Moving Out Checklist: Tips for a Stress-Free Move After Selling 

Selling your home is an exciting milestone, but the process doesn’t end once the contract is signed. With packing, paperwork, and deadlines all happening at once, it helps to have a reliable moving out checklist to keep everything organized. Whether you’re moving across Florida or heading out of state, this guide breaks down what to do after closing so your move feels more manageable.

Step-by-Step Moving Out Checklist After Selling Your Home

Moving out doesn’t have to be complicated after selling your home. With the right plan and a few tips for moving out, you can stay organized, reduce stress, and leave your home in great shape for the new owners.

1. Establish a Moving Date and Timeline

Once your closing date is confirmed, set your moving date as early as possible. This gives you a clear timeline for packing, hiring movers, and arranging services. Having a set date reduces last-minute stress and ensures everything is ready when it’s time to leave.

2. Hire Movers Early or Reserve a Truck

If you’re hiring professionals, book a mover at least a few weeks in advance. For moves within Florida, check that companies are registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). For interstate moves, verify their USDOT number with FMCSA. Early booking secures your preferred date and avoids delays.

3. Gather Packing Supplies and Moving Essentials

Stock up on sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and permanent markers. Create a “first-night” box with toiletries, chargers, pet supplies, and clothes to keep handy. Having the right supplies ready keeps your packing process efficient and organized.

4. Declutter and Safely Dispose of Hazardous Items

Before you start packing, reduce what you need to move by donating, selling, or discarding unwanted items. Hazardous materials such as propane tanks, pool chemicals, paint, and pesticides cannot be moved by professional movers. Florida counties, including Orange, offer Household Hazardous Waste drop-off sites where these items can be safely handled.

5. Submit a USPS Change of Address

To make sure important mail follows you, file a Change of Address with USPS online or at your local post office. First-Class Mail is forwarded for up to 12 months, while periodicals, such as magazines, are forwarded for a shorter time. Completing this step early prevents missed bills, statements, or personal letters.

6. Update Florida Records and Subscriptions

Florida law requires residents to update their driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days of moving (FLHSMV). You should also update voter registration (Florida Division of Elections), notify the IRS with Form 8822, and update your SunPass account. Don’t forget to inform banks, insurers, and subscriptions services of your new address.

7. Finish Repairs and Cleaning

If your contract required specific repairs, complete them before closing and save receipts for the buyer. Even when repairs aren’t listed, sellers are expected to leave the property “broom clean,” which means surfaces wiped, floors swept, and trash removed. This simple effort helps create a smooth handoff.

8. Set Up Utilities and Services in Your New Home

As you move into your next home, arrange to start water, power, internet, and trash services right away. Contacting providers in advance avoids delays and makes unpacking easier. Nothing slows a fresh start like arriving at your new house without electricity or Wi-Fi.

9. Explore Florida Homestead Portability

If you bought another home in Florida, check if you qualify for the Save Our Homes portability program. This allows you to transfer up to three years of property tax savings from your prior home to your new one. Review the Florida Department of Revenue guide and apply with your county property appraiser.

10. Record Meter Readings and Take Photos

Before leaving your sold home for the last time, snap clear photos of the water and electric meters. Take quick shots of the empty rooms as well. These records can help settle any utility billing disputes and serve as proof that the home was left in good condition.

11. Confirm Forwarding and Deliveries

After your move, double-check that USPS mail forwarding is working by looking for a confirmation letter or sending a test item. Update delivery accounts like Amazon, meal kits, and subscription boxes so nothing is accidentally shipped to your old address.