Moving Checklist & Timeline

The big-picture planning phase.

• Research neighborhoods and narrow down to 2-3 areas.
• Set your housing budget including taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and utilities.
• If buying, get pre-approved and contact at least two lenders.
• If renting, browse Zillow, Realtor.com, and local property management sites.
• Create a moving binder for quotes, receipts, and checklists.
• Decide whether to hire movers or DIY and get at least three estimates.
• Research moving containers if you need storage or a flexible schedule.
• Start decluttering anything you have not used in a year.

Hiring and scheduling.

• Book your mover or reserve moving trucks or containers.
• Book rental trucks early, especially for summer or month-end moves.
• Gather birth certificates, passports, Social Security cards, medical records, car titles, and lease or mortgage documents.
• Notify your employer of your address change for payroll and tax records.
• Research Florida vehicle registration and driver's license requirements.
• Start collecting boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers.

Address changes and logistics.

• File a USPS change of address at least two weeks before moving day.
• Schedule utility disconnection at your old home.
• Schedule electric, water, sewer, internet, and trash service at your new Sarasota home.
• Transfer or cancel subscriptions and memberships.
• Request medical records and identify a new primary care doctor.
• Request 30-60 days of prescription refills.
• Notify insurance companies of your upcoming move.
• If moving with children, contact the new school district and request records from the old school.

Packing and final details.

• Pack an open-first box with paper goods, soap, chargers, clothes, tools, first aid, snacks, and pet supplies.
• Label every box by room and contents.
• Confirm mover arrival time, truck pickup, flights, and hotels.
• Arrange travel for family and pets.
• Cancel or transfer lawn care, pest control, cleaning, and pool service.
• Photograph valuables and serial numbers for insurance records.
• Update banks and credit cards with your new address.
• If flying to Sarasota, book your flight and rental car or pickup.

Final packing and cleaning.

• Finish packing everything except daily essentials.
• Defrost and clean your refrigerator or freezer if moving it.
• Arrange cleaning of your old home.
• Confirm elevator or reserved parking for moving day if needed.
• Withdraw cash for tips and unexpected expenses.
• Charge devices and backup batteries.
• Set aside your moving day bag with keys, medications, documents, snacks, water, and chargers.

The main event.

• Do a final walkthrough and check every closet, cabinet, and drawer.
• Take photos of empty rooms if renting.
• Lock windows and doors, turn off lights, and set the thermostat appropriately.
• Stay nearby to answer mover questions.
• Collect final mail and check the porch or patio.
• Drive or fly to Sarasota, taking breaks if driving.

Settle in and handle legal requirements.

• Unpack the open-first box and set up beds, bathroom, and kitchen basics.
• Walk through your new home and photograph any damage.
• Verify water, electric, A/C, and internet are working.
• Change your driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.
• Register your vehicles and update Florida insurance.
• Register to vote.
• Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, urgent care, and gas station.
• Introduce yourself to neighbors.

Become a local.

• Apply for homestead exemption if you bought a home. The deadline is March 1 for that tax year.
• Set up trash and recycling pickup reminders.
• Find a primary care doctor, dentist, eye doctor, and any specialists.
• Learn your hurricane evacuation zone.
• Purchase hurricane supplies before a storm forms.
• Locate your nearest hurricane shelter and route.
• Explore parks, libraries, and community centers.
• Join local Facebook or Nextdoor groups.
• Confirm school enrollment and transportation if you have children.
• Find a veterinarian and update your pet's microchip address.

This content is for educational purposes only. Moving timelines vary by individual circumstances. Consult a licensed moving broker or real estate professional for advice specific to your situation.