Six to Eight Weeks Before:

·                          Use up things that may be difficult to move, such as frozen food.

·                          Get estimates from professional movers or truck rental companies if you are moving yourself.

·                          Once you've selected a mover, discuss insurance, packing, loading and delivery and the claims procedure.

·                          Sort through your possessions. Decide what you want to keep, what you want to sell and what you wish to donate to charity.

·                          Record serial numbers on electronic equipment and take photos of or videotape all your belongings.

·                          At Windermere, we offer Northwest Home Connections in most areas. Ask me about this program for changing your utilities, including phone, power and water, from your old address to your new address.

·                          Obtain a change of address packet from the post office and send to creditors, magazine subscriptions and catalog vendors.

·                          Discuss tax-deductible moving expenses with your accountant and begin keeping accurate records.

·                          If you're moving to a new community, contact the Chamber of Commerce and school district and request information about services.

·                          Make reservations with airlines, hotels and car rental agencies, if needed.

Two to Four Weeks Before:

·                          If you are moving yourself, use your inventory list to determine how many boxes you will need.

·                          Begin packing non-essential items.

·                          Arrange for storage, if needed.

·                          If you have items you don't want to pack and move, hold a yard sale.

·                          Get car license, registration and insurance in order.

·                          Transfer your bank accounts to new branch locations. Cancel any direct deposit or automatic payments from your accounts.

·                          Make special arrangements to move pets and consult your veterinarian about ways to make travel comfortable for them.

·                          Have your car checked and serviced for the trip.

·                          Collect items from safe-deposit box.

One Week Before:

·                          Talk to your pharmacist about transferring important medical prescriptions.

·                          Arrange for a baby sitter on moving day.

·                          Return library books and videotapes.

Two to Three Days Prior:

·                          Defrost your refrigerator and freezer.

·                          Have movers pack your belongings.

·                          Arrange to have payment ready for moving company.

·                          Set aside legal documents and valuables that you do not want packed.

·                          Pack clothing and toiletries, along with extra clothes in case the moving company is delayed.

·                          Give your travel itinerary to a close friend or relative so they can reach you as needed.

Old Home

·                          Pick up the truck as early as possible if you are moving yourself.

·                          Make a list of every item and box loaded on the truck.

·                          Label each box with the contents and the room where you want it to be delivered.

·                          Let the mover know how to reach you.

·                          Double-check closets, cupboards, attic, basement and garage for any left-behind items.

New Home

·                          Be on hand at the new home to answer questions and give instructions to the mover.

·                          Check off boxes and items as they come off the truck.

·                          Install new locks.

·                          If you've used Windermere's Northwest Home Connections program, your utilities should be turned on and ready for use.

·                          Unpack your "first day" box.

·                          Unpack children's toys and find a safe place for them to play.

·                          Examine your goods for damage.