Thinking about moving to Highland Park? The details can pile up fast, especially if you are relocating from out of the area. You want a clear plan, firm dates, and trusted local contacts so you can settle in with confidence. This practical checklist gives you a simple timeline, links to key local agencies, and step-by-step tasks so your move day feels calm and organized. Let’s dive in.
Your Highland Park move timeline
45 to 60+ days before move
- Confirm your closing date and possession time with your agent, the seller, and the title company.
- Get written moving estimates and book your mover. Peak seasons fill up quickly. Reserve long-distance moves 4 to 8 weeks in advance.
- Research address-specific service availability for electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, and internet. Set appointment windows now.
- Start homeowners insurance quotes and select a policy to take effect at closing.
- If you need a short-term place, look into extended stays or corporate housing and plan for storage if dates do not align.
30 to 15 days before move
- Schedule your final walkthrough with your agent. Confirm how you will get keys and remotes.
- Set up USPS mail forwarding to start on or near move day. You can do this online through the USPS mail forwarding portal.
- If schools matter to you, confirm enrollment steps with Highland Park ISD and gather documents.
- Request any HOA forms, building move rules, and required inspections from the seller or your agent.
- Request utility transfer or activation. Ask about deposits, ID, and credit check needs.
14 to 3 days before move
- Confirm mover arrival time, truck size, and on-site contact. Get a written, itemized estimate.
- If your truck will park on the street, ask about permits or temporary no parking signs. See Permits and Local Rules below.
- Schedule internet or cable install for the first day after possession, or order a self-install kit if available.
- Gather keys, fobs, gate codes, and garage remotes. Confirm access for HOA gates or guards.
- If using storage, confirm your unit size, access hours, and move-in time.
48 to 24 hours before move
- Finish packing and set aside valuables, documents, and medications to travel with you.
- Share your arrival window and parking plan with movers and neighbors if needed.
- Reconfirm where the truck can park and whether curb or sidewalk protection is required.
Moving day
- Carry closing papers or proof of possession. Some buildings or movers ask to see them.
- Walk the home with the crew and note pre-existing damage. Take photos.
- Turn on and test water, gas, electric, HVAC, and hot water as early as possible.
1 to 30 days after move
- Set up or update utility billing and consider autopay.
- If you moved from out of state, update your driver’s license with the Texas Department of Public Safety and register your vehicle in Texas.
- Meet HOA or neighborhood contacts. Confirm trash, recycling, and yard service schedules.
- Verify property appraisal details with the Dallas Central Appraisal District and confirm escrow setup with your lender.
Permits, parking, and local rules
Highland Park is its own municipality, the Town of Highland Park, with its own police, public works, and service departments. Some nearby addresses fall within the City of Dallas instead. Confirm your property’s jurisdiction before requesting permits or services.
- Town services and rules: Start with the Town of Highland Park for questions about street use, parking, and trash.
- If your address is actually in the City of Dallas, check with the City of Dallas Transportation Department for street or curb permits.
Common items to confirm
- Temporary moving truck or no parking permits: Ask how long a truck can occupy a space, what signs or cones are allowed, and whether enforcement requires a permit on file.
- Sidewalk and curb protection: Ask if dollies are allowed on sidewalks and whether protective boards or blankets are required.
- Ticketing or towing: Coordination with local police or parking enforcement helps avoid citations.
- Building move rules: For condos or apartments, reserve the freight elevator early. Ask for insurance requirements and certificates of insurance.
- Tree and property protection: For large remodels or landscaping, ask the town if any tree protections or permits apply.
Documents to request from the seller or HOA
- Building move-in rules and elevator reservation policies
- Preferred mover list, if available
- Certificate of insurance requirements for movers
- Key, fob, remote, and gate code transfer instructions
Utilities and essential services
Electricity
In the Dallas area, power delivery is by Oncor, and you choose a Retail Electric Provider for your plan. Compare plan options and confirm activation timing.
- Delivery company: Oncor
- Compare providers: The Public Utility Commission’s Power to Choose site lists options. Standard activation can take 1 to 5 business days. Same-day service may be available for a fee.
Natural gas
Atmos Energy serves most of the region. Expect possible deposits for out-of-state or new customers.
- Gas provider: Atmos Energy
Water, sewer, trash
The Town of Highland Park provides water, sewer, and residential trash for properties within the town. If your home is in the City of Dallas, those services come from the city. Verify your jurisdiction before you request service through the town.
