to ensure the new owners or realtors receive the keys.

If you forget to return them, you'll have to go through the hassle of mailing them back later so don't let this small but important task slip your mind amidst the move.

Happy Moving!

By following this moving checklist and to-do timeline, you can stay on top of all the important tasks and deadlines, and ensure that your move goes as stress-free as possible. 

Remember that the moving process is temporary, and you’ll be all settled in and ready for your next adventure in no time.

If you’re interested in taking the next steps to getting acquainted with Reside Living’s Chicago Apartments, learn more about our various apartment properties in the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods here.