The Moving-Out Checklist
Everything to do before you hand back the keys — in the right order, so you protect your deposit and nothing gets lost in the move.
6 weeks out
- Confirm your move-out date and give written notice (check your lease for the required notice period)
- Take dated photos of the place now — your "before" record for the deposit
- Decide what moves, what gets donated or sold, and what needs to go somewhere in between
- Book movers or a truck — they fill up fast at month-end
2–4 weeks out
- Order boxes, tape, and labels (or have them delivered)
- Start packing what you don't use daily — off-season clothes, books, decor
- Submit your change of address (USPS, bank, employer, subscriptions)
- Schedule utility transfer or shutoff for move-out day
- If there's a gap between places, line up storage now — before the scramble
1 week out
- Pack a "first night" box (chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes, basic tools)
- Defrost the fridge; empty and clean appliances
- Confirm move time with movers and any elevator or loading-dock booking
Move-out day
- Final walkthrough: closets, cabinets, behind doors, the drawer everyone forgets
- Take dated "after" photos once it’s empty
- Return keys, fobs, and remotes — get it in writing
- Note your final meter readings
After you move
- Confirm your address changes landed; forward any stray mail
- Follow up on your deposit in writing if it’s not back within your state’s deadline