Moving tips

• 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 if needed.

Moving Day:
Old home:

• Pick up the truck as early as possible if you are moving yourself.
• Make a list of every item and box loaded on the truck.
• Label each box with the contents and the room where you want it to be delivered.
• Let the mover know how to reach you.
• Double-check closets, cupboards, attic, basement and garage for any left-behind items.

New home:

• Be on hand at the new home to answer questions and give instructions to the mover.
• Check off boxes and items as they come off the truck.
• Install new locks.
• Unpack your "first day" box.
• Unpack children's toys and find a safe place for them to play.
• Examine your goods for damage.