8 Weeks Before Moving Day
Create a moving budget — include movers, supplies, deposits, and travel costs
Research and get quotes from at least 3 moving companies
Start decluttering — donate, sell, or discard items you won't need
Create a folder for important documents (lease, mortgage docs, IDs)
If you have kids, research schools and request records transfer
6 Weeks Before
Book your moving company and confirm the date
Start collecting packing supplies — boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers
Notify your landlord if you're renting (check lease for notice requirements)
Start packing non-essential items — seasonal clothes, books, decor
Arrange for medical records, prescriptions, and vet records to transfer
4 Weeks Before
Submit a change of address with USPS
Update your address with banks, insurance, subscriptions, and employers
Transfer or set up utilities at your new home (electric, gas, water, internet)
Continue packing room by room — label every box clearly
Arrange for childcare or pet care on moving day
2 Weeks Before
Confirm moving company details — arrival time, address, special instructions
Clean out refrigerator and plan to use up perishable food
Return borrowed items and collect anything you've lent out
Prepare a "first night" box — toiletries, change of clothes, medications, chargers, snacks
Take photos of electronics setups before disconnecting
Moving Week
Finish packing everything except essentials
Defrost freezer and clean all appliances
Do a final walkthrough — check every closet, drawer, and cabinet
Keep important documents, valuables, and medications with you (not on the truck)
Say goodbye to neighbors and leave keys/garage openers as needed
Moving Day
Be present when movers arrive — walk through the plan with the crew lead
Do a final sweep of every room before leaving
Check that all utilities are off at the old place and on at the new one
Review and sign inventory and condition sheets with movers
Inspect the new home before unloading — note any issues
After You're In
Update your driver's license and vehicle registration (Pennsylvania requires this within 60 days)
Register to vote at your new address
Find new doctors, dentists, and veterinarians
Change locks and reprogram garage door openers
Meet your neighbors — you'd be surprised how much it helps
Moving to Pennsylvania? Mega Realty agents can help coordinate your entire relocation — from finding the right home to recommending movers, contractors, and local services. We're here to make the transition as smooth as possible.