Moving checklist: week-by-week plan for your move
This moving checklist splits a Central Florida move into 7 phases, from 8 weeks before to the first week after, with notes on heat, storms and HOA rules.
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What should be on a moving checklist?
A moving checklist should cover about 8 weeks of tasks: book movers and check building rules first, then sort and declutter, schedule utilities and a USPS change of address, pack room by room, prepare an essentials bag and finish with a final walkthrough. In Florida, also plan around summer heat, afternoon storms and hurricane season.
How to use this moving checklist
Use this moving checklist by starting at the phase that matches the time you have left, then work forward week by week. If you are 4 weeks out, start there and pick up any 8-week and 6-week items that still matter.
Each phase lists 5 to 7 tasks. They are written for Central Florida, where summer heat, afternoon thunderstorms, hurricane season and HOA or building rules can change how a moving day goes.
Book your movers early in the plan. Whether you need local moving or long-distance moving to another state, a free quote is the first thing to tick off.
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. If your move falls in those months, pick a backup date and keep important documents in a waterproof bag you carry yourself.
Week-by-week moving checklist
Work through each phase in order. Tick items off as you go, and move anything you skip into the next phase.
- 8 weeks before
Set the plan0 of 6
- 6 weeks before
Sort and reduce0 of 6
- 4 weeks before
Book and notify0 of 6
- 2 weeks before
Pack room by room0 of 6
- 1 week before
Final prep0 of 6
- Moving day
Moving day0 of 7
- First week after
Settle in0 of 7
Packing supplies to have ready
Have these on hand before you start packing. If you want help, our packing services include basic packing materials on request.
Boxes in 3 sizes
Small boxes for books and heavy items, medium for kitchen goods and large for linens and light items.
Packing tape and a dispenser
Tape the bottom of every box twice across the seam so it holds under weight.
Packing paper and bubble wrap
Wrap dishes, glasses and frames one by one, and fill gaps so nothing rattles.
Markers and labels
Label each box with the room and a short list of contents on at least 2 sides.
Zip bags and a basic tool kit
Keep screws and hardware in labeled bags taped to the furniture they belong to.
Mattress bags and covers
Bags keep mattresses clean and dry, which matters when a summer storm hits during loading.
A small cleaning kit
Keep a broom, paper towels and cleaner aside for a final pass of the old home.
What to do if you are short on time
If you are short on time, focus on 4 things: book the movers, pack an essentials bag, set up power and water at the new home, and file your USPS change of address. Everything else can follow in the first week.
Skip sorting on the day. Pack everything by room, and deal with the extras later or book junk removal for what you no longer want.
For a move that has to happen today or tomorrow, same-day movers can help when a crew is available. Availability is confirmed when you book, and basic packing support is available on request.
- Book the movers first, before anything else
- Pack by room and label every box
- Carry documents, medications and valuables yourself
- Leave assembly and repairs for after the move
Get a free quote for your move
Tell us your date and both addresses, and we will quote your move before any work starts.
- Rather call?(321) 746-7992
- Open 7 daysMon to Sun, 9 AM to 10 PM
- Free quotesPriced before any work starts
Get a free quote
We’ll call you back with a clear price.
Common questions
Can’t find your answer? Call or email and you’ll get a straight answer from our team. More answers are on our FAQ page.
- Phone(321) 746-7992
- Emailsupport@prhandymovers.com
- HoursMon to Sun, 9 AM to 10 PM
When should I start my moving checklist?
Start about 8 weeks before your moving date if you can. That leaves time to get quotes, sort your things and book building approvals without rushing.
What is the first thing to do when you move?
Set your moving date and book your movers first. Then check your HOA or building rules, since approvals and elevator bookings can take time.
Is it a bad idea to move during hurricane season in Florida?
No, but plan for it. Keep a backup date, watch the forecast the week before and carry important documents with you in a waterproof bag.
When should I set up utilities at the new home?
Schedule utilities about 4 weeks before the move. Ask for power and water to be on the day before you arrive, so the home is cool and lit when the truck pulls up.
What should I not put on the moving truck?
Carry documents, medications, valuables and your essentials bag yourself. Mention any paint, chemicals or fuel to your movers at booking so they can be discussed before the move.
Related pages
Local movingHomes, apartments and condos moved across Central Florida, packed, loaded and placed room by room.
Packing and loadingPacking help, furniture wrapping and careful loading, or loading-only help for your own truck.
Same-day movingShort-notice moves finished the day you book, when a crew is free.
Long-distance movingMoves from Central Florida to other states with labeled inventory, protection and a set delivery plan.