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8 Weeks before Moving
Call several movers for estimates. Remember, on site estimates are always more accurate. If you would like a list of movers I would be more than happy to provide you with one.
Be sure to get references from prospective movers.
Calculate possible expenses you will incur when moving to determine if you will need financial assistance. (e.g. pet care, hotel costs, home deposit)
Once you've chosen your mover, discuss costs, packing, timing, and insurance.
Create a "move file" to store important information and collect receipts for moving-related expenses.
Ask the Internal Revenue Service for information about tax deductions on moving expenses and what receipts you'll need to keep.
7 Weeks before Moving
Prepare an inventory of everything you own. Divide this inventory into three separate categories: items to be handled by the mover, items to be handled by yourself, and items to be left behind, sold or donated.
Stock certificates, wills and other one-of-a-kind items (jewelry, photos and home videos) are difficult or impossible to replace. Plan to carry them with you instead of packing them.
Two good ways to rid yourself of items no longer needed: (1) host a garage sale or (2) donate to charitable organizations (ex.- hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers, libraries, thrift shops, salvation army, red cross, etc.) Save the receipts for tax deductions.
Arrange for disposal of items not sold or donated.
Contact your insurance agent to transfer property, fire, auto and medical insurance. Check your homeowners insurance. Any prepaid balance may be applied to your new home. Be sure to coordinate with your carrier so you are covered immediately.
Organize dental and medical records, be sure to include prescriptions, eyeglass specifications and vaccination records.
Inquire about changes that you may occur in your auto licensing and insurance when moving.
Notify your children's school(s). Make arrangement for records to be forwarded to the new school district.
6 Weeks before Moving
Contact any clubs or organizations you are associated with for information on transferring, selling, or ending your memberships.
Start becoming acclimated to your new community. Familiarize yourself with your new shopping districts, location of hospitals, police and fire departments. Contact the Chamber of Commerce or Visitor's Bureau to request information on schools, parks and recreation, community calendars and maps.
5 Weeks before Moving
Start including your children in the process. Make it exciting and fun by having your kids do some of their own packing and labeling.
If you plan to do any part of the packing, start collecting suitable containers and packing materials.
Cancel, schedule ending date, or notify change of address for local deliveries, services, and subscriptions. (ex- paper, lawn maintenance, magazines, publications, etc.)
Ask your present physician(s) and dentist for referrals in the new location. Transfer medical records and get copies of prescriptions. If members of the family have any ongoing medical or dental treatment programs, arrange for the payments to be pro rated with the professional in your new area.
If you have pets, call your new township to determine if there are any specific requirements for pet ownership. In addition, obtain and transfer veterinarian records.
Register your children in their new schools.
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