Moving Checklist: What to Do 8 Weeks Before Moving Day

The best way to avoid a last-minute scramble is to spread the work out. This checklist breaks the two months before your move into manageable stages, so you're never trying to do everything in the final week.

8 Weeks Out: Start the Big-Picture Planning

Research and get quotes from at least two or three moving companies. Start a rough budget that includes movers, packing supplies, and any deposits for your new place. If you're moving with kids, start looking into school enrollment timelines for the new area.

6 Weeks Out: Book Your Movers and Start Sorting

Lock in your moving date and crew — this is especially important if you're moving during peak season (May through August in Austin). Begin going through closets, the garage, and storage areas to decide what's coming with you and what's getting donated or sold.

4 Weeks Out: Gather Packing Supplies and Start Non-Essentials

Collect boxes, tape, and packing paper. Start packing items you won't need in the next month — out-of-season clothes, books, decor, guest room items. Label boxes by room as you go, not at the end.

3 Weeks Out: Handle the Paperwork

Submit a mail forwarding request with USPS. Notify utility companies at both your current and new address about start/stop dates. If you're changing school districts, finalize enrollment paperwork now.

2 Weeks Out: Confirm the Details

Call your moving company to confirm date, time, and any special items (piano, safe, artwork). Start packing your kitchen, keeping out only what you'll use in the final two weeks. Arrange care for kids or pets on moving day if you'll need it.

1 Week Out: Pack Everything Except the Essentials

Finish packing all but a small "last week" box of daily essentials. Defrost and clean the refrigerator if it's coming with you. Set aside important documents, medications, and valuables to transport yourself rather than on the truck.

Moving Day: Final Walkthrough

Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, and cabinet before the truck pulls away. Keep your day-one box, chargers, and any documents with you rather than packed away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many weeks before moving should I book a moving company? Aim for at least three to six weeks out, especially during Austin's busy season from May through August. Popular weekend dates fill up fastest.

When should I submit a change of address with USPS? About two to three weeks before your move is a safe window — early enough to make sure mail starts forwarding by your move date, not so early that mail intended for your old address gets misrouted too soon.

What should I pack last? Kitchen essentials, toiletries, a few days of clothing, chargers, and any documents or medications you want to keep with you rather than on the truck.

Do utility companies need advance notice to switch service? Most utility providers ask for at least a few days' notice, though some request more. Three weeks out is a safe time to schedule stop and start dates for both addresses.

What's the single most common thing people forget when moving? Items in less-obvious storage spots — attics, garages, under-stair closets, and outdoor sheds — tend to get missed in a final walkthrough more than any other category.

Ready to Book Your Crew?

Working from a checklist instead of memory is the easiest way to keep a move from turning stressful. When you're ready to book, Playhouse Moving offers transparent hourly pricing with no hidden fees across the Austin metro. Get your free quote at playhousemoving.com or call (737) 285-5900.