Moving is one of life's biggest projects, and the difference between a smooth move and a stressful scramble usually comes down to planning. A good moving checklist keeps you organized, on schedule, and ahead of the details that are easy to forget. This complete moving checklist for Texas residents walks you through everything you need to do, week by week, from eight weeks out all the way to move day. Whether you are moving across San Antonio, across Corpus Christi, or anywhere in Texas, this guide will help you stay on track and stress-free.
At Half Price Movers, we have guided Texas families through thousands of moves since 1979. Here is the checklist we wish everyone had before they started.
8 Weeks Before Your Move
The earlier you start, the smoother everything goes. Two months out is the ideal time to lay the groundwork.
Create a Moving Binder or Folder
Keep everything in one place: quotes, receipts, contracts, checklists, and important documents. A physical folder plus a digital backup works best.
Research and Book Your Movers
The best movers and dates book up fast, especially during peak season (May through August). Get at least three quotes, compare what is included, and verify each company is licensed and insured. You can learn about our full range of services on our services overview page.
Start a Home Inventory
Walk every room and list what you own. Photograph valuables and note serial numbers on electronics. This helps with both the move and any insurance needs.
Begin Decluttering
The less you move, the less you pay. Start sorting items into keep, donate, sell, and toss piles. This is the single best way to lower your moving cost.
6 Weeks Before Your Move
Gather Packing Supplies
Order or buy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, and markers. Specialty boxes for dishes, wardrobes, and TVs are worth the small extra cost.
Sell or Donate Unwanted Items
Host a garage sale, list items online, or schedule donation pickups. In Texas heat, do outdoor sales early in the morning.
Research Your New Neighborhood
If you are moving to a new area, look into schools, utilities, trash pickup schedules, and any HOA rules about moving trucks and parking.
Start Using Up Consumables
Begin working through frozen food, pantry items, and cleaning supplies you cannot easily move.
4 Weeks Before Your Move
Confirm Your Moving Details
Reconfirm your date, crew size, and services with your moving company. If you have questions about what your move includes, our residential moving services page covers the full process.
Start Packing Non-Essentials
Begin with items you rarely use: seasonal decor, books, extra linens, and out-of-season clothing. Label every box by room and contents.
Notify Important Parties
Start your change-of-address list:
- USPS (submit a mail forwarding request)
- Banks and credit card companies
- Insurance providers
- Employer and payroll
- Subscription services
- The DMV (Texas requires you to update your license and registration within a set time after moving)
Arrange Time Off Work
Book your moving day (and ideally the day after) off so you are not rushing.
2 Weeks Before Your Move
Schedule Utility Transfers
Set disconnect dates at your current home and connection dates at your new one:
- Electricity
- Water and sewer
- Gas
- Internet and cable
- Trash and recycling
Texas summers are brutal, so make sure your new home's electricity and AC are active before you arrive.
Confirm Childcare and Pet Care
Moving day is safer and faster when kids and pets are cared for elsewhere. Arrange a sitter or a friend to help.
Service Your Vehicle
If you are driving a long distance, get your car checked before the trip.
Keep Packing
Work through the rest of your non-essentials, leaving only daily necessities for the final week.
1 Week Before Your Move
Pack an Essentials Box
Set aside what you will need for the first 24 to 48 hours in the new home:
- Medications
- Toiletries and towels
- A few changes of clothes
- Phone and device chargers
- Basic tools and box cutter
- Snacks and water
- Important documents
- Paper towels, trash bags, and basic cleaning supplies
Empty and Defrost Appliances
Fridges and freezers need to be emptied, cleaned, and defrosted at least 24 hours before the move. Disconnect washing machine water lines.
Confirm Everything With Your Movers
Reconfirm arrival time, address, access notes, and payment details.
Finish Packing
Aim to have everything but your essentials box packed by the night before.
Move Day
Be Ready When the Crew Arrives
Have everything packed, staged, and labeled. For hourly moves, being ready saves real money.
Do a Walkthrough
Walk the crew through your home, point out fragile or special items, and confirm what is going and what is staying.
Keep Essentials and Documents With You
Your essentials box, important documents, and valuables should travel in your personal vehicle, not the truck.
