To Do List

Get rid of anything you aren’t bringing with you.
Find out where to dispose of household chemicals like old paint.
Make a list of everything you’re bringing to your new home.
Find out the replacement value of all belongings, for insurance purposes.
Fill out a change of address form. Notify friends, family and others of your new address.
Fill out an IRS change of address form.
Get copies of your medical and dental records, if necessary.
Get copies of veterinary records, if necessary.
If you’re moving out of state, find out about auto licensing and insurance.
If you’re moving in-state, find out where and how to change your address on your driver’s license.
Notify your kids’ schools and have their records transferred to their new schools.
Return any cable equipment.
Make hotel and airline reservations if you need them.

Return library books or any other borrowed items.
Collect all the items you may have loaned out.
Make arrangements to disconnect gas, electric and other utilities.
Make arrangements to connect utilities at your new place.
Arrange to have major appliances prepped for the move.

Get rid of all flammables.
Figure out what you’re bringing with you in the car or plane.
Arrange for removal of “installed items” you’re bringing with you, like a TV antenna or shelves.
Pack a suitcase with the clothes and toiletries you’ll need the first day in your new home.
Pack a special box with other essentials you’ll need for the first few days. (Make sure to mark this box “Do Not Move.”

Take down curtains and curtain rods.
Empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator. Make sure it has at least 24 hours to air dry.
Clean and air your stove.
Plan your breakfast. Paper plates service is fine. Eating something on the road is better.
Pack your personal belongings except your alarm clock.
Go to sleep early you’ll be glad of it tomorrow.

Collect all keys to locking items. Put them in a safe place.
Strip the beds but leave them intact. We will dismantle them.
Make sure you’re at home when the movers arrive, so you can sign an inventory.
Walk around with the crew chief while he does the inventory.
Make sure everything’s been readied for the move.
Keep your signed bill of lading and inventory in an easily accessible place.
Make sure the driver has the correct delivery address and phone number.
Confirm the expected delivery time with the driver.
Before you leave, do a final walkthrough of every room. Check all closets and cabinets.