Moving checklist: tasks week by week
A move goes best when the tasks are spread over several weeks. This list runs in order from giving notice to handing over the keys. You can print the page and tick off what you've done.
4–6 weeks before the move
- Give notice on your tenancy. In Finland a tenant's notice period is usually one calendar month, counted from the last day of the month in which notice is given. Check your own contract.
- Ask moving companies for quotes. The days around the turn of the month and weekends are booked first.
- Declutter: sell, give away and recycle what you don't want to carry to your new home. Every piece of furniture you get rid of makes the move shorter.
- Get moving boxes and packing supplies.
- Find out about the lift, parking and carrying distance at your new home.
2–3 weeks before
- Make an electricity contract for your new address starting on moving day, and cancel the old one.
- Move your internet connection or order a new one. Moving it can take time, so do it early.
- Update your home insurance to the new address and check whether it covers your belongings during the move.
- Start packing things you rarely use: books, seasonal clothes, ornaments.
- Tell your housing company or property manager about the move and book the lift if your building has a practice for that.
1 week before
- Register your change of address. You can do it at the earliest one month before the move and at the latest within one week of moving.
- Pack everything else except the things you need every day.
- Take large furniture apart and keep the screws and small parts in labelled bags.
- Confirm the time, addresses and contact person with the moving company.
- Eat your way through the freezer and defrost it by the day before the move at the latest.
On moving day
- Pack a separate "first night box": bed linen, toothbrushes, phone chargers, medicines, tools and a little food.
- Be there to guide the movers and tell them which things go in which room.
- Walk through the empty home, cupboards, storage and balcony before the van leaves.
- Write down the water and electricity meter readings if the home has its own meters.
After the move
- Do the final clean in your old home and hand over the keys as agreed.
- Check your belongings and report any damage to the moving company as soon as possible, preferably in writing and with photos.
- Update your address with those the change of address doesn't reach, such as your employer, clubs and online shop accounts.
Frequently asked questions
When do I need to register my change of address?
You can register your change of address at the earliest one month before the move, and you must do it within one week of moving.
What does the change of address update?
The change of address updates your address in the Population Information System, from where it is passed on to, for example, the Tax Administration and Kela. A notification made through Posti can also forward your post to the new address.
How early should I book a moving company?
At least two to three weeks in advance. For the turn of the month and summer weekends, ask for quotes even earlier.
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