• Make an inventory of everything to be moved.
• Plan a garage sale or charity donation of everything not to be moved.
• Get estimates from several moving companies and select your mover.
• Be sure to arrange for the exact form of payment at the destination with your mover.
• Start packing NOW.
• Contact your insurance agent to transfer or cancel coverage.
• Check with your employer to find out what moving expenses they will pay.

• Notify all magazine subscriptions and credit card companies of your change in address.
• Get records of your pet's medical history and immunizations from your veterinarian.
• Contact utility companies for refunds of your deposit and set turn-off dates.
• Service power mowers, snowmobiles, etc. Drain all gas/oil to prevent a fire in the moving van.
• Check with your doctors and dentist for all family records and prescriptions.
• Get your children's school records.
• Prevent loss of your valuables during the move by moving them to a safe deposit box now.
• Give away or arrange for transportation of houseplants (most moving companies will not move plants, especially in winter).

• Transfer or close your checking and savings accounts.
• Have your automobile(s) serviced for moving.
• Fill out postoffice change of address forms and give to the postmaster.
• Empty out freezer and plan use of foods.
• Defrost the freezer and clean refrigerator, using baking soda or charcoal to dispel odor.
• Arrange for sufficient cash or traveler checks to cover moving expenses.
• Set aside manuals and instructions on the home you are leaving for the new buyer.
• Remember arrangements for television, antenna and/or satellite dish.
• Clean rugs and clothing before moving.
• Separate cartons and luggage you need for personal/family travel.
• Organize at least one room in the house for packers and movers to work freely.
• Plan for special needs of children and pets.
• Arrange to have utilities turned on at new address.
• Don't forget to remove valuables from the safe deposit box before moving day so they aren't left behind.

• Plan to spend the entire day at the house. Don't leave until the movers are gone.
• Carry jewelry and valuable documents yourself, or use registered mail.
• Stay with the moving van driver to oversee the inventory.
• Be sure to tell packers and/or drivers about fragile or precious items.
• Take a final tour of the entire house (basement, attic, garage, and every room). Double check closets, drawers and shelves to be sure they are empty.
• Approve and sign the Bill of Lading. If possible accompany driver to the weigh station.
• Double check with the driver to make certain moving company records show the correct delivery address and date of delivery. Give driver phone numbers both here and in new community to contact you in case of a problem.
• Get complete routing information from the driver and phone numbers where you can call the driver or company while en route.
• Disconnect all utilities and advise the realtor who sold or is selling your house.
• Lock all the doors and windows. Advise your realtor and neighbors that the house is empty.
• Leave all keys with the new owner, realtor or neighbor.
• Let close friends and relatives know your route, including overnight stops.
• Carry cashier checks or travelers checks for quick available funds.

• Obtain certified check or cashiers check necessary for closing on your new home.
• Check on service of utilities at new address.
• Check pilot light on stove, hot water heater and furnace.
• Ask mail carrier for any mail he or she may be holding for you.
• Have new address recorded on your driver's license, or obtain new one.
• Register your car within five days after arrival in your new city or state, to avoid penalty.
• Register children in school.
• Obtain phone numbers for emergencies, such as fire/police and locate the nearest hospital.
• Register to vote.

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.

Copyright © 2005 by McGibney & Jordan, P.A. All rights reserved.

You may reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for non-commercial distribution. All copies must include the above copyright notice.