Moving Overview

It's really never too soon to begin planning for a move. Comprehensive timetable and checklist is the best strategy to ensure a smooth relocation.

Six Weeks Before

Remove unnecessary items from your attic, basement, storage shed etc.
Use things you can't move, such as frozen foods and cleaning supplies.
Obtain information about your new community.
Secure a floor plan of your new residence and decide what household items you want to keep.
Solicit estimates from at least three moving companies.
Call your homeowners insurance agent to find out to what degree your move is covered.
Arrange to transfer your children’s school records.

Evaluate your possessions inventory. Can you donate anything?
Notify your friends, relatives, professionals, creditors, subscriptions, etc.
Locate high-quality health-care professionals and hospitals in your new location.
Complete a change of address via post-office cards or an online service for the following: Banks; Charge cards; Religious organizations; Doctors/dentist; Income tax bureau/Social Security Administration/union; Insurance broker/lawyer/CPA/ stockbroker; Magazines; Post office; and Schools.
Clean your closets.
Hold a moving/garage sale or donate items to charities.
Choose a mover and make arrangements.
If relocating due to a job, contact your employer to see what costs, if any, they will cover.
Contact insurance companies (auto, homeowner's) to arrange for coverage in your new home.
Start packing!

Make travel plans. Arrange for pet transfer if needed.
Notify your state's Motor Vehicle Bureau of your new address.
Contact your moving company and review arrangements for your move.
Call your water, electricity and gas and trash companies to pay off any and all invoices and set up the transfer date for the new property.
Set up Internet/ Cable provider appointment for the new home.
Pick up dry cleaning and return library books.
Request refunds on unused homeowner's insurance, security deposit with landlord
Start Packing!

Prepare detailed directions and an itinerary with emergency numbers for your moving company.
Take pets to the veterinarian and get copies of their records.
Defrost refrigerators and freezers.
Consider gathering all valuables and giving them to family or friends to hold until the move is completed.
Disconnect all major appliances.
Mover's Survival Kit: Scissors, utility knife, coffee cups, instant coffee/tea or a coffee maker, water and soft drinks, snacks, paper plates, plastic utensils, paper towels, toilet paper, soap, pen, masking and/or duct tape, trash bags, shelf liner, and aspirin or ibuprofen.

Be home to answer any questions your mover may have.
Record all utility meter readings (gas, electric, and water).
Keep your copies of the bill of lading and inventory until your possessions are delivered, the charges are paid, and any claims are settled.