Moving with your family to or from San Diego? The process can feel overwhelming, but with proper planning, you can ensure a smooth transition. A detailed moving timeline will help you stay on track and reduce last-minute stress.
Use this family-friendly checklist to prepare for your move and keep everyone organized.
Eight Weeks Before the Move
✓ Talk to Your Kids – Explain the move early. Younger kids may struggle with change, so reassure them and help them understand what to expect.
✓ Inform Their School – Notify your children’s school so teachers can help them complete assignments before transferring.
✓ Research New Schools – Check school ratings, social media groups, and parent reviews. Your real estate agent can provide insights.
✓ Visit the New Neighborhood – If possible, take your kids to see their new home and surroundings. Familiarity can make the move feel exciting rather than intimidating.
✓ Book Professional Movers – Secure your moving company early to get the best rates and availability.
✓ Sort Out Legal & Financial Matters – Update your address with banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and government agencies.
✓ Check HOA or Lease Agreements – Verify move-out requirements, including notice periods and security deposit return procedures.
✓ Schedule Home Repairs – If selling your home, arrange for necessary repairs or maintenance to maximize value.
Six Weeks Before the Move
✓ Gather Medical Records – Request copies of your family’s medical records so you can find new healthcare providers. Schools may also require updated vaccination records.
✓ Find a New Doctor – Get at least three recommendations for a family doctor in your new area. If possible, ask your current physician for referrals.
✓ Don’t Forget the Pets! – Request vet records, research new veterinarians, and ensure your pet has all required vaccinations (especially if moving to another state).
✓ Plan a Goodbye Party – Organize a fun farewell gathering for your kids and their friends. This helps create positive memories before the move.
✓ Find Local Activities – Look for family-friendly parks, sports leagues, or entertainment options in your new community.
✓ Notify Utilities & Service Providers – Schedule cancellations or transfers for electricity, gas, water, internet, cable, and trash services.
✓ Start Using Up Perishables – Plan meals around the food in your fridge and pantry to minimize waste before moving day.
✓ Label Boxes Clearly – Consider color-coding boxes by room for easy unpacking.
Four Weeks Before the Move
✓ Create a Packing Plan – Organize belongings by room. Make a checklist to track your progress.
✓ Declutter with Your Kids – Encourage them to sort items into keep, donate, and toss piles. This reduces unnecessary packing and makes the move easier.
✓ Plan for the Road Trip (if applicable) – If you’re moving long-distance, prepare entertainment and activities for your kids to keep them engaged during travel.
✓ Research School Policies – Look into school start times, uniform requirements, and extracurricular activities at their new school.
✓ Exchange Contact Info – Help your kids gather phone numbers and social media details of their current friends so they can stay in touch.
✓ Secure Parking for the Moving Truck – If moving into an apartment or condo, confirm parking and elevator access for moving day.
✓ Make a Moving Binder – Keep important documents like contracts, school records, and receipts in one place for easy access.
✓ Notify Subscription Services – Update delivery addresses for magazines, Amazon, and meal delivery services.
Two Weeks Before the Move
✓ Plan Easy Meals – Moving is exhausting, and you won’t want to cook complicated meals right away. Plan simple dinners or prepare freezer-friendly options.
✓ Make Travel Arrangements for Pets – If traveling by car, get a comfortable crate, toys, and snacks for your pet. If flying, confirm airline pet policies.
✓ Get Everyone Involved in Packing – Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids so they feel included in the process. Even toddlers can help pack small items!
✓ Confirm Moving Day Details – Call your moving company to confirm arrival time and any last-minute instructions.
✓ Arrange Childcare for Moving Day – If possible, find a trusted friend or family member to watch young kids while the movers are working.
✓ Prepare an Emergency Kit – Pack first-aid supplies, prescription medications, extra chargers, and a flashlight for easy access during the move.
One Week Before the Move
✓ Prepare Moving Day Snacks – Pack a cooler with your family’s favorite snacks and plenty of water to keep energy levels up
✓ Pack a First-Night Box – Each family member should have a box with essentials like pajamas, toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes. This saves you from rummaging through packed boxes after a long moving day.
✓ Disassemble Furniture – Take apart beds, bookshelves, and other large items to speed up the moving process.
✓ Protect Valuables – Set aside jewelry, passports, and important documents to transport personally.
✓ Deep Clean Your Home – Clean your current home for the next owner or to meet landlord requirements for security deposit refunds.
Moving Day
✓ Take Photos of Both Homes – Photograph your old home for records and your new home before unpacking to note existing conditions.
✓ Double-Check Every Room – Look in all cabinets, attic spaces, and storage units to ensure nothing is left behind.
✓ Set Up Bedrooms First – After a long day, everyone will appreciate having their beds ready to crash in.
✓ Say Goodbye – Give your kids time to say farewell to their home, neighbors, and friends.
✓ Stay Calm & Enjoy the Adventure – Moving is a big change, but it’s also an exciting new chapter. With careful planning, your family will settle in smoothly!
Bonus Tips: After You Move
✓ Unpack Essentials First – Focus on necessities like kitchen items, toiletries, and kids’ school supplies.
✓ Meet Your Neighbors – Introduce yourself and your family to build connections in your new community.
✓ Register with Local Services – Update your driver’s license, and voter registration, and find local grocery stores and medical offices.
✓ Take a Break & Explore! – Go for a walk, find a new favorite restaurant, and make fun memories in your new neighborhood.
Let Best Fit Movers Make Your Move Stress-Free
Relocating to San Diego? Whether you’re moving across town or the state, let Best Fit Movers handle the heavy lifting and logistics for you. Our experienced team ensures a smooth, hassle-free transition so you can focus on settling into your new home. Contact us today for a free quote, expert moving services, and personalized assistance tailored to your family’s needs.
