Moving to a New City Checklist (Long-Term Edition)

Written By Kardn Team

Relocating to a new city is more than a change of address, it’s a major life transition. Whether you're moving for work, school, a relationship, or just a fresh start, the process can be overwhelming without a clear plan. This guide walks you through every step, from planning and packing to settling in, with a special focus on long-term relocation needs.

8 Weeks Before the Move

1. Research Your New City

  • Identify neighborhoods that fit your budget and lifestyle

  • Check commute times, crime rates, and access to amenities

  • Understand the climate and seasonal changes

  • Look up driver’s license and car registration requirements if crossing state lines

  • Note any specific pet, parking, or permit regulations for your new area

2. Secure Housing

  • Tour in person or virtually

  • Understand lease terms, deposits, utility responsibilities, and renter’s insurance requirements

  • Get everything in writing and confirm move-in details

3. Budget for the Move

  • Include costs for movers or truck rentals, deposits, new furniture, utility setup, and travel

  • Build a buffer for unexpected expenses

6 Weeks Before the Move

4. Hire Movers or Rent a Truck

  • Compare full-service movers vs. DIY truck rentals (e.g., U-Haul, Penske)

  • Ask about insurance, cancellation policies, and whether they handle long-distance moves

  • If on a budget, consider portable container services (like PODS)

5. Sort, Purge, and Donate

  • Go room-by-room and decide what to:

    • Keep (bring with you)

    • Sell (use Craigslist, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace)

    • Donate (Goodwill, Salvation Army)

    • Toss (recycle or trash)

Less is better. A long-distance move costs more per pound, so be selective.

6. Gather Important Documents

  • Passport, license, birth certificate, Social Security card

  • Medical and vaccination records

  • Insurance policies

  • School records (if applicable)

  • Employment agreements or offer letters

4 Weeks Before the Move

7. Start Packing

  • Begin with non-essentials: off-season clothes, decor, books, extra kitchenware

  • Label boxes clearly by room and content

  • Take photos of electronics before disassembly

  • Create a spreadsheet for valuable items and serial numbers

8. Update Your Address

  • USPS mail forwarding

  • Banks, credit cards, insurance providers

  • Employer and payroll services

  • Subscriptions and shopping sites

9. Set Up Utilities at New Place

  • Internet, water, gas, electricity, trash, and optional services like security systems

  • Schedule service transfers to avoid gaps

2 Weeks Before the Move

10. Pack Long-Term Essentials

Clothing

  • Full wardrobe for all seasons

  • Workwear, casual outfits, gym clothes, sleepwear

  • Outerwear for new city’s climate

  • Multiple pairs of shoes: sneakers, boots, sandals, dress shoes

Personal Essentials

  • Toiletries and grooming kit

  • Medication and first-aid supplies

  • Electronics: laptop, phone, chargers, headphones, power strips

  • Full bedding set: sheets, pillows, comforter

  • Towels and shower curtain

  • Kitchen starter kit: skillet, pot, plates, utensils, cups, cutting board, dish soap

Tools & Utilities

  • Basic tool kit (screwdriver, hammer, measuring tape)

  • Surge protectors and extension cords

  • Small lamp or portable lighting

  • Alexa or Google Home device (if used regularly)

Documents

  • Keep a dedicated folder for all IDs, leases, contracts, and receipts

1 Week Before the Move

11. Shop for Items You’ll Need But May Not Bring

These are commonly bought after the move—either because they're too bulky to transport or easier to find used:

Suggested for Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp:

  • Desk / Office chair / Monitor

  • Couch / Sofa / Coffee table

  • Dining table + chairs

  • Bookshelves

  • TV stand

  • Dresser

  • Bed frame / Mattress (buy new if possible)

  • Microwave or small appliances (if not included)

You can save hundreds buying secondhand. Just inspect carefully and arrange safe pickup.

Moving Day

  • Final walkthrough of old space: check closets, drawers, outlets

  • Confirm movers’ arrival and contact info

  • Take photos of empty apartment for move-out documentation

  • Turn off utilities, take meter readings

  • Keep valuables and essentials box with you

  • Clean as needed or arrange a cleaner

Upon Arrival

12. Settle In Thoughtfully

  • Unpack bed and bathroom first—comfort and hygiene make day one smoother

  • Assemble key furniture and check for damage

  • Take inventory of what’s missing before buying

13. Handle Local Bureaucracy

  • Get a driver’s license and register your vehicle (typically within 30 days)

  • Register to vote

  • Get parking permits if needed

14. Start Building a Social Life

  • Say yes to events, meetups, and community activities

  • Use apps like Kardn to find others looking for genuine friendships or local activities

  • Join a gym, class, church group, or volunteer organization

  • Ask coworkers or neighbors for local recs

Within the First Month

  • Establish a routine: identify your go-to grocery store, pharmacy, coffee shop, and park

  • Get a library card or join a co-working space

  • Reflect on what’s missing and give yourself time to adjust

Moving to a new city long-term is a logistical challenge and an emotional one. But with the right planning—and the right mindset—it becomes an opportunity to start fresh, create new habits, and build the life you actually want.

Kardn Team
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