What documents are necessary for a move?

Moving doesn't just involve packing boxes, but also a number of bureaucratic tasks. To ensure you don't forget any important documents and avoid hassle with authorities or service providers, we've put together a checklist with all the necessary documents for you.

1. Rental agreement & handover protocol

✅ New rental agreement: Before you move, you should have a copy of your new rental agreement so that you have everything documented in writing in case of any queries.
✅ Old rental agreement: If necessary, you should also have the old rental agreement handy – especially if it concerns the notice period or the return of the deposit.
✅ Handover protocol: When moving in and out, note the condition of the apartment with photos to avoid disputes with the landlord.

💡 Tip: If the deposit has not yet been returned, check whether the deadline in the old rental agreement has been met.

2. Change of address at the residents’ registration office

📍 Important documents for re-registration:
✅ Identity card or passport
✅ Confirmation of occupancy (signed by the landlord)
✅ Registration form of the city administration

🚨 Note the deadline: In Germany you have to within 14 days of the move register with the residents’ registration office.

💡 Tip: Book an appointment at the Citizens' Registration Office early, as waiting times are often long in cities like Berlin.

3. Change of address for important offices

✅ Bank & Insurance (Health, liability, household insurance)
✅ Employer & Tax Office
✅ Health insurance & pension insurance
✅ Vehicle registration office (if you own a car)
✅ Telephone & Internet providers
✅ GEZ (re-registration of broadcasting fee, possible online)
✅ School & daycare (if you have children)

💡 Tip: Make a list of all the places where you need to change your address so you don't forget anything.

4. Set up a forwarding order with the post office

✅ Why important? To ensure that no letters or invoices are sent to your old address, it is worth Forwarding order at Deutsche Post.
✅ Duration: You can forward mail for 6, 12 or 24 months furnish.
✅ Cost: From approx. 26.90 € for 12 months (As of 2024).

💡 Tip: Also check subscriptions (e.g. newspapers, magazines) to ensure they are sent to your new address.

5. Re-register your energy supplier & internet provider

✅ Electricity & Gas: New provider or re-register with the old provider?
✅ Water & Heating: Usually arranged through the landlord, but note meter readings!
✅ Internet & Telephone: Apply to the provider for a move early (processing time often takes several weeks).

💡 Tip: If your current Internet provider is not available at the new address, you have a Special right of termination!

6. Update vehicle registration & driver's license

🚗 If you own a car, you must also Address in the registration certificate part I (vehicle registration document) change.

✅ Documents for re-registration:
✔ Identity card
✔ Vehicle registration document & vehicle title
✔ Proof of the new address
✔ If necessary: New car insurance policy

💡 Tip: If you are moving to an environmental zone, check whether you have a green badge need.

7. Tax changes & inform the tax office

✅ If you are moving and have a longer commute to work, you can claim your new travel allowance in your tax return.
✅ If the move is for professional reasons, you can Deduct moving costs from your taxes.

💡 Tip: Collect all bills for the move (moving company, rental car, renovation) to claim them for tax purposes later.

8. Keep important personal documents handy

Important documents can easily get lost during a move. Pack the following documents in a separate folder that's always handy:

📌 Important documents:
✅ Identity card, passport & birth certificates
✅ Health insurance card
✅ Employment contracts & pay slips
✅ Rental agreements & apartment handover protocols
✅ Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
✅ Tax documents

💡 Tip: Before you move digital copies of all important documents and store them securely.

Conclusion: Move stress-free with the right checklist

Moving doesn't just involve transporting furniture, but also a host of organizational tasks. With proper planning and our document checklist, you'll keep track of everything and avoid unnecessary stress.

🚚 Are you looking for a professional moving company in Berlin? Praktik Transport supports you with a reliable service for a worry-free move! Get a quote now! 🏠✨