8–12 weeks out: plan and budget

• Define your move date window and create a week‑by‑week checklist covering quotes, packing, documents, and travel.

• Set a realistic budget that includes movers, packing supplies, insurance/protection, travel, lodging, tips, and contingencies.

• Research licensed long‑distance movers, request in‑home/virtual assessments, and compare written estimates line‑by‑line.

6–8 weeks out: edit and prepare

• Declutter by category: keep, donate, sell, recycle; reduce weight to save on long‑haul costs.

• Create a simple home inventory, noting high‑value items and special handling needs.

• Confirm access details at both locations: parking permits, elevator reservations, HOA/COI requirements.

4–6 weeks out: book and organize

• Book your mover and select protection options (e.g., basic coverage or full value protection).

• Reserve specialty services as needed: crating, auto transport, piano/art handling, packing help.

• Order packing materials and specialty cartons (wardrobe, dish, TV/art), plus labels, tape, and padding.

3–4 weeks out: admin and logistics

• Change address with USPS and update banks, insurers, subscriptions, and employer records.

• Schedule utility shut‑off/turn‑on dates for electricity, gas, water, trash, and internet.

• Arrange travel for people and pets; secure pet records and travel certificates if required.

2 weeks out: pack with intent

• Pack non‑essentials first; build clearly labeled “Open First” boxes for kitchen, bath, and bedrooms.

• Photograph electronics/cable setups; bag screws and hardware with matching labels.

• Set aside a do‑not‑pack zone for documents, medications, valuables, and travel bags.

1 week out: confirm and protect

• Review the inventory and high‑value declarations; confirm dates, time windows, and crew details.

• Prepare buildings: reserve elevators, protect floors, and post simple floor plans for efficient placement.

• Stage boxes by room; keep pathways clear; verify parking instructions for the truck.

Moving day: smooth execution

• Start with a walkthrough to confirm items, access, and special handling; sign load paperwork.

• Keep one point of contact on site to approve decisions and answer questions quickly.

• Before departure, conduct a final sweep of closets, cabinets, attic, garage, and outdoor areas.

In transit: understand the timeline

• Track your delivery window; be reachable for updates and route confirmations.

• If plans change, coordinate promptly to avoid storage or redelivery fees.

• Prepare for variable factors like weather, road closures, or building restrictions.

Delivery day: receive and verify

• Meet the crew, review placement preferences, and reference your floor plan and labels.

• Check off items against the inventory; note any concerns on delivery documents.

• Assemble beds first, connect essentials, and set aside packaging for recycling.

First week: settle and optimize

• Finish utility setups, internet test, and safety checks (smoke/CO detectors, locks).

• Update local registrations as needed: driver’s license, vehicle, and voter registration.

• Explore the neighborhood, map commute routes, and identify key services and stores.