All Your Apartment Moving Questions, Answered

We’ve all been there: you’re ready to move out of your old apartment and into a new one. Whether you’re moving down the street, to another state, or across the country, there are certain things you must do before you’re completely free of your old apartment. Read our checklist below for the answers to all your moving questions.

Do I need to provide a written notice?

If you’re moving out because your lease is ending, you don’t need to give your landlord written notice, you just need to be moved out by the date it officially ends. However, if that’s not the case, then you must give your landlord written notice about your desire to move out, within the time frame between rent payments. Usually, if you have a month to month lease, 30 days notice is sufficient. If you rent weekly, notify the landlord seven days before you plan to move. Check your rental agreement in case it specifies another timeframe.
The best option is to hand deliver the notice to vacate to your landlord. If that’s not possible, send it through certified mail so you’re confident they receive it.
Items your move out notice should include:

• The current date
• The date you intend to move out
• A copy for yourself

How do you plan a move?

There’s no one way to plan your move, but there are a few key steps to take before moving on from your old apartment.

1. Create and follow a moving checklist so you’re as organized as possible. Use this printable moving checklist for guidance.
2. Go through your old stuff; throw away anything that’s in poor condition and donate things that could be reused. You don’t want to spend time and space on items you no longer need, and getting rid of them will help cut down on your moving budget, too.
3. Start boxing up things you won’t need in the immediate future. For example, if it’s summer, start packing up your winter clothes and labeling the boxes. When it gets closer to your move-out date, you can start putting
4. Unless you want to do it all on your own, consider hiring a cleaning service. You have a better chance of getting your security deposit back in full if your apartment is in excellent condition.
5. Call your utility providers and cancel your service. This includes electricity, cable, internet, and other services in your name. You might also need to factor in time to drop-off your internet and cable items.
6. Schedule a final walk-through with your landlord a day or two before move-out. This way, you’ll have a better idea of what else needs to be done to get your full security deposit back.

How much money do you need to move out of state?

This will depend on the specifics of your move, but, generally speaking, moving out of state is more costly than moving within the state. Moving all of your belongings across state lines isn’t as simple as making a few trips to a different neighborhood in your city to drop things off. You might even need to hire professional movers to get the job done for you.
Additionally, you’ll have to take into consideration the cost of living in your new city. If you’re moving from New York City to Atlanta, you’ll probably be in good shape; if you’re moving from Columbus, Ohio to Los Angeles, you might need to start saving a little extra for the move.
Will you be driving or flying to your new state? Are you buying all new furniture when you arrive or are you using what you have? Do you have a job lined up when you arrive? These are all things to think about when deciding how much money you need to save up before your big move out of state.

How far in advance should you change your address?

A change of address can take place almost immediately from the date you request it, if you do it online. You’ll be able to request a change of address (permanent or temporary) and your mail can begin to be forwarded to your new address the next day. You’ll likely want to change your address a few days to a week prior to your move to ensure that you give yourself enough time.

How long is a change of address good for with the post office?

There are two types of change of address: temporary and permanent. Like it suggests, the permanent change of address lasts until you decide to change it again. A temporary change of address is used if you plan on returning to your old address within 6 months. You can extend this to 12 months, but you have to notify the post office.

How much does it cost to do a change of address?

If you fill out the online form, a change of address will only cost $1. This is used as an identity verification fee so the post office can be sure you’re the one requesting the change. Only fill out the online form through the official USPS website. If you walk into the post office and fill out the form in person, it’s free.
If you’ve already found your next apartment, congrats! If you’re still looking, be sure to check out all our apartments for rent and get settled into your new home soon.