Moving can feel overwhelming, but a detailed plan makes it manageable. This guide covers everything from budgeting and decluttering to transferring utilities and caring for kids and pets. Use it to stay on track and avoid last‑minute surprises.
Browse electricity plans.
Create a moving budget: List major costs (movers/truck rental, packing supplies, travel expenses, deposits, cleaning fees) and set aside a buffer—about 10 % extra for unexpected costs.
Choose a moving date strategically: A mid‑week or mid‑month move is often cheaper and easier to schedule.
Decide between professional movers and DIY: Pros bring experience and equipment, while a DIY move can save money if you have a smaller home and reliable helpers.
Notify landlords and realtors: Give your current landlord the required notice and schedule a move‑out inspection. Coordinate closing dates if you’re buying or selling.
Gather supplies and important documents: Stock up on boxes, tape, labels, and padding materials. Keep passports, birth certificates, lease/mortgage papers, insurance documents, and school or medical records in a folder you’ll transport personally.
Reduce what you move: Sell, donate, or recycle items you don’t need—moving fewer items cuts costs.
Begin packing rarely used items: Seasonal clothing, books, and decor can be boxed first. Label boxes clearly with both room and contents, and consider color‑coding by room.
Order or collect more packing supplies: Ensure you have enough boxes and wrapping materials to avoid last‑minute runs.
Contact utilities and services: Schedule start and stop dates for electricity, water, natural gas, trash, internet/cable, and any home security services. Most companies need 2–4 weeks’ notice. If moving within Texas, research electricity providers and pick a plan for your new ZIP code—plans and rates differ by area.
Plan for overlapping utilities: If you need power at both homes for a few days, ask your provider to keep your old service on until a day or two after your move while starting service at the new home the day before you arrive.
Pack in earnest: Focus on non‑daily items, keeping heavier items in smaller boxes and labeling “Fragile” as needed.
Donate or use food: Consume perishable food and donate unopened, non‑perishables.
Update your address: File a change of address with the post office and update banks, subscriptions, insurance, and medical providers.
Check upcoming appointments: Confirm move‑in/out times with building managers or HOAs, especially if there are elevator reservations or parking instructions.
Pack essentials kits: Put together personal bags with clothes, medications, toiletries, chargers, important papers, basic tools, and snacks so you won’t search through boxes on arrival.
Confirm movers/truck reservations and utility appointments: Re‑check details with movers and confirm installation dates for internet or security systems.
Prepare your old home: Finish deep cleaning, patch holes, and unplug appliances that stay behind. If your fridge is coming with you, defrost it 24 hours ahead.
Arrange care for kids and pets: Line up babysitters or pet‑sitters for moving day. Keep kids and pets away from heavy lifting areas so they stay safe.
Plan meals: Empty the fridge and pantry and plan simple meals.
Pack an overnight bag: Include pyjamas, an extra outfit, toothbrush, and chargers. Carry valuables and key documents with you—don’t put them on the moving truck.
Do a final walk‑through: Open every cabinet, closet, and drawer to make sure nothing is forgotten.
Prepare your old home for handover: Leave keys as agreed and take photos of empty rooms if you rent, in case of deposit disputes.
Get rest and stay hydrated: Moving day is physical; drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep.
Wake up early: Give yourself extra time. Dress comfortably and eat a solid breakfast.
Protect pathways and floors: Lay down old rugs or cardboard in high‑traffic areas to avoid scratches or mud.
Direct movers or helpers: Tell them which boxes are fragile and which room each box belongs to. Keep children and pets in a safe area with supervised activities.
Take inventory: Count boxes and note condition of furniture. Photograph special pieces for peace of mind.
Perform final checks and lock up: Turn off lights, close windows, and make sure all utility shutoffs are completed.
At the new home: Do a quick clean before unloading, make sure utilities are on, and confirm all items made it safely.
Unpack essentials first: Beds, bathroom supplies, and basic kitchen items. Work room by room so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Confirm utilities: Ensure electricity, gas, water, and internet are functioning; call providers if anything isn’t working.
Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration: In Texas you typically have 30 days to update your car registration and 90 days for your driver’s license.
Register to vote, find local services: Update voter registration and locate nearby clinics, grocery stores, and emergency services.
Secure your home: Change the locks, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and review your home security plan.
Meet your neighbors: Introduce yourself and start exploring your new neighborhood.
Kids: Talk about the move early and involve them in small decisions. Create a moving day kit with favorite toys, books, and snacks. Maintain normal routines for meals and bedtime as much as possible.
Pets: Prepare them by leaving moving boxes out ahead of time so they get comfortable. Keep their feeding and walking schedules consistent. Use a carrier or crate for travel, pack a pet essentials bag (food, water, medications, leash), and create a quiet safe space away from the chaos on moving day.