- Town resource: Town of Highland Park
Internet, cable, phone
Major providers in the Dallas area include AT&T, Spectrum, and some fiber or fixed wireless companies. Installation slots book fast. Schedule installs 7 to 14 days ahead or order a self-install kit if your wiring supports it.
Mail and address changes
Set mail forwarding to begin on or near move day through the USPS mail forwarding portal. Update banks, subscriptions, and delivery apps directly since some items are not forwarded.
Schools and enrollment
Highland Park Independent School District serves Highland Park and University Park. Enrollment usually requires proof of residency, immunization records, a birth certificate, and parent ID. Review current requirements on the HPISD site.
Taxes and appraisal
Property values and tax details are recorded by the Dallas Central Appraisal District. Ask your lender and title company about tax pro-ration at closing and whether your loan will escrow taxes.
Temporary housing, storage, and move-day logistics
Short-term housing
If your closing and possession dates do not match, consider extended-stay hotels, corporate housing near Uptown or Turtle Creek, or short-term furnished rentals. Ask your agent about early occupancy options if the seller is open to them.
Storage
Reserve climate-controlled storage during peak months if you have a gap between closings. Confirm drive-up access, hours, and elevator or loading access.
Move-day logistics checklist
- Parking: Confirm where the truck can park and whether you need a temporary permit.
- Access: Gather gate codes, HOA guard instructions, and garage remotes.
- Protection: Ask your mover about floor runners, corner guards, and landscape protection.
- Insurance: Basic mover liability is limited. Consider full replacement-value coverage.
Essential documents to keep handy
- Closing documents and proof of possession
- Homeowners insurance policy
- Government-issued IDs for all adults
- Proof of address documents for utilities and schools
- School records and immunization records
- Pet vaccination records and microchip info
- Vehicle titles, registrations, and insurance cards
Who to contact first
- Your title company and your Bray Real Estate Group agent
- Town of Highland Park for permits, water, and trash: Town of Highland Park
- Electric delivery and plan selection: Oncor and Power to Choose
- Natural gas service: Atmos Energy
- Mail forwarding: USPS
- Schools and enrollment: HPISD
- Appraisal and tax info: DCAD
How to vet local vendors
Licensing and insurance
- For interstate movers, verify the company’s USDOT number and safety record with the FMCSA.
- For local trades, ask for state or local licenses and proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation, where applicable.
Written estimates and scope
- Get at least three written, itemized estimates.
- Ask about extra fees for stairs, long carries, storage in transit, overtime, or appliance services.
References and reviews
- Ask for recent references and similar jobs completed in the Park Cities.
- Check multiple sources like neighborhood groups and verified review platforms.
Contracts and payment
- Avoid large cash deposits. Use credit card or a secure payment method.
- Review cancellation and rescheduling terms in case of weather or closing delays.
On-site or virtual surveys
- Request an in-home or virtual survey for accurate moving quotes. Avoid estimates based only on a quick phone call.
Work with a local guide you trust
A smooth Highland Park move starts with clear steps, reliable vendors, and local know-how. If you want help coordinating timelines, lining up utilities, and connecting with vetted movers and contractors, our team is ready to guide you from contract to keys. Reach out to Bray Real Estate Group for a customized relocation plan.
FAQs
Do I need a moving or parking permit in Highland Park?
- Start with the Town of Highland Park for any street or curb use. If your address is in the City of Dallas, contact the City of Dallas Transportation Department.
How do I set up electricity for a Highland Park address?
- Oncor delivers power, and you pick a Retail Electric Provider. Compare plans and schedule activation through the PUCT’s Power to Choose. Standard activation may take 1 to 5 business days.
Who provides natural gas service in the area?
- Atmos Energy is the primary distributor. Be ready to provide ID and possibly a deposit.
How can I enroll my child in Highland Park ISD quickly?
- Check current documents and deadlines on the HPISD site. You will need proof of residency, immunization records, a birth certificate, and parent ID.
Where do I confirm my property’s appraisal and tax details?
- Use the Dallas Central Appraisal District to look up appraisal and tax information. Confirm pro-ration and escrow with your lender and title company.
How do I verify that a moving company is legitimate for a long-distance move?
- Verify the mover’s USDOT number, complaint history, and insurance using the FMCSA. Get a written, itemized estimate before you book.
