A Handy Guide for When You Move

     Following these tips can take confusion out of the journey to your new home – whether it’s down the block or across the country.


6 WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE:
• List the things you want to move, throw out or give away. Be strict; the fewer items to move the easier the job.

• Notify the post office. Request their special kit designed to insure that your mail won’t be interrupted.

• Request medical, dental, and academic records. Make sure you have them all well in advance of the move.

• Choose a moving company. Ask for references from former customers.

• Talk to friends or relatives who have moved recently – learn from their mistakes.

• Plan the move. What items should be given special attention? How long will the move take? Who can help?

• Try to anticipate problems. Will the move take place around a holiday? Could highway construction delay your plans? Could weather pose a serious threat?

3 WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE:
• Call the power company and phone company – arrange for any services you will need at the new house.

• Confirm departure and arrival dates with everyone concerned; mover, realtor, relatives.

• Start to pack. Begin with valuable, rarely used items.

• Make sure all boxes are labeled.

• Involve your children in the move. Bring them in on planning sessions and have them help with packing.

• Determine what special items you’ve added to the house that should be moved; lighting fixtures, security system, etc.

• Do a thorough cleaning of the house.

2 WEEKS BEFORE YOU MOVE:
• Transfer bank accounts to your new area. Notify credit card and insurance companies and complete any forms required, so coverage will continue.

• Confirm dates and details of new phone and electric service.

• Mail change of address cards.

• Return anything you may have borrowed; ask for important items back by a certain date.

• Review arrival date and time with people from whom you are buying your new house.

• Make sure any repairs, changes or additions agreed to for the new house are on schedule.

• Review your progress in packing. Make a list of items to be packed at the last minute.

1 WEEK BEFORE MOVING:
• Defrost refrigerator and dry thoroughly to avoid mildew.