The Complete Moving Checklist for Connecticut Residents

Moving is one of life's biggest undertakings, and it's easy to let things slip through the cracks. Whether you're relocating across Westport, moving from Stamford to Greenwich, or heading out of state entirely, a structured plan keeps the chaos manageable.

This checklist is organized by timeline so you can tackle tasks in the right order. Print it, bookmark it, and check things off as you go — or use our interactive Before / During / After checklist to track progress on your phone or computer.

6-8 Weeks Before Moving Day

The earlier you start, the less stressful the final week will be. This phase is about big-picture decisions and research.

• Get moving estimates. Contact at least two or three moving companies. A reputable mover will offer a free, no-obligation estimate based on a walkthrough or detailed description of your home. Request your free estimate here.
• Set your budget. Factor in moving costs, packing supplies, utility deposits at the new address, and any cleaning or repairs needed at the old place. See our guide to moving costs in Fairfield County for realistic numbers.
• Choose your moving date. Mid-month and mid-week moves are typically easier to book and may cost less. Check out our best time to move in Connecticut guide for more detail.
• Sort and declutter. Go room by room. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need. Less stuff means lower moving costs and a cleaner start.
• Start a moving binder or folder. Keep contracts, estimates, receipts, and important documents together in one place.

4-5 Weeks Before Moving Day

Time to lock in logistics and start the hands-on work.

• Book your movers. Confirm your date and sign the contract. If you're moving during peak season (May–September), booking early is critical.
• Order or request packing materials. You'll need boxes in several sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and wardrobe boxes. Jim Fahey Moving & Storage supplies all packing materials — included with full-service packing or available separately.
• Notify your landlord if you're renting, per your lease terms.
• File a change of address with USPS online at usps.com. Update your address with your bank, insurance providers, subscriptions, and the Connecticut DMV.
• Research your new area. If you're moving to a new CT town, check school enrollment deadlines, parking permits, and trash/recycling schedules.

2-3 Weeks Before Moving Day

Packing starts in earnest. Begin with rooms and items you use least.

• Pack non-essentials first. Guest rooms, seasonal items, books, decor, and anything you won't need in the next two weeks.
• Label every box with the room destination and a brief contents list. This saves enormous time on the other end.
• Photograph electronics setups before disconnecting — TV, router, speakers, desk setups. You'll thank yourself later.
• Schedule utility transfers. Contact Eversource (electricity), your gas provider, water company, and internet/cable provider to set up disconnection and reconnection dates.
• Arrange childcare and pet care for moving day. Kids and pets are safer and happier away from the chaos.
• Confirm or cancel home services — lawn care, cleaning, security monitoring — at both addresses.

1 Week Before Moving Day

The home stretch. Focus on finishing packing and confirming details.

• Confirm with your moving company. Review the schedule, arrival time, and any special instructions (narrow driveway, elevator access, etc.).
• Pack a moving-day essentials bag. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, medications, important documents, snacks, and water. Keep this with you, not on the truck.
• Defrost the freezer if you're moving your refrigerator. Allow 24 hours.
• Use up perishable food. Plan meals around what's in the fridge and pantry.
• Disassemble large furniture if you're handling it yourself, or let your movers know which pieces need disassembly.
• Back up your computer and any important digital files.

Moving Day

The day itself goes faster than you expect. Stay organized and let the movers do their job.

• Do a final walkthrough of every room, closet, attic, basement, and garage before the movers leave.
• Check all utilities are off at the old home (or set to transfer).
• Be available to answer questions. The crew lead will check in about furniture placement, fragile items, and priority boxes.
• Inspect your belongings at delivery. Note any damage on the inventory sheet before signing off.
• Secure the old home. Lock doors and windows, return keys to the landlord or leave them for the new owners.

First Week in Your New Home

• Unpack essentials first — kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms. Everything else can wait.
• Test all utilities — water, electricity, gas, internet, HVAC.
• Update your driver's license and vehicle registration with the Connecticut DMV within 60 days of moving if you're coming from out of state.
• Register to vote in your new municipality.
• Meet your neighbors. A quick introduction goes a long way, especially in close-knit Connecticut communities like Fairfield, Norwalk, and Westport.

Connecticut-Specific Moving Tips

A few things that are unique to moving within or to the Nutmeg State:

• Property tax timing. Connecticut property taxes are paid in two installments (July and January in most towns). If you close on a home mid-cycle, taxes are prorated at closing — but confirm with your attorney.
• Winter moves. If you're moving between November and March, ask your mover about salt and ice management for walkways. Connecticut winters can create slippery conditions on moving day.
• Beach stickers and transfer station permits. Many Fairfield County towns require resident permits for beach access and dump/transfer station use. Apply at town hall as soon as you've closed.
• School enrollment. Connecticut public school enrollment is handled by each town's board of education. Bring proof of residency, immunization records, and prior school transcripts.