Whether you're moving across Atlanta or relocating to the suburbs — Canton, Woodstock, or Ball Ground — the secret to a stress-free move is starting early. Thirty days out is the sweet spot: far enough ahead to make smart decisions, close enough to keep momentum. Here are the 10 things you should tackle right now.
1. Book Your Moving Company
This is the single most important step and the one most people delay too long. Good moving crews in Atlanta book up fast, especially during peak months (May through September) and at the end of each month when leases turn over. Call at least 30 days out — ideally earlier.
When you call, have your move date, origin address, destination address, and a rough idea of how much you're moving. A reputable mover like Jacey's Moving will give you a straightforward quote with no hidden fees.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
This is the move most people skip — and regret. Every item you don't bring is money saved on truck space, packing supplies, and labor. Go room by room with three boxes: Keep, Donate, Toss.
Not sure where to start? Focus on the garage, attic, and closets first. These are where years of unused items accumulate. If you haven't touched it in 12 months, you probably don't need it in the new place.
"The average Atlanta household moves about 7,500 lbs of stuff — and roughly 30% of it ends up in storage or donated within a year. Declutter now and save that 30% of your moving cost."
3. Gather Packing Supplies
Start collecting boxes early. Hit up local liquor stores, bookstores, and grocery stores for free sturdy boxes. You'll also need:
- Packing tape (more than you think — buy at least 6 rolls)
- Bubble wrap or packing paper for fragile items
- Permanent markers for labeling
- Mattress bags and furniture blankets
- Stretch wrap for protecting upholstered furniture
4. Notify Your Landlord or Close on Your New Home
If you're renting, give your landlord formal written notice by the deadline in your lease — usually 30 to 60 days. Missing this can cost you your security deposit. If you're buying, confirm your closing date and work backward from there to schedule your move.
5. Change Your Address
Start this earlier than you think. Go to USPS.com and submit a change of address form — it takes about 5 minutes and costs $1.10. Then update your address with:
- Your bank and credit card companies
- Your employer (payroll and HR)
- The IRS (Form 8822)
- Your insurance providers
- Any subscriptions (Amazon, magazines, meal kits)
- Georgia DMV for your driver's license
6. Transfer or Set Up Utilities
Contact your utility providers — Georgia Power, Atlanta Gas Light, water/sewer, internet — and schedule the transfer or termination date. Set up service at the new address before move-in day so you're not walking into a dark house.
Pro tip: Schedule your old address disconnect for the day after your move, not the day of. That gives you a buffer if anything runs long.
7. Take Inventory of High-Value Items
Photograph or video-walk every room before packing begins. Document furniture, electronics, art, and anything of sentimental or monetary value. If anything is damaged during the move, this documentation is critical for an insurance claim.
8. Arrange for Kids and Pets on Move Day
Moving day is chaotic. Doors are constantly open, there's heavy equipment being moved, and everyone is stressed. Make arrangements for children and pets to be somewhere else — a neighbor's house, a family member's place, or doggy daycare. It's safer for them and makes the job go faster.
9. Plan Your First Night Box
Pack one box — clearly labeled "OPEN FIRST" — with everything you'll need the first night in the new place. Include:
- Toilet paper, soap, and hand towels
- Phone chargers
- A change of clothes for each person
- Coffee maker and mugs
- Basic snacks or takeout menus
- Bed linens and pillowcases
10. Confirm Everything 48 Hours Before
Call your moving company two days before the move to confirm the time, address, and any special instructions. Confirm parking arrangements at both locations — Atlanta parking can be complicated, especially in neighborhoods like Midtown, Grant Park, or Decatur where street access is tight.
Also do a final walkthrough of your current home so nothing gets left behind.
With these 10 steps handled a month out, move day becomes execution — not improvisation. The crew shows up, the truck gets loaded, and you're in your new place by evening. That's the goal.
If you're moving anywhere in the Atlanta metro or North Georgia — from Buckhead to Ball Ground — contact Jacey's Moving for a free quote. We'll handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on the next chapter.
