Moving Timeline & Checklist for San Antonio
Moving doesn’t have to be chaotic. This step-by-step San Antonio relocation timeline shows you what to do—and when—so you can stay organized, avoid last-minute surprises, and land smoothly. From choosing movers and utilities to TX-specific tasks (driver’s license, vehicle registration, toll tags), this guide keeps everything in one place.
Every move has moving parts — but relocating to San Antonio comes with its own unique checklist. From navigating Bexar County property taxes and utility providers to understanding how Texas timelines differ from other states, this page is built to save you time and stress. Think of it as your playbook for a smoother move, no matter your starting point.
San Antonio Relocation Checklist
How this Checklist Works:
This page is organized by week-out milestones. If your move is faster, compress the steps; if it’s slower, start earlier. I recommend saving this page and printing the PDF version so you can check items off as you go.
8–12 Weeks Out
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Define budget and target move date.
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Decide: DIY vs. full-service movers vs. hybrid (you pack, pros move).
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Research movers; get 3 written quotes and verify licensing/insurance.
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Start a home wish list (schools, commute, budget, neighborhoods).
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If buying: get pre-approved with a local lender; set your MLS alerts.
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If renting: map your commute zones; shortlist apartments/neighborhoods.
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Begin decluttering room by room; donate/sell what won’t make the move.
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Create a moving binder (contracts, receipts, inventory, serial #s).
6–8 Weeks Out
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Book your mover and send building/HOA elevator or gate instructions.
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Order packing supplies; label by room & priority.
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Confirm school records transfer; request immunization records.
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If buying remotely: schedule virtual tours and set offer strategy.
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Start address master list (banks, subscriptions, employer, insurance).
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Request time off around moving day.
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If you have pets: vet records, microchip update, travel plan.
4–6 Weeks Out
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Start packing non-essentials (seasonal items, décor).
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Measure big furniture; plan floor layouts for the new place.
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Line up utility shut-off at your current home.
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In San Antonio: review power providers (CPS Energy area is municipal; many suburbs use public utilities—note provider ahead of time).
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Schedule home/tenant insurance effective the day before move-in.
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Book vehicle shipper (if needed).
3–4 Weeks Out
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Submit USPS Change of Address (forwarding).
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Update driver’s license address with your current state (if required) so mail forwarding works cleanly.
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Confirm mover COI with both buildings/HOAs if applicable.
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If buying: schedule inspection; review report and repair requests.
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Start a first-week essentials bin (linens, basic cookware, meds, wifi gear).
2 Weeks Out
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Finalize utility start dates in San Antonio (electric, water, trash).
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Arrange internet install window; San Antonio providers vary by area.
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Pack important documents to travel with you (passports, titles, birth certs).
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Refill prescriptions; set up new pharmacy near your SA address.
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Confirm sitter/boarding for pets on moving day.
1 Week Out
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Defrost & clean fridge/freezer (if moving appliances).
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Pack go-bag for each family member (3 days of clothes, toiletries).
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Photograph electronics cable setups for easy re-assembly.
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Set aside high-value inventory list for mover’s bill of lading.
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Confirm elevator/time windows with both locations.
Moving Day
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Walk the home with movers; point out fragile and “do not pack” items.
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Verify inventory sheet before the truck leaves.
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Take final meter readings & photos of the empty home.
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Keep keys, remotes, garage openers in a labeled bag.
Arrival Week (San Antonio)
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Do a quick clean, then unpack bedrooms & bathrooms first.
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Verify all boxes arrived; note issues on delivery paperwork.
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Schedule trash/recycling service days.
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Set up wifi and test cell coverage inside (note best carrier rooms).
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If you have kids, drive the school commute at your real schedule time once.
First 30 Days (Smooth Settling-In)
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Texas driver’s license & vehicle registration: plan your appointments (bring proof of insurance and inspection where required).
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Set up TollTag (TxTag or local toll authority depending on routes).
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Update employer, banking, insurance, voter registration.
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Find your primary care, dentist, vet; transfer records.
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Explore neighborhoods on weekends (you’ll quickly feel “at home”).
Local tip: Spring and winter are allergy seasons here (oak & cedar). A small air purifier in bedrooms makes a big difference.
San Antonio Relocation Timeline & Printable Checklist
Moving to a new city is exciting, but it’s also full of details that can slip through the cracks. That’s why I created this step-by-step San Antonio relocation checklist. It breaks your move into manageable tasks, from what to do 12 weeks out all the way through your first month in your new home. Whether you’re coordinating movers, setting up utilities, or transferring schools, you’ll know exactly what needs to get done and when.
Unlike the generic checklists you’ll find online, this one is designed for San Antonio moves. That means reminders about things like scheduling utility transfers with CPS Energy and SAWS, planning around Texas Hill Country weather, and tips for settling into your new neighborhood quickly. Think of it as your moving game plan — no guesswork, no endless Googling.
Choose the version that works best for you. The printable PDF is perfect for sticking on the fridge, while the online version works great on your phone while you’re on the go.
Plan Your Moving Budget
One of the biggest surprises families face when relocating isn’t the cost of their new home — it’s the hidden costs of moving. From truck rentals and packing supplies to deposits for utilities, these numbers add up quickly. To save you the headache, I’ve put together a budget snapshot for relocating to San Antonio, based on what my clients typically spend.
Moving Company or Truck Rental
$1,200–$3,000 depending on distance
Utility Deposits
$200–$500 (electric, water, internet)
Packing Supplies
$200–$400 (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
Temporary Housing
$1,500+ if you need short-term rent while house hunting
Travel Costs
$300–$800 for gas, food, or flights
Miscellaneous Expenses
$300+ (meals out, unexpected expenses)
Your actual costs will vary depending on whether you’re moving cross-country or just a few hours away, but having a realistic starting point helps you plan with confidence. Pair this with the moving checklist above and you’ll have both the tasks and the numbers mapped out — no surprises when moving day comes.
Ready to Plan Your Move to San Antonio?
Relocating is easier with a local guide. I’ll help you time your move, match neighborhoods with your lifestyle, and coordinate the pieces so you land smoothly.
More San Antonio Relocation Resources
Planning your move to San Antonio? These helpful relocation guides cover everything from choosing the right neighborhood to understanding cost of living, schools, weather, and the full buying process.
Resources & Tools
Moving to San Antonio doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, you just need the right guide. As a San Antonio Relocation Specialist, I’ve helped countless families make a smooth transition into their new homes, neighborhoods, and schools. Whether you’re still exploring suburbs, calculating costs, or ready to start your home search, you’ll find everything you need in these relocation resources. And when you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to help you make San Antonio feel like home.