Moving Tips
Six to eight weeks before:
  • Use up things that may be difficult to move, such as frozen food.
  • Get estimates from professional movers or truck rental companies if you are moving yourself.
  • Once you've selected a mover, discuss insurance, packing, loading and delivery and the claims procedure.
  • Sort through your possessions. Decide what you want to keep, what you want to sell and what you wish to donate to charity.
  • Record serial numbers on electronic equipment and take photos of or videotape all your belongings.
  • Obtain a change of address packet from the post office and send to creditors, magazine subscriptions and catalog vendors.
  • Discuss tax-deductible moving expenses with your accountant and begin keeping accurate records.
  • If you're moving to a new community, contact the Chamber of Commerce and school district and request information about services.
  • Make reservations with airlines, hotels and car rental agencies, if needed.
Two to four weeks before:
  • If you are moving yourself, use your inventory list to determine how many boxes you will need.
  • Begin packing non-essential items.
  • Arrange for storage, if needed.
  • If you have items you don't want to pack and move, hold a yard sale.
  • Get car license, registration and insurance in order.
  • Transfer your bank accounts to new branch locations. Cancel any direct deposit or automatic payments from your accounts.
  • Make special arrangements to move pets and consult your veterinarian about ways to make travel comfortable for them.
  • Have your car checked and serviced for the trip.
  • Collect items from safe-deposit box.
One week before:
  • Talk to your pharmacist about transferring important medical prescriptions.
  • Arrange for a baby sitter on moving day.
  • Return library books and videotapes.
Two to three days prior:
  • Defrost your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Have movers pack your belongings.
  • Arrange to have payment ready for moving company.
  • Set aside legal documents and valuables that you do not want packed.
  • Pack clothing and toiletries, along with extra clothes in case the moving company is delayed.
  • Give your travel itinerary to a close friend or relative so they can reach you as needed.