PLANNING YOUR MOVE

Moving is stressful under any circumstances. It can also be a time filled with excitement and positive change. Planning ahead and being prepared reduces stress and will make this time so much easier. Here are some tips to help you be more organized. Below is a timeline to help with creating your moving checklist.

Know your new community. We've done a lot of research for you but you should drive around and get to know your neighborhood. Some moving expenses can be deducted on your next tax return. It's a good idea to know ahead of time so you can spend more efficiently.

Make a list of what you pack. It's a good idea to number the boxes and log the contents. No one wants to think that an accident or theft will happen. But in those unfortunate cases. it will be critical to know the value or your possessions. The more stress you're under, the less likely you will be able to think and remember clearly.

There are some things that can't be replaced. You might want to think through that as you pack and either carry these items with you or ship them by insured or certified mail. Items such as:

• Photos and home videos
• Personal identification documents, wills and other legal documentation
• Jewelry, rare coins and special collections
• Stock certificates, insurance policies and financial records
• Computer backups and important files.

Pack a bag for travel and overnight. Who wants to look through boxes for underwear or a toothbrush on moving day? If you hire a moving company, there is always the chance that your things don't arrive when you do, or when you expect them. Some things you might want with you:

• Drinks
• Snacks and entertainment for the younger ones
• Pet food and supplies
• If you're traveling with Grumpy, make sure there's a coffee shop nearby or bring what you need to make some
• Prescriptions, sleep aids or pain relievers
• Pillows and blankets
• Paper towels, dish soap, trash bags
• Towels, toilet paper, toiletries
• Flashlight, light bulbs, batteries. scissors and/or utility knife
• Can opener, paper or plastic cups, plates and eating utensils
• Alarm Clock
• Necessary Clothing

MOVING TIMELINE

Here are some things to consider when you have an idea of your moving date:

• Start collecting boxes and supplies. You may need tape, markers, scissors, pocketknife, newspaper, moving pads, tie-downs and a dolly.
• Call your insurance agent to see what changes to expect in your policies (especially when changing states).
• Begin using things that can't be moved, such as frozen foods, bleach and aerosol cleaners.
• Start using up consumable items.
• Plan ahead for parking your moving truck or pod". Find out if there are any parking restrictions in your new neighborhood.
• Plan for short-term or long-term storage if needed.

4 to 6 weeks before your move:

• Arrange for a moving company or schedule a rental truck and equipment.
• If not using a service, arrange friends and family to be available to help. Having a packing or moving party is a good idea. These e-cards are a nice option for party invitations.
• Make childcare arrangements for moving day.
• Register children for school and arrange for school records to be transferred.
• Begin packing items you don't use often.
• Clear out unwanted items. Consider donating unwanted items or have a garage sale. If you donate, be sure to get a receipt for income tax purposes.
• Notify the post office that you are moving. An online Change of Address form is available on the United States Postal Service Web site.
• Notify friends, relatives, doctors and creditors of you new address. Don't forget magazines and newspapers. These e-cards are a run resource.
• Ask your doctors if they can refer you to a care provider in your new city.
• Contact health clubs or other organizations for information on how to transfer or cancel any memberships.

2 to 3 weeks prior to your move:

• Notify lawn service, cleaning and security companies when service should be terminated.
• Think ahead about house plants and pets and how they will be transported.
• Properly dispose of flammable or potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Schedule disconnection of utility services at your old residence, as well as connection of them at your new one. Allow a day or so in case things don't go as planned.
• Arrange for cleaning after your move.
• Return borrowed items and get back things you've loaned to friends or neighbors.
• Make sure all library books have been returned and all dry cleaning has been picked up.
• If you are moving into or out of an apartment, arrange to use the elevator on your move day.

The week before Moving Day

• Contact your bank and/or credit union to transfer or close accounts. Clear out safety deposit boxes. Pick up traveler's checks or cash for "on the road" expenses.
• Plan meals so use up consumable items to empty the refrigerator and defrost the freezer.
• Fill any prescriptions or medications you will need for the next couple of weeks.
• Confirm any volunteers or childcare commitments.

Moving Day!

• Have tools handy for breaking down beds and appliances.
• When you think you're done, look again. Don't forget to check the basement, yards, attic, garage and closets.
• If you using a moving service, have the payment set aside (and tip).
• Make sure you have plenty of snacks and water for your volunteers (and maybe even a thank you gift or card).

Next…enjoy your new home!!