It's really never too soon to begin planning for a move, and veteran movers have found that a comprehensive timetable and checklist is the best strategy to ensure a smooth relocation. It's also a great way to involve the entire family in the move and to spread some of the responsibilities to each person, including your children You'll feel a sense of accomplishment as items are checked off. Moreover, as the weeks roll by, your checklist will help ensure that nothing has been overlooked or omitted from your planning, and that alone will go a long way toward relieving some of your anxiety.

Immediately After Entering Into An Unconditional Purchase For Your New Home:

1. Contact movers and schedule appointments for quotes on your move. Caution do not just base your decision on the lowest cost, as this does not necessarily give you the best mover, and remember this is only an estimate. Look for price guarantees.

2. If some of your goods are to be stored, make the necessary arrangements now. (Your chosen moving consultant should be able to help.)

3. On closing date verify the time you will be recieving keys for access into your new home, to avoid any extra costs that may be incurred due to movers waiting for access.

4. Collect important papers (agreements of puchase and sale and related documents, insurance papers, wills, deeds, stock, etc.).

Eight Weeks Before Closing

1. Organize and start packing items from your attic, basement, storage shed, etc.

2. Start to use up things you can't move, such as frozen foods and cleaning supplies.

3. Begin to inventory and evaluate your possessions. What can be sold or donated to a charitable organization? What haven't you used within the last year?

4. Plan a garage sale to sell unneeded items or arrange to donate them to charity.

5. If moving to a new community, contact the Chamber of Commerce or visitors and tourism bureaus for information.

Six Weeks Before

1. If you're moving at an employer's request, verify what expenses and responsibilities are theirs and which are yours.

2. Contact your accountant for information on what moving expenses may be tax-deductible.

3. Make a list of everyone you need to notify about your move: friends, professionals, creditors, subscriptions, etc.

4. Obtain a mail subscription to the local paper in your new community to familiarize yourself with local government, community, and social news and activities.

5. Locate all auto licensing and registration documents.

6. Contact schools, doctors, dentists, lawyers and accountants and obtain copies of your personal records. Ask for referrals where possible.

Four Weeks Before

1. Obtain a change-of-address kit from the post office and begin filling out the cards.

2. Arrange special transport for your pets and plants.

3. Contact utility and related companies for service disconnect/connect at your old and new addresses.

4. NOTE: remember to keep phone and utilities connected at your current home throughout moving day.