Moving tips

We recommend that you start a moving file. Print this list out and check off things as they are accomplished. Keep your written estimate, this list and other moving documents together.

One month before your move:

· Prepare an inventory of all your household items. You will need this when you contact movers for estimates

· Call movers for estimates and discuss the costs involved. Reserve your move date.

· Determine other moving expenses and prepare a rough budget.

· Sell or give away anything you don't want.

· Visit your bank and advise them of your moving plans so they can offer recommendations on setting up accounts at a new financial institution where you will be

moving. This will be an immense help in transferring your accounts.

· Notify your doctor and dentist of your move in order to have records and prescriptions transferred.

· If you have pets, arrange for their boarding during your pre-move and for shipping when you move. Contact your veterinarian for your pet' s records , and try to

have all of their shots and treatments done before you move. Call your new county to determine specific requirements for that area.

· If you have children, find out the school they will attend and the records they will need to have transferred.

· Verify requirements for auto licensing.

· Notify insurance companies of your move. Transfer insurance on your house and possessions to insure coverage of your new home.

· Close charge accounts you won't be using in your new community.

· Ask for a transfer of credit bureau files.

· Send change of address to your post office.

· Send change of address cards to friends, magazines and creditors.

· Notify your church or synagogue.

· Cancel local deliveries.

· Contact utilities for disconnection and possible refunds due to you.

Two Weeks

· Empty your safe deposit box.

· Pack items of sentimental value and valuable papers that you are going to take care of yourself.

· Clean out your refrigerator and cabinets. Fix meals that use up food you don't want t o move.

· Have your car (s) serviced for the trip.

· Get a babysitter for when the movers are in your home.

· Plan a furniture layout for the movers, showing where things should be in your new home.

· Make hotel reservations if you are traveling for more than one day or you have to wait for the movers to arrive.

· Start packing anything that the movers won't be packing.

· If your home isn't sold, make maintenance and security arrangements with your real estate agent and also plan for a thorough cleaning of your house, carpets

and draperies.

· Check with your local tax assessors to make sure your tax records are in order.

· If your home will be vacant for some time, arrange for snow removal, lawn care and notify police.