Part 1 - Counting Down
Part 2 - One Month Before
Part 3 - Last Days

Counting Down

It's really never too soon to begin planning for a move, and veteran movers have found that a comprehensive timetable and checklist is the best strategy to ensure a smooth relocation. It's also a great way to involve the entire family in the move and to spread some of the responsibilities to each person, including your children You'll feel a sense of accomplishment as items are checked off. Moreover, as the weeks roll by, your checklist will help ensure that nothing has been overlooked or omitted from your planning, and that alone will go a long way toward relieving some of your anxiety.

Eight Weeks Before

• Contact your mover to make arrangements for moving day.

• Remove items from your attic, basement, storage shed, etc.

• Start to use up things you can't move, such as frozen foods and cleaning supplies.

• Contact the Chamber of Commerce or visitors and tourism bureaus in your new community for information on your new city.

Six Weeks Before

• If you're moving at an employer's request, verify what expenses and responsibilities are theirs and which are yours.

• Contact your accountant for information on what moving expenses may be tax-deductible

• Begin to inventory and evaluate your possessions. What can be sold or donated to a charitable organization? What haven't you used within the last year?

• Make a list of everyone you need to notify about your move: friends, professionals, creditors, subscriptions, etc.

• Obtain a mail subscription to the local paper in your new community to familiarize yourself with local government, community, and social news and activities.

• Locate all auto licensing and registration documents.

• If some of your goods are to be stored, make the necessary arrangements now. (Your moving consultant should be able to help.)

• Contact schools, doctors, dentists, lawyers and accountants and obtain copies of your personal records. Ask for referrals where possible.