There’s nothing quite like the mix of excitement and chaos that comes with moving. Packing up your life and relocating—whether across the street or across the country—is a monumental task, especially if you’ve accumulated more than your fair share of things over the years. But before you spiral into stress over boxes and bubble wrap, a solid moving plan can help keep everything (and everyone) in check.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly what to do before, during, and after the move to ensure you get settled into your new space with minimal headaches.

8 Weeks Before the Move: The Prep Work Begins

Before the packing tape comes out, it’s time to take stock of what you actually own. This is the moment to be honest with yourself—do you really need that collection of mismatched coffee mugs from every city you’ve ever visited?

Start Decluttering Aggressively: Sort your belongings in keep, donate, or sell piles. If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s time to say goodbye.

Book the Movers: If you’re hiring professionals, get quotes now. If you’re bribing friends with pizza and drinks, secure their commitment before they make other plans.

Measure Everything: There’s nothing worse than realizing your beloved sectional won’t fit through your new doorway. Get measurements of both spaces now.

Stockpile Moving Supplies: Hoard boxes, tape, and bubble wrap like they’re going out of style. You’ll need way more than you think.

4 Weeks Before the Move: The Great Packing Sprint

Packing always starts as an I got this moment and ends in chaos. The trick? Pack smart.

Begin With the Non-Essentials: Think seasonal clothes, books, and decor—basically anything that you won’t need in the next month.

Label Like Your Life Depends on It: Skip the vague “kitchen stuff” label and actually write what’s inside each box. Bonus points for color-coding by room.

Notify the Important People: Your landlord, the post office, your bank, and your internet provider all need a heads-up. Don’t forget about subscription services—you don’t want your new neighbors getting your meal kit deliveries.

Make a “Last Week” Bin: Set aside essentials—think toiletries, chargers, a couple of outfits, and your coffee setup—so you’re not scrambling last-minute.

2 Weeks Before the Move: The Countdown

Things are getting real. Boxes are stacking up, and you’re likely questioning why you own so many shoes. Now is the time to tie up loose ends.

Transfer Utilities: Set up electricity, water, and Wi-Fi in your new place so you’re not moving into a dark, internet-less home.

Handle the Big Stuff: Schedule furniture disassembly, rent a moving truck (if needed), and finalize moving day logistics.

Start Cleaning Out the Fridge: Use up frozen foods and pantry staples—unless you love the idea of transporting a half-empty jar or peanut butter.

Moving Week

The home stretch. This is when you start questioning everything.

Pack the Kitchen Last: It’s the most annoying room to pack, so mentally prepare yourself. Wrap fragile items with dish towels to save space.

Do a Final Walkthrough: Check every closet, cabinet, and drawer. The randomest things always get left behind.

Keep Essentials Accessible: Have snacks, water, and important documents on hand. Trust us, you’ll need them.

The Unpacking Marathon

You did it. You survived. Now, the real fun begins.

Unpack Strategically: Start with your bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Everything else can wait.

Make It Feel Like Home: Light a candle, blast some music, and arrange your space in a way that feels like you.

Give Yourself Grace: You don’t have to unpack everything in one day. Take it slow and enjoy your new space.

Moving isn’t easy, especially when you have a lot of stuff. But with a little planning (and a lot of patience), you’ll be settled into your new home before you know it. And if all else fails—there’s always takeout and a well-deserved nap.