Before You Move

	Take a full inventory of the items you will move.  A photographic record of dated purchase receipts can be invaluable in the event of loss or damages.  Keep these records, small valuables, and important papers with you during the move.
	Discard, sell, or give away things you won't need.
	Consult with your movers before planning to move any plants.
	Return all library books and borrowed items.
	Use of get rid of frozen and perishable foods.
	Notify the following of your new address a month before the move: Post Office Magazines Banks / Loan Companies Insurance Companies Charge Accounts Employer
	Arrange cut-off dates for utilities and phones.
	Arrange transfer of: School records Medical / dental records Veterinary records Safe deposit boxes Savings accounts Legal records
	Be sure to obtain a sufficient supply of important medical prescriptions.
	Make arrangements for moving your pets.
	If you are doing the packing, obtain materials and begin packing non-essential items at least two weeks prior to the move.
	Keep a record of all tax-deductible moving expenses and receipts.
	Set aside essential, daily-used items.  Pack them last & unload them first. Clothing Medicine Tool kit Pet food Emergency items Light bulbs Toilet articles Cooking utensils Snacks / instant food Bed linens / towels Cleaning supplies Favorite toys / games Hardware from disassembled items
	Make sure your moving company knows where to contact you or your designated representative during the move.

 

Do's

	Label all cartons with their basic contents and their designated room.
	Seal each carton securely with packing tape and be sure all items are well-padded and fit snugly into the box or container.
	Pack lamp shades in separate cartons.
	Wrap dishes separately.  Nest cups and bowls.  Stand plates, saucers and platters on edge.
	Secure all moveable parts on appliances and stereos with tape or special blocks.
	Small appliances should be well-padded and packed in cartons.
	Pack heavy items (such as books) in small boxes; light weight items (such as linens) in large boxes.
	Defrost, clean, dry and deodorize all appliances prior to the move.
	Use your dresser drawers to move clothing.  Cover to protect from soil.
	Drain garden hose(s), coil, and connect ends.  Tie or tape garden tools together.

Don'ts

	Never pack heavy and fragile items together in the same container.
	Do not use newspaper to wrap china or lampshades. It smudges.
	Do no overfill or underfill a box.  This will prevent the box from crushing or breaking open.
	Never leave mirrors, framed pictures, or breakables unprotected.  Use a specially designed container or pad them well.

Definitely don't

Never move flammables, aerosol cans, caustic materials, or explosives!  Empty gasoline or other fuels from all equipment.