Do a Final Sweep
Before you leave, check every closet, cabinet, drawer, the attic, the garage, and behind doors. It is easy to leave something behind.
Confirm the Details at Your New Home
When you arrive, direct the crew on where boxes and furniture go, and check items against your inventory as they come off the truck.
After the Move
Unpack Strategically
Start with essentials: beds, bathroom, and kitchen. Then work room by room. There is no need to do it all in one day.
Check for Damage
Inspect your belongings as you unpack and report any issues to your mover promptly.
Update Your Address and Registration
Texas residents should update their driver's license and vehicle registration after a move. Finish any change-of-address items you have not completed.
Meet Your Neighbors and Settle In
Find your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and essentials. Get to know your new area.
Texas-Specific Moving Tips
Moving in Texas comes with a few unique considerations worth planning around.
Plan Around the Heat
From May through September, Texas heat is a real factor. Schedule early-morning moves, stay hydrated, and protect heat-sensitive items like electronics, candles, and wood furniture. The National Weather Service heat safety guidance is a good resource for planning around extreme temperatures.
Watch the Calendar for Hurricane Season
If you are moving to or from a coastal area like Corpus Christi, hurricane season runs June through November. Have a backup plan for weather delays. The Ready.gov hurricane preparedness guide is worth reviewing for coastal moves.
Verify Your Mover Is Texas-Licensed
Texas movers must be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles for in-state moves. Always confirm your mover is licensed and insured. Half Price Movers is fully licensed and insured in Texas.
Know the Distances
Texas is huge. A move from San Antonio to Corpus Christi, El Paso, or Dallas is a long-distance move with different pricing and planning than a local one.
Where Half Price Movers Fits In
Half Price Movers is a family-owned Texas moving company with locations in San Antonio and Corpus Christi. We have been helping families move for over 40 years, and we are fully licensed and insured in Texas. However you plan to move, we can help:
- Local and long-distance moves across Texas
- Full-service, fragile-only, and labor-only options to fit your budget
- Professional packing and unpacking
- Specialty handling for pianos, antiques, and artwork
- Customized moving plans built around your specific timeline
To see the full list of cities and neighborhoods we cover, visit our areas we serve page.
Ready to Make Your Texas Move Simple?
A great move starts with a great plan, and this checklist gives you the roadmap. Start early, declutter often, stay organized, and lean on professionals for the heavy lifting. Whether you are moving across town or across Texas, Half Price Movers is ready to help you do it right.
You can request your free quote online anytime.
Ready to make your move? Half Price Movers has been serving Texas families since 1979. Call (361) 405-6383 (San Antonio) or (361) 937-7615 (Corpus Christi), or get your free quote at halfpricemovers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start planning my move?
Ideally, start about eight weeks before your move date. This gives you time to research movers, declutter, gather supplies, and pack without rushing. During peak season (May through August), booking your movers even earlier is smart.
When should I book my movers in Texas?
Two to four weeks ahead for most moves, and four to six weeks during peak summer season and end-of-month dates, which fill up fastest. Booking early gives you the best date flexibility and rates.
What should go in my essentials box?
Pack medications, toiletries, a few changes of clothes, phone chargers, basic tools, snacks, water, important documents, and basic cleaning supplies. This box travels with you, not on the truck, so you have what you need for the first day or two.
Do I need to update my license and registration after moving in Texas?
Yes. Texas requires residents to update their driver's license and vehicle registration after a move within a set timeframe. Handle this soon after you arrive to stay compliant.
How can I lower my moving cost?
Declutter before you move, pack what you can yourself, be fully ready when the crew arrives, and choose a mid-week or mid-month date when possible. The less you move and the more prepared you are, the lower your cost.
Should I move in the summer in Texas?
You can, but Texas summers are hot. If you move between May and September, schedule an early-morning start, stay hydrated, and protect heat-sensitive items. Off-season moves (fall and winter) tend to be more comfortable and more affordable.
Are Half Price Movers licensed and insured?
Yes. We are fully licensed and insured in Texas, and our credentials can be verified through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. We are happy to provide our license number and certificate of insurance on request.
Do you handle both local and long-distance moves?
Yes. We handle local moves within San Antonio and Corpus Christi, statewide moves across Texas, and interstate relocations. We will build a customized plan that fits your move and your budget.