What should happen eight to twelve weeks before the move?
This is the phase for decisions that are difficult to change at short notice. Check tenancy and contract deadlines, set the moving date and decide which work you want to handle yourself.
- Check notice and handover deadlines
- Set budget and contingency
- Compare rental vans or moving companies
- Create a rough inventory
- Coordinate time off and helpers
- Arrange childcare or school where relevant
What belongs four to six weeks before the move?
Energy contracts do not automatically end just because you move out. Cancellation or continuation should be actively clarified. Internet and phone availability, dates and contract conditions should also be checked early.
- Arrange electricity and gas where applicable
- Check internet and phone at the new address
- Apply for parking restrictions according to local rules
- Calculate boxes and packing materials
- Prepare mail forwarding and key address changes
- Pack rarely used items
What is important in the final two weeks?
- 1
Confirm property handover and key appointments in writing.
- 2
Disassemble furniture and clearly assign fittings.
- 3
Check vehicle booking, drivers, licence, deposit and payment method.
- 4
Pack a first-night box, medication and important documents separately.
- 5
Prepare fridges and sensitive equipment according to manufacturer instructions.
- 6
Finalise route, parking and vehicle return.
Which tasks belong on moving day?
| Task | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Photograph condition | Document pre-existing damage, meter readings, fuel level and handover |
| Record meter readings | Allocate consumption and contract end dates clearly |
| Secure the load | Prevent sliding, tipping, rolling and falling |
| Check payload | Load volume does not show permitted weight |
| Keep handover records | Document condition, keys and open points |
| Observe return deadline | Avoid late-return and additional charges |
What needs to be done after moving in?
Anyone moving into a home in Germany must generally register with the local registration authority within two weeks under section 17 of the Federal Registration Act (BMG). Required documents and the exact procedure depend on the municipality.
- Complete address registration and required documents
- Finish remaining address changes
- Document transport damage immediately and check reporting rules
- Review rental and material invoices
- Track deposit releases and final statements
- Reuse, pass on or dispose of boxes correctly
Why does a good checklist need individual tasks?
A move involving children, pets, a car, rented accommodation or a long route adds extra steps. A fixed PDF cannot reflect these differences. The interactive planner shows relevant tasks, calculates due dates from the moving date and lets you add your own items.
Turn the date into tasks
Create your moving timeline
Generate a checklist from your moving date and keep progress on this device.
Relevant help for this step
Outsource tasks when the schedule gets tight
These three services match common phases of a moving checklist. They are optional and do not replace your own planning.
Frequently asked questions
Short and clear answers
When should I start planning a move?+
Eight to twelve weeks is a useful lead time for many moves. Starting earlier can be sensible for popular dates, long distances, moving companies or parking restrictions.
Do I need to deregister at my old address?+
For a move within Germany, the old address is generally dealt with through registration at the new address. If you leave a home and do not take another home in Germany, separate deregistration requirements under section 17 BMG should be checked.
Does my electricity contract end automatically when I move out?+
No. Energy contracts do not automatically end because of a move. Cancellation or continuation must be actively clarified with the provider.
Can I save the checklist as a PDF?+
Yes. In the interactive moving planner you can open the print view and print the personal checklist or save it as a PDF through the browser’s print dialog.
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Transparency
Sources
- Section 17 BMG – Registration and deregistrationFederal Ministry of Justice / Federal Office of JusticeStatutory deadline for registration after moving in and deregistration when leaving Germany
- Cancellation and moving with energy-supply contractsBundesnetzagenturGuidance on special cancellation and continued supply when moving
- What happens to electricity or gas contracts when moving?VerbraucherzentraleConsumer guidance on actively clarifying contracts
- Section 22 StVO – CargoFederal Ministry of Justice / Federal Office of JusticeStatutory requirements for securing cargo
Note: This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal, insurance or professional advice. The cited original sources, vehicle documents, tariff conditions and the specific contract remain authoritative. Editorial standards · Legal notice