A move works best with about three months' lead time. During this time you give notice on your old flat, get quotes, apply for the no-parking zone, pack step by step and register your new address within two weeks of moving in. This moving checklist shows you all tasks in the right order – ready to tick off.
Key facts at a glance
- Tenancy: the statutory notice period for tenants in Germany is three months
- Removal company: book 6 to 8 weeks in advance, earlier for the end of the month
- No-parking zone: apply 2 to 3 weeks in advance – the signs must be up 72 hours before
- Registration: within two weeks of moving in at the citizens' office (Bürgerbüro)
- On moving day: photograph the meter readings and prepare a handover report
3 months before the move: give notice and plan
- Give written notice on your tenancy – it must reach the landlord by the third working day of a month for that month to count
- Set the moving date and request leave
- Get quotes from removal companies – ideally with a survey
- Register the change of nursery or school
- Check the renovation obligations in your tenancy agreement (cosmetic repairs)
- Set a budget – see our overview of moving costs
6 to 8 weeks before: removal company and no-parking zone
- Book the removal company – put the fixed price and services in writing
- Apply for (or order) a no-parking zone at the old and new address
- Declutter: sell, donate or dispose of whatever you won't take
- Book a bulky-waste collection or plan a clearance
- Get moving boxes, tape and padding
- Arrange the flat handover appointment with the landlord
No-parking zone in Düsseldorf: what you need to know
In densely built-up districts such as Pempelfort, Flingern, Oberkassel or Carlstadt, a no-parking zone (Halteverbotszone) is almost always necessary. You apply for it at the road traffic authority of the City of Düsseldorf. Allow two to three weeks. The signs must be put up at least three full days – i.e. 72 hours – before the move, otherwise illegally parked cars cannot be towed at the owner's expense. Many removal companies take care of the application and the signs for you.
4 weeks before: contracts and addresses
- Inform your electricity and gas supplier about the move
- Move your internet and phone line – if your tariff isn't available at the new address, you have a special right of termination
- Set up mail forwarding with Deutsche Post
- Inform your home contents insurance, bank, health insurance and employer
- Update your address for the broadcasting licence fee (Rundfunkbeitrag)
- Inform magazine subscriptions and clubs
2 weeks before: pack properly
- Start with things you rarely need: books, decorations, seasonal clothing.
- Heavy items in small boxes, light items in large ones – no box should weigh more than 20 to 25 kg.
- Label every box with the destination room and contents, mark fragile boxes clearly.
- Attach furniture screws in labelled bags directly to the piece of furniture.
- Arrange care for children and pets on moving day.
1 week before the move
- Defrost the fridge and freezer at least 24 hours in advance
- Pack a "first night box": bedding, towels, chargers, medication, tools, snacks
- Transport important documents, jewellery and cash separately and yourself
- Check the no-parking signs
- Prepare the stairwell and floors – the removal team usually takes care of protection
On moving day
- Read and photograph the electricity, gas and water meters – in the old and new flat
- Go through the schedule and particularly delicate items with the team leader
- Hand over the old flat to the landlord with a handover report and all keys
- Check the new flat for defects and document them
After the move: register and change your address
Under the German Federal Registration Act you must register with the registration office within two weeks of moving in – in Düsseldorf at one of the citizens' offices (Bürgerbüros), usually by appointment. Bring your ID card or passport and the landlord's confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). If you miss the deadline you risk a fine.
- Register your residence at the citizens' office (deadline: two weeks)
- Have the address in your vehicle registration certificate (Part I) changed – you may keep your number plate
- Register your dog for the dog tax of the new municipality
- Update your address with the tax office, insurers, online shops and doctors
- Reclaim the deposit for your old flat
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should you plan a move?
About three months is ideal. That matches the statutory notice period for tenants in Germany and leaves enough time for quotes, the no-parking zone and packing. Book the removal company six to eight weeks in advance.
When do I have to register my new address in Düsseldorf?
Within two weeks of moving in, at a citizens' office (Bürgerbüro) of the City of Düsseldorf. You need your ID and the landlord's confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
Do I need a no-parking zone for my move?
In most districts of Düsseldorf, yes, because free parking spaces in front of the building are rare. The zone shortens the carrying distances and saves time and money. The signs must be up 72 hours in advance.
What goes into the first night box?
Everything you need on the first evening: bedding, towels, toiletries, medication, chargers, tools, light bulbs, toilet paper, drinks and snacks.
Removals in Düsseldorf & the region?
Free advice and a binding fixed price – usually within 24 hours. Service: Removals
