14 guides
Moving guides, week by week
Independent help for every stage of a US move. We're not a moving company or broker, we don't take referral fees, and we never pass your details to movers.
Plan
Budget, timing and how to move.
- The 8-week moving timeline
What to do eight, six, four and two weeks out, moving week, and the first week after.
- How to build a moving budget
The costs people forget, and how to estimate each one.
- DIY, full-service movers or a container?
How the three main ways to move compare on cost, time and effort.
- Choosing a moving date (and saving money)
Why mid-month, mid-week and off-season moves often cost less.
Hire safely
Estimates, registration, coverage and scams.
- Getting moving estimates you can trust
Binding vs. non-binding estimates, surveys and what should be in writing.
- How to check a mover's registration
USDOT numbers, FMCSA lookups, state rules and complaint histories.
- Moving scams and how to avoid them
Lowball quotes, big deposits and "hostage" loads: the warning signs and what to do.
- Moving "insurance": valuation coverage explained
Released value vs. full value protection, and what each really pays.
Pack
Room by room, and what movers won't take.
- Packing room by room
An order that keeps your home livable until moving day.
- What movers won't take
Hazardous materials, perishables and the things you should carry yourself.
- The first-night box
One box per person, so the first night in the new home is easy.
Settle in
Addresses, utilities and the first week.
- The change-of-address checklist
Everyone who needs your new address, in order.
- Transferring utilities without a gap
When to call, what to ask, and how to avoid paying for two homes.
- Your first week in a new home
Safety, security and the small jobs that make a new place work.