Updated January 21, 2026
Complete Moving Checklist: Don't Forget Anything
In summary: A complete moving checklist includes over 50 items spread across 8 weeks: contract cancellations, sorting and packing, administrative tasks, moving day preparation, and setting up in your new home. Key milestones are booking the moving company (8 weeks before), official address change (4 weeks), systematic packing (2 weeks), and final checks (moving day). This list ensures a stress-free move with nothing forgotten.
8
8 Weeks Before
Planning Phase
- ✓ Set the moving date
- ✓ Request multiple moving quotes (minimum 3)
- ✓ Compare and book your chosen moving company
- ✓ Start decluttering: donate, sell, discard
- ✓ Create an inventory of items to move
- ✓ Check your current lease notice period
- ✓ Send termination letter to your landlord
- ✓ Order boxes and packing materials
4
4 Weeks Before
Administrative Tasks
- ✓ Complete the address change online (service-public.fr)
- ✓ Notify energy providers (EDF, Engie, etc.)
- ✓ Transfer or cancel internet service
- ✓ Update home insurance
- ✓ Notify your bank of the address change
- ✓ Inform your employer / unemployment office / family benefits
- ✓ Request medical records transfer
- ✓ Register children at the new school
- ✓ Set up mail forwarding (La Poste service)
- ✓ Request parking authorization if needed
2
2 Weeks Before
Packing and Preparation
- ✓ Start packing with the least used rooms
- ✓ Pack decorative items and ornaments
- ✓ Pack books and CDs/DVDs
- ✓ Label each box (room + contents)
- ✓ Keep a numbered inventory of boxes
- ✓ Empty and defrost freezer and refrigerator
- ✓ Confirm the date with the moving company
- ✓ Organize childcare / pet care for moving day
1
1 Week Before
Final Touches
- ✓ Finish packing all rooms
- ✓ Disassemble furniture that requires it
- ✓ Prepare the "first night" box (sheets, toiletries, coffee, chargers)
- ✓ Gather important documents in a separate bag
- ✓ Prepare valuables to transport yourself
- ✓ Plan simple food for moving day
- ✓ Withdraw cash (tips, emergencies)
- ✓ Inform neighbors about the move
D
Moving Day
The Move
- ✓ Read the utility meters (water, electricity, gas)
- ✓ Complete exit inventory with your landlord
- ✓ Check all closets, basement, attic
- ✓ Collect all keys (mailbox, basement, garage)
- ✓ Supervise loading and guide the movers
- ✓ Check furniture condition before departure
- ✓ Do a final walkthrough of the entire property
- ✓ Return keys to the landlord or agency
+
After the Move
Setup and Finalization
- ✓ Complete the entry inventory
- ✓ Read the utility meters at the new property
- ✓ Check that all equipment is working
- ✓ Inspect furniture condition after unloading
- ✓ Set up essential areas (bed, kitchen, bathroom)
- ✓ Unpack the "first night" box
- ✓ Introduce yourself to the neighbors
- ✓ Locate nearby shops and services
Administrative Checklist
Organizations to Notify
Public Services
- ✓ Tax Office (service-public.fr)
- ✓ Social Security / Health Insurance
- ✓ Family Benefits (CAF / MSA)
- ✓ Unemployment Office (if applicable)
- ✓ Pension Fund
Identity Documents
- ✓ Vehicle Registration (ANTS)
- ✓ ID Card / Passport
- ✓ Driver's License
- ✓ Health Insurance Card
- ✓ Electoral Card (Town Hall)
Services and Subscriptions
- ✓ Banks and Financial Institutions
- ✓ Home Insurance
- ✓ Car / Motorcycle Insurance
- ✓ Health Insurance (Mutuelle)
- ✓ Subscriptions (press, streaming, etc.)
Work and Education
- ✓ Employer / HR Department
- ✓ School / College / High School
- ✓ Daycare / Nanny
- ✓ Family Doctor
- ✓ Dentist / Specialists
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing for my move?
Ideally, start 8 weeks before the scheduled date. This gives you time to compare quotes, sort your belongings, complete administrative tasks, and pack calmly without last-minute stress.
What administrative documents do I need to update when moving?
The main documents to update are: vehicle registration, ID card/passport, health insurance card, driver's license, insurance policies (home, car), banks, employer, taxes, family benefits office, and school registrations if applicable.
How do I organize my boxes efficiently?
Number each box and keep an inventory. Indicate the destination room and general contents. Mark 'FRAGILE' in red. Keep a 'first night' box with essentials (sheets, toiletries, coffee, chargers).
What should I do on moving day?
On the day: read the utility meters, complete the exit inventory with your landlord, check that nothing is forgotten (closets, basement, mailbox), collect all keys, and be present to supervise loading and guide the movers.
What are the first things to do when arriving at the new home?
Upon arrival: complete the entry inventory, read the utility meters, check that all equipment works, clean if necessary, set up essential items (bed, kitchen, bathroom), and unpack the first night box.
Simplify Your Move with ADEMART
You have your checklist, let us handle the rest. Gregory and his team take care of your move from A to Z.