How to stay organized during a move isn’t about perfection. It’s about having a clear plan when everything feels chaotic.

The week leading up to a move is rarely calm. Between logistics, last-minute packing, and emotional stress, it is easy for even the most prepared person to feel overwhelmed. With the right day-by-day strategy, though, it is possible to stay organized and productive.
Moving Week Checklist: How to Stay Organized and Stress-Free
The days before a move can feel like a whirlwind of checklists, boxes, and forgotten tasks.
This guide on how to stay organized during a move offers a daily plan to help you stay on top of everything. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, staying focused each day can make a huge difference.
Start the Week with a Full Assessment
The best way to begin the final stretch before moving is with a detailed review of what is left to do. This includes checking that utility transfers are scheduled, forwarding addresses are updated, and that boxes are clearly labeled.
Set aside time to confirm appointment times with movers and to revisit any timelines you’ve created. A clear view of the days ahead makes prioritizing much easier.
Midweek is for Packing Essentials and Creating Access
By midweek, most non-essential items should already be boxed and sealed. At this point, focus on identifying what you will need access to over the next several days and immediately after the move.

This includes clothing, toiletries, documents, electronics, and items for young children. Keeping these things in a separate, clearly marked bin or suitcase saves frustration later.
As rooms are cleared, resist the urge to leave boxes scattered across walkways. Create a designated area near the front of the house or garage for packed items. This keeps your space functional and safer for little ones who are still moving through the house.
Schedule Time for Cleaning and Repairs
Late in the week, your schedule should include time for light cleaning and last-minute home maintenance. Many leases or sale agreements require that a property be in reasonable condition before turnover. It helps to focus on one room at a time.
Cleaning as you go also allows you to keep packing momentum and frees you from needing a full day for deep cleaning at the end.
The Day Before the Move Needs Boundaries
The last 24 hours before the moving truck arrives can feel like a race against the clock. To avoid chaos, limit yourself to packing only final-use items like bedding or the last kitchen tools you used for breakfast.

Avoid starting any new tasks that are not essential. Instead, spend time checking each room for anything overlooked and taking photos of the current condition of your space.
Move Day Should Start with a Checklist
Having a printed or digital list in hand makes a difference. You will want to include everything from confirming mover arrival times to checking closets one last time. Leave your phone charger and keys in a place where they will not be packed by mistake.
If you are working with professionals, like cross country moving companies, keep their contact information easily accessible in case you need to coordinate arrival times or ask questions.
Staying organized during a move does not require perfection. It does require consistency, focus, and realistic daily goals. With a structured plan and room for flexibility, your move can be a lot less stressful for you and your family. For more information, check out the accompanying resource below.
Daily Moving Plan: How to Stay Organized the Week of a Move
The key to how to stay organized during a move is to stay realistic. Focus on daily goals instead of trying to do everything at once.
Use this daily strategy to maintain control over your schedule, your space, and your sanity. With a bit of preparation and a flexible plan, your moving week can go smoothly—for the whole family.

Jessi is the creative mind behind The Coffee Mom, a popular blog that combines parenting advice, travel tips, and a love for all things Disney. As a trusted Disney influencer and passionate storyteller, Jessi’s authentic insights and relatable content resonate with readers worldwide.