One month before moving

• Start collecting boxes and other packing supplies; and schedule a date with your mover.

• Start packing items that you don't use on a regular basis and dispose or donate unwanted items.

• Make arrangements to transport your pets.

• Take inventory of your personal belongings before they're packed. Take photographs of valuables and recorded serial numbers of electronic equipment.

• Start using up perishable food items so there is less to pack and or possibly spoil.

Two weeks before moving:

• Contact utility providers regarding transfer or initiation of services.

• Inform newspaper and magazine subscriptions of your new address.

• Make arrangements to transfer or terminate telephone and cable service.

• Plan ahead for children, the elderly and those with special needs.

• Collect valuables from safe deposit box and make copies of other important documents.

• Return all library books and movie rentals.

• Pickup dry-cleaning.

• Dispose of flammables, corrosives and poisons.

• If applicable, prepare to have your automobile registration transferred.

One week before moving:

• Finish packing and prepare a box of essentials.

• Drain the gas and oil from your lawn mower and other motors that you'll be transporting.

• Gas grill and kerosene heaters need to be emptied.

• Notify friends and family of your new address and telephone number.

• File a change of address form with the post office.

Moving day

• Double check closets, storage shelves, attic and garage to be sure everything is empty.

• Keep important documents with you including currency and jewelry with you.

• Take your plants with you or gift them to a neighbor.

•  Make the beds before unpacking anything else (you will be glad you did!)

•  Pickup some basic groceries for the fridge in the new house


After the move:

• Keep all receipts and documentation of your move in your moving file.

• Register to vote in your new location.

• Contact the local newspaper for a new subscription.

• Revise legal papers, and your will to reflect your new address.

• Familiarize yourself with local hospitals, police station and fire stations.

Packing tips

• Use strong boxes that can be secured tightly; purchase special boxes for dishes.

• Keep handy marking pen, bubble wrap, and wrapping tissue, tape and scissors.

• Place cables and screws place in a plastic bag and tape them to the object they are removed from.

• Avoid loading more than 50 pounds into one box; label each box, with a room destination and an indicate of fragile contents with a marker.

• Pack books tightly on end in small boxes.

• Have pet food available.

• Have a supply of paper plates, paper towels, toilet paper, disposable cups and drinks and snacks easily accessible.

• Pack a box that includes towels, bed linens, soap and toiletries, to be opened first at the new destination.