Overview

Moving Checklist Part 3

Today I’m going to give you the third installment of my five-part moving checklist series. If you haven’t seen the earlier posts, you can start with what to do three to five months before you move and then check out what to do six to eight weeks before you move. The entire series is designed to relieve some of the fear and anxiety associated with moving. By following these guidelines, you’ll feel more organized, more confident, and better prepared. Today, we’ll cover what to do when you are one month away from moving day.

What to Do One Month Before You Move

With just a month to go, it’s time to shift into high gear. This phase is all about confirming details, getting organized, and starting the packing process to ensure a smooth and stress-free moving day.

Finalize and Confirm Moving Arrangements

Now is the time to double-check all the details with your moving company. Make sure you have a written confirmation that includes your scheduled moving date, estimated costs, and any services you’ve requested, such as packing, storage, or special handling. Review the terms carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything you’re unsure of. It’s also wise to reconfirm contact information so that both you and the movers can easily stay in touch on moving day. Getting everything in writing and verifying the details will give you peace of mind and help avoid any last-minute surprises.

Start Packing

With one month to go, it’s time to begin the packing process in earnest. Start with items you use infrequently, things like seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, specialty kitchen appliances, or collectibles. Pack these carefully and label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs in. If any items require special handling or packing by your mover, set them aside and mark them accordingly.

This is also the time to take inventory of your high-value items. Anything worth more than $100 per pound, such as computers, stereo equipment, or fine art, should be documented and declared in writing to your moving company. This will ensure proper handling and protect you in the event of damage or loss. Taking the time to organize and pack thoughtfully now will make unpacking in your new home much more manageable.

Label Boxes

As you pack, take the time to label every box clearly and consistently. Include both the contents and the room it’s intended for, for example, “Kitchen: Pots and Pans” or “Bedroom: Winter Clothes.” This simple step will make unpacking much more efficient and will help your movers place boxes in the correct rooms at your new home.

It’s also a smart idea to pack a separate box of essential items you’ll need right away, such as toiletries, phone chargers, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchenware. Label this box clearly with something like “Open First” or “Important Items.” Keeping those necessities within easy reach will make your first night in your new home far more comfortable and stress-free.

Separate and Pack Valuables

Take time to identify and safely pack any small, high-value items such as jewelry, passports, important documents, heirlooms, and small electronics. These items are not only valuable in terms of cost but often hold sentimental or personal significance and they’re typically not covered under standard moving insurance if lost or damaged.

Use padded containers, lockable boxes, or sealable bags to protect these items, and label them discreetly for your reference. It's best to personally transport these valuables with you rather than placing them on the moving truck. Whether you're driving or flying to your new home, keeping them in your possession ensures they remain safe, accessible, and accounted for during the transition.

Change Your Address

One month before your move is the perfect time to officially change your address. Start by visiting your local post office or go online to the USPS Change of Address page to have your mail forwarded to your new home. This simple step ensures that you don’t miss any important bills, documents, or personal correspondence during the transition.

In addition to forwarding your mail, be sure to update your address with credit card companies, banks, insurance providers, medical offices, and any subscriptions or services you use regularly, such as streaming platforms or delivery apps. Keeping these accounts up to date will help prevent service interruptions and give you peace of mind once you’ve settled into your new location.

Forward Medical Records

If you’ve already chosen a health care provider in your new area, now is the time to arrange for your medical records to be transferred. Contact your current doctor’s office and request that your records—along with any specialist reports, immunization histories, and prescription information—be sent directly to your new provider. You may need to sign a release form, so don’t wait until the last minute to make the request.

If you haven’t selected a new doctor yet, consider asking your current provider for a copy of your records to take with you. This ensures you’ll have your medical history on hand in case of an emergency or until you establish care in your new community. If you have children or pets, don’t forget to do the same for their pediatricians and veterinarians. Keeping your health information organized will help you and your family transition smoothly into your new routines.

Next on the moving checklist, we’ll cover what to do when you are two weeks away from moving. By that point, things will be moving quickly, and staying organized will be more important than ever. The steps you take now, confirming your mover, gathering supplies, and getting your home and records in order, will set the stage for a smooth and stress-free final stretch. Keep up the momentum, and you’ll be ready when moving day arrives. Stay tuned for part four of the series!

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