The Ultimate Moving Checklist for Los Angeles (8 Weeks to Move Day)

Quick answer: Start 8 weeks out. LA-specific items that need the longest lead time: school enrollment records (2+ weeks), building elevator reservations (1–2 weeks), parking permits (5 business days). Everything else follows from there. Best Movers LA handles the parking and building paperwork — you handle the DMV and utilities. Call (213) 676-9460.

8 weeks out

Decide on moving company — get 3 written quotes. Book the date. Notify your landlord in writing if renting (30-day notice for month-to-month, check your lease). Begin decluttering (garage first). Notify employer of new address for payroll and tax documents.

6 weeks out

Request school records from current school (2+ weeks for LAUSD processing). Start LAUSD Choice Enrollment application if changing zones. Notify your child's doctor, dentist and any specialists of upcoming address change for records transfer. Cancel or transfer memberships (gym, library, HOA).

4 weeks out

Order packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap). Begin packing non-essential rooms. Submit a USPS Change of Address (usps.com — $1.10 identity verification). Notify bank, credit cards, and subscription services. Contact LADWP, SoCalGas, and internet provider for transfer/installation dates.

2 weeks out

Confirm moving company date, time, and building requirements. Request COI from mover if needed (buildings typically want 48–72 hours). Book elevator or freight dock if applicable. Reserve parking permits through the city if street parking is required. Pack everything except kitchen essentials, toiletries, and the first-night bag.

Move week

Defrost freezer 24 hours ahead. Disassemble furniture you'll reassemble yourself. Charge all electronics. Photograph all rooms before loading — timestamped photos protect your security deposit. Confirm the crew's arrival window the day before.

Move day

Set up a first-night bag (clothes, chargers, toilet paper, medications, coffee maker) in your personal vehicle before the truck loads. Walk the empty home with the moving foreman after loading. Return keys to landlord and get written confirmation. Photograph the empty home.

After move day

Update California DMV address within 10 days (dmv.ca.gov). Register to vote at new address (registertovote.ca.gov). Update with the IRS (Form 8822 or online). Connect utilities. Find new doctors and dentist if you've changed neighborhoods significantly.

Best Movers LA handles all the moving-day paperwork — permits, COIs, elevator bookings. You focus on the rest of this list. Call (213) 676-9460.