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Moving to Tennessee Checklist

Moving to Tennessee is an exciting decision, but a successful relocation starts with the right plan. Whether you’re moving from another state or relocating within Tennessee, this complete moving checklist will help you stay organized, reduce stress, and avoid costly mistakes. Use this Tennessee moving checklist to prepare before, during, and after your move.

Research Tennessee Cities & Regions

Tennessee offers a wide range of lifestyles, from fast-growing cities to quiet mountain towns.
  • Compare major cities like Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Memphis, and Johnson City
  • Research cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle fit
  • Decide whether you want urban, suburban, or rural living
Explore Tennessee Cities

Decide Whether to Rent or Buy

Many people moving to Tennessee choose to rent first while learning the area.
  • Compare rental prices vs home prices
  • Consider job stability and relocation timeline
  • Factor in market conditions and interest rates
Browse Homes for Sale in Tennessee
Browse Rentals in Tennessee

Set a Moving Budget

Moving company or truck rental

Security deposits or down payment

First month’s rent or closing costs

Utility setup fees

Temporary housing if needed

60 Days Before Moving

Secure Housing

  • Apply for rentals or make an offer on a home
  • Schedule inspections or walkthroughs
  • Review lease terms or purchase contracts carefully

Hire a Moving Company

  • Get multiple quotes
  • Verify licensing and insurance
  • Confirm move dates in writing

Notify Employers & Schools

  • Coordinate start dates or remote work schedules
  • Request school records and transfers
  • Research Tennessee school districts if moving with children

30 Days Before Moving

Change Your Address

  • Submit USPS address change
  • Update banks, credit cards, subscriptions
  • Notify insurance providers

Transfer Utilities & Services

Set up or transfer:
  • Electricity
  • Water
  • Gas
  • Internet
  • Trash service

Begin Packing Strategically

  • Declutter before packing
  • Label boxes by room
  • Separate essentials for first week
Working with a local Knoxville realtor helps you:

2 Weeks Before Moving

Confirm Final Details

  • Reconfirm moving company date and time
  • Review lease or closing paperwork
  • Schedule final walkthroughs

Prepare Important Documents

  • Driver’s license
  • Social Security card
  • Birth certificates
  • Medical and school records
  • Insurance documents

Moving Week

Pack an Essentials Box

Keep these items with you during the move for easy access:
  • Toiletries and personal hygiene items
  • Phone charers and power banks
  • Medications and prescriptions
  • Important paperwork and documents
  • Basic kitchen items (coffee maker, utensils, paper towels)
  • A change of clothes for each family member
  • Cleaning supplies and trash bag
  • Inspect Your New Home

Inspect Your New Home

Before unloading, do a quick walkthrough:
  • Take photos of the home's condition
  • Confirm all utilities are active (electric, water, gas, internet)
  • Test locks, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide alarms
  • Check appliances are working properly
  • Locate circuit breakers and water shut-off valves
  • Day-Of Moving Tips (Recommended Add-On)
  • Confirm movers' arrival time and contact information
  • Protect floors and doorways during move-in
  • Keep pets and children in a safe, quiet area
  • Do a final walk-throu$l of your old home
  • Secure valuables and important documents

After You Arrive in Tennessee

Update Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration

Tennessee requires new residents to:
  • Get a Tennessee driver’s license
  • Register vehicles and update plates
Visit a local Tennessee DMV within the required timeframe.

Register to Vote

  • Update voter registration with your new address

Get Familiar With Your Area

  • Locate grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals
  • Explore parks, restaurants, and neighborhoods
  • Meet neighbors and join local groups

Ongoing Tasks After Your Move

  • Update healthcare providers
  • Transfer prescriptions
  • Review local tax considerations
  • Evaluate long-term housing plans

Helpful Moving Tips for Tennessee

  • Tennessee has no state income tax
  • Weather varies by region — research local climate
  • Traffic and commute times vary widely by city
  • Housing demand differs significantly by market

Want a Printable Checklist?

Download our Tennessee Moving Checklist PDF and keep everything organized in one place.
Download the Tennessee Relocation Guide

Start Your Tennessee Search

Ready to take the next step?
Compare Tennessee Cities
Explore Tennessee Rentals
Browse Homes for Sale in Tennessee

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