Guide My Move
Timeline Planner
A visual 8-week countdown with the right tasks at the right time — so you're never scrambling at the last minute.
- Set your moving dateMust do
- Create a moving budgetMust do
- Research and request 3+ moving quotesMust do
- Begin decluttering room by roomImportant
- Notify landlord or list home for saleImportant
- Check building requirements (elevator, COI)Important
- Book your moving company — get written estimateMust do
- Reserve elevator or parking permit if neededMust do
- Notify children's school, request records transferImportant
- Order packing suppliesImportant
- Start collecting free boxesNice to do
- Research schools and services in new areaNice to do
- File USPS change of addressMust do
- Notify bank, credit cards, financial institutionsMust do
- Schedule utility disconnection at current homeMust do
- Schedule utility connection at new homeMust do
- Transfer prescriptions to new pharmacyImportant
- Update insurance providersImportant
- Arrange internet and cable at new addressImportant
- Pack guest rooms, storage areas, seasonal itemsMust do
- Label every box: room + contents + FRAGILEMust do
- Confirm moving date and arrival window with moverMust do
- Photograph electronics setups before disconnectingImportant
- Arrange childcare or pet care for moving dayImportant
- Return borrowed items, library books, rentalsNice to do
- Pack almost everything — leave out daily essentialsMust do
- Assemble your essentials boxMust do
- Defrost freezer, use up perishable foodImportant
- Confirm payment method with moverImportant
- Get cash for tips ($20–$50 per mover)Important
- Charge all devices and battery packsNice to do
- Be present when movers arrive — do a walkthroughMust do
- Keep essentials box and valuables with youMust do
- Check every room before the truck leavesMust do
- Take photos of old home's conditionImportant
- Hand over keys, garage openers, mailbox keysMust do
- Direct movers at new home — room by roomImportant
- Do a final walkthrough before signing offMust do
- Update NJ driver's license address (required within 1 week)Must do
- Locate circuit breaker, water shut-off, gas shut-offMust do
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectorsMust do
- Change the locks if rentingImportant
- Register to vote at new addressImportant
- Introduce yourself to neighborsNice to do
Timeline Tips for NJ Moves
Book early in summer
May–September is peak moving season in NJ. The best crews book up 4–6 weeks in advance. Start your search at 8 weeks out.
Elevator reservations first
If you're moving into or out of a building in Hoboken, Jersey City, or Newark, secure your elevator reservation before booking your mover — the elevator slot drives your schedule.
DMV update is time-sensitive
New Jersey requires you to update your driver's license address within 1 week of moving. Schedule your DMV appointment early — they fill up fast.
Utilities need lead time
PSE&G and other NJ utilities often need 1–2 weeks notice for new service connections. Don't wait until the last minute or you may move into a home without power.
Your Timeline Is Set — Now Book Your Team
One Circle Moving serves Newark, Jersey City, Hoboken, and communities across Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. Get a free quote today.
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