Six weeks before you move ...

• Decide on your approximate date for moving.
• Weed out any items you will not need in your new location, or simply no longer want. Make arrangements to have a yard sale, or donate the items to charity.
• Start using up groceries and supplies.

Four weeks before you move ...

• Prepare your change of address announcements and send them out.
• Arrange to have utilities disconnected when your moving date.
• Contact phone and utility companies at the new destination to arrange service connections as soon as you move in.
• Arrange for banking services in your new location.
• Arrange for the transfer of fire, theft and other insurance. Check your policies to make sure your possessions will be insured during the move. Arrange for coverage if needed.

Two weeks before you move ...

• Prepare a floor plan of your new home and make extra copies.
• Use up stocks of canned and frozen foods.
• Collect items being cleaned, repaired, stored or loaned to friends.
• Return library books, and items borrowed from friends.

One week before you move ...

• Keep separate any food, plates and utensils that you will need during the last days and pack them on moving day.
• Organize clothing and supplies that you'll want to keep with you during the actual move. Remember those special toys!
• List items you'll need immediately at the new home, such as a flashlight, light bulbs, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, snacks and drinks. Pack these last and unload them first, along with essentials such as the crib or playpen.
• Organize your moving and travel documents as well as the valuables you will be taking with you.
• Set aside and label items such as luggage that you do not want packed or moved by the movers.