Arizona’s fantastic weather, low taxes and competitive job market make it an attractive option for home buyers from places like California and Washington where the cost of living is notoriously high. Whether you are planning an interstate relocation or are just moving across town, use this step-by-step guide to keep things organized and your sanity in check.

Two Months Before

• Sort and purge: Go through each room in your house and decide what you can get rid of. You might want to consider special packing requirements or extra insurance coverage when deciding what to keep.


• Request on-site estimates: Get written estimates from a number of moving companies. Make sure they provide a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.


• Start a moving binder: Keep estimates, receipts and an inventory of your household goods. This is also a good place to put passports and other important documents that you may want to hand carry to your new home.


• Transfer Children’s School Records: Provide school records to the new school district.

Six Weeks Before

• Gather Supplies: Get standard moving boxes, wardrobe boxes, dish packing supplies, tape, bubble wrap and permanent markers.


• Take Measurements: Some pieces of furniture may not fit through your passageways and doors. Make sure you have tools available to disassemble and reassemble entertainment centers, desks, sectional sofas and other large items.

One Month Before

• Get written confirmation from mover – Confirm dates, cost estimates and other details.


• Pack infrequently used items – Document items of special value and declare in writing anything valued over $100 per pound.


• Label contents and destination – Label anything that may be needed right away as “essential.”


• Pack Valuables Separately – Plan to move these items yourself.


• Schedule your change of address – Visit the post office or submit your change at usps.gov. Notify creditors and subscription services directly.


• Medical Considerations – Schedule initial visits and forward medical records to new health care providers. Check with your insurance to confirm in-network status.

Two Weeks Before

• Take your car in for service – If you are making a long-distance move, you’ll want to make sure your car is ready for the trip.


• Empty and close out your safe-deposit box – Plan to secure and move these items yourself.


• Be mindful when grocery shopping – Avoid overstocking perishables if possible.


• One Week Before


• Pack for the trip – Pack suitcases to last until your household goods can be delivered and unpacked.


• Medication – Refill prescriptions and arrange to have them transferred to your new pharmacy.

A Few Days Before

• Defrost the Freezer – If you are moving a freezer or refrigerator, it should be empty, unplugged and cleaned at least 24 hours before moving day.


• Double-check – Reconfirm the mover arrival time, truck size and other details.


• Get cash – If deserved, 10-15% of the total fee up to $100 is a good tip for moving staff.

Moving Day!

Verify Movers – Make sure that the USDOT number on the truck matches the number on your estimate.