Skip to content
Seattle Moving ProsGet a Free Quote

The Seattle moving checklist

Seattle adds a few chores to the standard moving list — utility accounts split across two city agencies, curb permits in permit-zone neighborhoods, and building reservations that can't wait until move week. Work through this in order and moving day becomes the easy part.

4–6 weeks out

  • Submit a quote request and line up two or three providers to compare
  • Give written notice to your landlord per your lease terms if renting
  • Reserve your building's freight elevator or move window at BOTH addresses
  • Ask both buildings for their COI requirements and forward them to your chosen mover
  • Lock in your mover — summer and month-end dates in Seattle go earliest
  • Start decluttering so you're not paying hourly to move things you'll discard

2–3 weeks out

  • Set up Seattle City Light stop/start service for electricity at both addresses
  • Set up Seattle Public Utilities for water, sewer, and garbage service dates
  • If either street is in an RPZ or has tight parking, arrange a temporary no-parking permit for the truck
  • Schedule internet installation at the new place — installer wait times can run weeks
  • File USPS mail forwarding online with your move date
  • Pack low-use rooms first and label every box with its destination room

Move week

  • Reconfirm date, arrival window, crew size, and both addresses with your mover
  • Verify your elevator reservation and COI are on file with building management
  • Post or stage your curb-space reservation so the truck has a spot at the door
  • Pack a first-night box: medications, chargers, toiletries, basic kitchen, work laptop
  • Empty and defrost the fridge and freezer at least a day ahead
  • Photograph your cable and electronics setups before disconnecting them

Moving day & the week after

  • Walk the crew through both places and point out fragile or high-value items
  • Do a last sweep of closets, the dishwasher, storage units, and bike rooms
  • Update your Washington driver's license address online through the DOL
  • Update voter registration, banking, insurance, and employer records
  • If you moved into an RPZ neighborhood, apply for your own residential parking permit
  • Confirm your old building's move-out inspection so your deposit isn't held hostage

First item on the list: know your options.

Compare Moving Options