Free tools
Change-of-Address Kit
Keep your move on track with a simple change-of-address plan. Use this free kit to make a clean list of who to notify, in what order, so bills, mail, and services follow you to your new home.
Start with the highest-priority notifications
A change of address is not just one form. It is a short checklist that helps you update the most important places first: mail delivery, utilities, bank accounts, insurance, school, work, and any subscriptions.
- Start with the USPS mail-forwarding request so your mail follows you.
- Update power, gas, water, internet, and trash service for both homes.
- Tell your bank, credit card company, employer, benefits office, and insurance providers.
- Update your doctor, pharmacy, school, landlord, and any delivery accounts.
If you want help planning the move itself, get matched with licensed, vetted movers. MoveLantern is a free matching service, not a moving company.
What to put on your change-of-address list
This kit is for general planning, not legal or financial advice. Use it to create a simple list of every place that should have your new address.
Include government mail, banks and credit cards, utility companies, internet service, rental or mortgage records, workplace payroll, school or daycare, doctors and pharmacy, auto insurance, renters or homeowners insurance, and any online shopping or subscription accounts.
If you are moving interstate, remember that movers carrying household goods across state lines must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Before hiring anyone, verify that number yourself and ask for a written estimate.
How to use the kit step by step
Use these steps to stay organized before, during, and after moving day.
- Make one master list of every account, service, and contact tied to your current home.
- Mark each one as "before move," "on move day," or "after move."
- Save account numbers only where needed for your own records; do not share sensitive documents with a mover.
- Keep your move paperwork together: estimates, inventory list, and the bill of lading - the contract and receipt for your move.
- Update addresses as soon as the new home is ready, and keep checking mail for a few weeks.
For a bigger picture of costs, see moving costs. Typical US ranges vary a lot: a local 1-2 bedroom move is often about $400-$1,500, a local 3-4 bedroom move about $1,000-$3,500, and long-distance or interstate moves about $2,000-$8,000+ depending on weight, distance, season, and city.
Understand estimates and avoid common moving scams
A strong plan includes a written estimate from a licensed mover. Here are the plain-English terms:
A binding estimate is a price the mover locks in, in writing, before the move. A non-binding estimate is a good-faith guess that can change. A not-to-exceed or guaranteed-not-to-exceed estimate means the most you will pay, which gives you more protection.
Be careful with red flags: very low prices, large cash deposits, no written estimate, no in-home or video survey, or a mover who will not show a USDOT number. Another warning sign is a "hostage load," where a company holds your belongings until you pay more. Ask for everything in writing and verify the mover's license before you hire.
A small real-life example
One family moving into their first apartment in the US used a simple checklist like this: they set up mail forwarding, moved utilities a week ahead, and asked for written estimates from licensed movers before booking. Because they planned early, they were able to compare local options, choose a mover who explained the bill of lading and valuation clearly, and settle into the new place without last-minute confusion.
If you want a moving company in your area, especially one that can help in another language, see our services. Matching through MoveLantern is always free.
Use this free kit to make one clear checklist of everyone who needs your new address, then update the most important accounts first and keep all mover paperwork in writing.
FAQ
Common questions
Do I need to change my address with every company myself?
Usually, yes. Some mail may forward automatically, but banks, utilities, insurance, work, school, and subscription services usually need a direct update from you.
Is this kit a replacement for the USPS change-of-address request?
No. The USPS request helps forward mail, but you still need to notify important accounts and service providers directly.
What should I ask a mover before I book?
Ask for a written estimate, their USDOT number if the move crosses state lines, and whether the estimate is binding, non-binding, or not-to-exceed. Also ask about valuation, which is the mover's liability coverage and is not the same as insurance.
Can I find movers who speak my language?
Often, yes. MoveLantern can help match you with licensed, vetted movers and support is often available in more than one language, at no cost to you.