Two Months Prior to Moving Day: Confirm moving date Call your insurance agent to see if your move is covered Make an inventory of your possessions Start a file for all your moving-related receipts and papers Clear out the clutter—from attic to basement Donate or sell unnecessary items Order phone book from your “new” hometown Call for estimates from moving companies—ask about insurance coverage Stock up on boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape (unless the moving company is packing your possessions) Six Weeks Prior: Contact schools in your new area Have your children’s school records transferred Gather names of healthcare professionals and centers in your new location Complete a change of address card at the post office for: credit cards banks lawyer, CPA and stockbroker IRS/Social Security Administration friends and relatives magazines other important people or businesses One Month Prior: Contact gas, electric, water, telephone, cable, trash collection and other services for final billing Arrange disconnections at your current home and new connections at your new location Notify your lawn-care company and any others who work regularly on your home Gather important documents—including medical records, car licensing/registration documents, birth certificates, wills, deeds, stock and other financial papers If currently renting, notify landlord and request security deposit Request refunds on unused renter’s or homeowner’s insurance Arrange to close current bank accounts and open them in new locations (if applicable) Contact your homeowner’s insurance company Begin packing—unless your moving company will be doing it for you Two Weeks Prior: Arrange special transport of any pets, plants or delicate items Arrange a babysitter for young children, if necessary Cancel newspaper delivery Notify the Dept. of Motor Vehicles of your new address One Week Prior: Complete errands in your current locale—i.e., returning library books or rental videos, picking up dry cleaning, etc. Drain the gas and oil from any power equipment Arrange for transfer of any prescriptions Have your vehicles serviced Disconnect and defrost the refrigerator and freezer Finish packing Be sure to have cash or traveler’s checks for your move Put together a “First Night/Moving Survival Kit” (details below) Moving Day: Give the movers directions to your new home—along with emergency phone numbers Take one last look around to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything Record all utility meter readings in your current home Stay at your current home until the movers leave At your new home, check for damaged or missing items Relax and enjoy your new home! Your First Night/Moving Survival Kit: Change of clothes Toiletries Flashlight Phone Alarm clock Sheets and towels Scissors Utility knife Masking tape Coffee, coffeemaker and mugs Snacks, bottled water and other beverages Paper plates, napkins and cups Pen and notepad Hand soap and paper towels Local phone book Trash bags Pain reliever