A successful move doesn't happen on moving day — it starts weeks in advance. Whether you're relocating within Manchester or heading across state lines, having a detailed timeline keeps you organized and reduces last-minute panic. Here's our proven week-by-week checklist, refined over nearly five decades of helping families move.
8 Weeks Before Moving Day
This is when the foundation gets laid. The earlier you start, the fewer surprises you'll face later.
- Research moving companies — get at least three in-home estimates (see our guide on how to choose a moving company)
- Create a moving binder — keep all estimates, contracts, and receipts in one place
- Start decluttering — go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard
- Notify your landlord if you're renting — most leases require 30-60 days' notice
- Research your new area — schools, doctors, utilities, and local services
6 Weeks Before Moving Day
By now you should have selected your moving company and confirmed a date. Time to handle the logistics.
- Book your moving company — popular dates fill up fast, especially in summer
- Start collecting packing supplies — boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper
- Begin packing non-essentials — seasonal items, books, decor, guest room
- Arrange for storage if needed — climate-controlled options protect sensitive items
- Request time off work for moving day and at least one day after
4 Weeks Before Moving Day
The halfway point. Momentum matters — keep the packing moving forward.
- Forward your mail through USPS (you can do this online)
- Transfer utilities — schedule disconnection at your old address and connection at your new one
- Update your address with banks, insurance, subscriptions, and the DMV
- Pack room by room — label every box with contents and destination room
- Take photos of electronics setups before disconnecting them — you'll thank yourself later
2 Weeks Before Moving Day
The finish line is in sight. Confirm everything and tie up loose ends.
- Confirm with your movers — verify date, arrival time, and any special instructions
- Pack a "first night" box — toiletries, phone chargers, medications, pajamas, snacks, and a change of clothes
- Clean and defrost the refrigerator 24 hours before the move
- Arrange pet and child care for moving day — keep them safe and out of the chaos
- Disassemble furniture that needs it — keep hardware in labeled bags taped to the piece
Moving Week
This is the final push. Stay focused and let your checklist guide you.
- Pack the last essentials — kitchen items you've been using, bathroom supplies, bedding
- Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, cabinet, and the garage
- Charge all devices — you'll need your phone for coordinating on moving day
- Prepare cash for tips — $20-40 per mover for a full-day move is standard in Connecticut
- Clear parking and pathways — make sure the moving truck can get as close as possible
Moving Day
You've done the preparation. Now let the professionals handle the heavy lifting.
- Be present and available — your crew lead will have questions about placement
- Do a final walkthrough before the truck leaves
- Check the inventory sheet against your belongings
- Provide refreshments — water and snacks for your crew go a long way
- Inspect everything at delivery and note any damage on the paperwork immediately
Pro tip: Keep important documents (IDs, passports, closing paperwork, medical records) with you at all times — never put them on the truck.
After the Move
You're in! But there's still a short list to check off in the first week.
- Unpack essentials first — kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom
- Update your driver's license and vehicle registration within 60 days (Connecticut law)
- Register to vote at your new address
- Meet your neighbors — a friendly introduction goes a long way
- Leave a review for your movers — honest feedback helps other families
Get Started Today
The best time to start planning is right now. Whether your move is eight weeks away or two, Manchester Movers can help you pull it all together. Request a free quote and let us take the heavy lifting off your plate — literally.