• Get rid of everything you don't need. If you haven't used it in a year, you probably don't need it.
• Fill out a Change of Address form at the Post Office Or go to this link to do it online USPS Online
• Contact movers and arrange for estimates or reserve a rental truck.
• Plan travel arrangements. Make necessary airline, car rental, and hotel reservations.
• Make a list of memberships and either cancel or transfer them.
• Obtain medical and dental records , x-rays and prescriptions. Keep them together to give to your new health care provider.
• Set up a new checking account local to your new home.
• Arrange to transport your pets.
• Start to use up your perishable grocery supplies. They don't travel well.

Two weeks before the move:

• Switch utilities to new address if possible. If not, set up the new account before you cancel the old one.
• You may want to overlap by a day or two to ensure continuous service. Below is a list of the essential utilities:
  • Electric
  • Water
  • Disposal
  • Gas/Propane
  • Telephone
  • Internet Service Provider
• Banking - make sure you have funds where you need them for the move. Keep a buffer for unexpected expenses.
• Make sure your insurance is in place for your new home.
• Contact your insurance company to set up a cancellation date for your previous policy.
• Pre pack what you know you and your family will need short term to get it out of the way before the movers come.
• Send out change of address notification to friends, family and everyone you do business with.
• Get copies of school records for your children. The new school will thank you.

• Organize pets to be out of the way. The move is distressing and they are a nuisance underfoot.
• Defrost your freezer the night before and make sure it is dry before the movers come.
• Keep hot and cold drinks available and organize food in advance.
• Keep important documents, currency and jewelry with you for the move.
• Carry travelers checks for emergency funds.

• Go to the DMV and change the address on your driver's license and your car registration.
• Review your auto insurance. The premium will be effected by where you live.
• Locate hospitals, doctors offices, police and fire stations, schools, and the grocery store near your new home.
• Keep all your receipts for moving related expenses- they are tax deductible.
• Meet the neighbors.