Planning
Moving checklist 2026 — complete overview
Updated: July 2026 · VerhuisDesk editorial team · Reading time: 5 min
Short answer: Start 8 weeks before moving day: book a moving company, check notice periods and begin sorting. 4 weeks out: start packing and arrange address changes. On the day: take meter readings and hand over keys. After moving: register at the municipality within 5 days.
What do you need to arrange when moving? Week-by-week checklist
8 weeks before moving
Book a moving company or van — popular dates fill up fast
Confirm moving date with employer and landlord/buyer
Check notice periods: rental contract, internet, energy
Inventory: what goes with you, what do you sell/donate/discard?
Request at least 3 quotes from moving companies
Measure new home: does the furniture fit through the door?
6 weeks before moving
Order or rent moving boxes (10–15 per room)
Get packing materials: tape, bubble wrap, packing paper
Sort items: sell, donate, discard
Apply for parking permit for the moving van (municipality)
Arrange school for children in new neighbourhood
4 weeks before moving
Start packing: seasonal items, books, decorations
Label boxes with room and brief contents
Prepare address change for municipality (DigiD ready?)
Register energy at new home or transfer contract
Order internet at new home (waiting time up to 2 weeks)
Apply for PostNL mail forwarding service
2 weeks before moving
Pack most rooms except bedroom and kitchen
Pack children's room last so they can sleep peacefully
Extra-carefully pack fragile items: crockery, paintings
Notify current GP/dentist and find new ones in new area
Invite friends/family if you need extra moving help
The day before moving
Pack bedroom — sleeping bag or mattress loaded last
Pack kitchen: use disposable cutlery for the last day
Pack essentials bag: medication, chargers, passport, keys
Confirm with moving company: time, address, contact person
Make new home accessible: reserve parking space
Moving day
Take meter readings at old home: electricity, gas, water
Check all rooms: wardrobes, drawers, attic, shed, basement
Hand over keys to new resident or estate agent
Take meter readings at new home on arrival
Unload essentials first: bed, bathroom, kitchen
After moving
Register address change at municipality (legally within 5 days)
Update address with bank, insurer, employer
Submit meter readings to energy supplier
Check DigiD and MijnOverheid show correct address
Meet new neighbours and check parking rules
Return or sell empty moving boxes via Marktplaats
How many moving boxes do you need?
| Home type | Boxes (estimate) | Moving time |
|---|---|---|
| Studio (1 room) | 15–25 | 2–4 hours |
| Apartment 2–3 rooms | 25–40 | 4–6 hours |
| Row house 3–4 rooms | 40–60 | 6–8 hours |
| Large family home 5+ rooms | 60–90 | Full day |
Frequently asked questions
Ready to move? Request free quotes
Compare certified moving companies and save an average of €350.