Print out this
comprehensive checklist of tasks to follow when you make your
move. As you finish one of the tasks, check it off.
Reserve a rental truck
-- Make sure you reserve your truck four weeks in advance to
ensure availability.
Change your address --
One week before your move, send change-of-address cards to
everyone who will need to contact you at your new address. Some
organizations have toll-free 800 numbers, so you can make
changes over the phone.
Pick up laundry --
Laundry tickets are easy to misplace, so ask for your things by
name and not just by the receipts you have.
Cancel membership fees
-- Some clubs and organizations may offer partial refunds or
allow you to sell unused portions of your membership. Ask about
their policies.
Have a garage sale --
It's a good opportunity to make extra money. Remember to check
with local authorities about restrictions.
Get your new home ready
-- Contact painters, carpenters, plumbers, roofers etc., so your
home is ready when you arrive. Remember to change the locks on
all the doors in your new home.
Measure for moving access
-- Measure doorways, hallways, elevators and stairwells in your
new home to make sure you have enough clearance.
Return library books
-- Go through your home and make sure library books are not
mixed in with the books you will be packing.
Notify services and
utilities -- Tell your current suppliers - including trash
collection, newspaper delivery, and telephone, water and power
companies - when to discontinue services. If you have "last
month" deposits with services, such as the telephone
company, request your refund.
Collect your important
records -- Gather personal and family records, including
medical and dental, veterinary and school records; legal and
financial documents; birth certificates, passports and insurance
documents.
Make motel reservations
-- If you plan to stay overnight along the way, reserve your
motel two weeks in advance.
Get your car serviced --
If you're moving from a warm climate to a cold one, check your
antifreeze.
Close bank accounts --
Keep enough cash to tide you over until you are settled into
your new home. If possible, have your current bank transfer
funds to your new bank.
Transfer prescriptions
-- Ask your doctor for assistance.
