The Ultimate Change Of Address Checklist For A Stress-Free Move

Tony Yee • March 14, 2023

Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life – there’s so much to remember and take care of that it can be overwhelming! But with a suitable checklist and plan, you can ensure your move is as stress-free as possible. That’s why we’ve created The Ultimate Change of Address Checklist for a Stress-Free Move. It outlines all the steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition from your old home to your new one.



This comprehensive checklist ensures every detail is noticed, from updating important documents to notifying service providers. By following it, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your move will go smoothly.


Create a Moving Timeline

Start your planning early by creating a timeline. List every task you need to complete before moving day, from scheduling movers and giving notice to transferring utilities and forwarding mail. Assign due dates to each item and prioritize key steps such as notifying your landlord or arranging storage.


Start Packing Early

Begin packing well in advance, starting with non-essential items like seasonal clothes or décor. Label each box with its contents and destination room. Consider color-coding for extra organization. Use protective materials for fragile items to prevent damage during the move.

Purge Unnecessary Items

Take time to declutter. Go room by room and decide what to donate, sell, or toss. This helps save space and money, since you won’t pay to move items you no longer use. Fewer items also mean a smoother packing and unpacking experience.


Notify Important Contacts

Update your address with your employer, bank, insurance providers, subscription services, and any memberships. Let friends and family know too. This ensures everyone has your correct contact details.


Forward Your Mail

Set up mail forwarding through USPS online or in person. This service redirects letters, postcards, and small packages for up to 12 months. It’s a crucial step in making sure you don’t miss important communications during the move.


Change Your Address With the Post Office

Fill out a change of address form at your local post office or online. You’ll need to verify your identity and pay a small processing fee. Keep an eye out for any mail still arriving at your old address to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.


Update Your Driver’s License

If you're moving to a new state, check your DMV's requirements for updating your license. Gather necessary documents like proof of residency and your current license. Some updates can be done online, but others require a visit to the DMV.


Transfer Utilities and Services

Contact your utility providers to transfer or cancel service. Set up electricity, gas, water, internet, and waste collection for your new home in advance. Confirm service activation dates so you're not left without essentials on move-in day.


Research the New Area

Familiarize yourself with your new neighborhood. Look up local services, grocery stores, public transportation, schools, and emergency contacts. Getting to know your surroundings helps you feel more at home more quickly.


Create a Moving Plan

Build a step-by-step plan to keep things organized. Note packing priorities, set weekly goals, and budget your time and expenses. An organized approach reduces stress and keeps your move on track.

Frequently Asked Questions


What is the best way to store important documents during a move?


Keep documents with you in a secure folder or lockbox. You can also scan and save digital copies to cloud storage or a USB drive for backup.


How can I ensure my mail is delivered to the new address?


Notify the USPS, update your address with important contacts, and monitor mail delivery during the transition.


Are there any additional fees associated with changing my address?


Yes, USPS charges a $1.05 fee for online changes to verify your identity. Premium forwarding services may incur extra costs.


What should I do if I need to replace my driver’s license?


Contact your local DMV. Bring required documents like proof of residency and a valid ID. Check if you can complete the process online.


How can I find reputable movers in my new area?


 Ask for referrals, read reviews, and compare quotes from multiple providers. Choose licensed, insured movers with positive customer feedback.

Crafting a Moving Timeline for a Smooth Relocation

By Tony Yee • August 14, 2025
Moving can be one of life's most stressful events, but it doesn't have to be. The secret to a smooth , stress-free relocation lies in meticulous planning and organization. By creating a moving timeline, you can break down a seemingly overwhelming task into manageable steps, ensuring everything is handled well in advance . This proactive approach not only minimizes anxiety but also helps you avoid costly last-minute surprises. A well-structured moving timeline acts as your personal roadmap, guiding you through each stage of the process, from decluttering your current home to settling into your new one. It helps you stay on track, prioritize tasks, and allocate your time efficiently. For instance, did you know that, on average, people underestimate the time required for packing by about 50%? A timeline helps you account for such common pitfalls. This guide will walk you through creating a moving timeline that's both realistic and effective, ensuring your upcoming relocation is as calm and organized as possible. We'll explore various stages of the entire process, providing actionable advice and demonstrating how a professional moving company like 87 Movers Las Vegas can easily support your strategy, offering expert assistance precisely when you need it. Let 87 Movers Las Vegas help make your move a truly smooth and stress-free moving day . What is a moving timeline and why is it essential? A moving timeline is a detailed schedule outlining all the tasks you need to complete before, during, and after your move, typically broken down into weeks or months. It is essential because it transforms a chaotic process into a structured, manageable project. Without a timeline, it's easy to forget critical steps, leading to rushed decisions, increased stress, and potentially higher costs. By meticulously planning each phase, you can prevent the common pitfalls associated with moving, such as running out of packing supplies, forgetting to transfer utilities, or scrambling to find a reliable mover at the last minute. It empowers you to tackle tasks systematically, ensuring nothing is overlooked. When should you start planning your move? You should start planning your move as soon as you know your moving date, ideally at least 8 weeks out for a local move and 12 weeks or more for a long-distance relocation. Beginning early provides ample time to research moving companies, declutter your home, and sort through logistics without feeling rushed. Many people underestimate the sheer volume of items they own, and decluttering alone can take several weeks. Starting early allows for a more thoughtful and less stressful process. For example, a study by the American Moving and Storage Association found that most people spend an average of 3-4 weeks packing, but this can vary significantly based on household size.

How to Pack Fragile Items Safely: Your Ultimate Guide for a Smooth Move

By Tony Yee • August 8, 2025
Moving is often cited as one of life's most stressful events, and the thought of packing delicate heirlooms and cherished breakables can add another layer of anxiety. The good news is that with the right approach and proper materials, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to pack fragile items safely, ensuring your precious belongings arrive at your new home intact. Whether it's a collection of delicate glassware, an antique vase, or sensitive electronics, understanding the best packing techniques is crucial. And remember, for those in the Las Vegas area seeking professional assistance with their delicate items, 87 Movers Las Vegas is always ready to provide expert packing and moving services. What Essential Supplies Do You Need to Pack Fragile Items Safely? To pack fragile items safely, you'll need a specific set of high-quality packing materials designed to provide maximum protection. Using the right supplies is the first critical step in preventing damage during transit. Strong Moving Boxes: Opt for sturdy, double-walled corrugated boxes, especially for heavier or more delicate items. Look for specialized boxes like dish pack kits (cell kits) that offer built-in dividers. Bubble Wrap: Essential for cushioning and shock absorption. Purchase various sizes, from small bubbles for glassware to large bubbles for larger, more robust items. Packing Paper/Newsprint: Ideal for wrapping individual items, filling voids, and providing a clean, scratch-free layer of protection. Avoid using newspapers directly on items that could smudge. Packing Peanuts: Excellent for filling empty spaces in boxes and cushioning irregular-shaped items. Packing Tape: Use strong, wide packing tape (2-3 inches) to seal boxes securely. Invest in a good tape dispenser for efficiency. Markers: Clearly label boxes as "FRAGILE" and indicate their contents and the room they belong to. Scissors or Box Cutter: For cutting tape and opening packing material. Furniture Pads/Moving Blankets: Useful for protecting larger fragile items like mirrors or artwork.
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