Move-in checklist

Moving in doesn't have to be a headache if you plan out carefully. Follow the list below to get started on the right track.

It's a month away:	Print this list
Collect important papers and keep them in a safe place. Give the landlord notice in writing. Compile a list of important new phone numbers. Time for a yard sale? Figure out what to keep, what to sell and what to give away. Hire a moving company. Schedule the move. Pack and label boxes of seldom-used stuff.
It's two weeks away:
Confirm your moving date and time with your moving company. Arrange for phone service for your new home. Arrange to board your pets on moving day. Coordinate disconnect/connect dates with gas, electric and cable TV companies. Arrange cancellation of newspaper deliveries and start up new subscriptions. Pack and label boxes of items you won't need for the next couple of weeks. Complete a mail forwarding card at the Post Office. Pick up change-of-address cards at the Post Office and start sending them to: Accountant Alumni Association Attorney Banks/Credit Unions Catalog Companies Charities Church/Synagogue Credit/Dept. Store Cards Dentist Doctors Friends/Relatives Insurance Companies Investment Companies IRA's Magazine Subscriptions Service Contracts Stockbroker Veterinarian
It's today:
Confirm mover's arrival time. Keep important documents and keys handy. Take pets to the vet or a boarder for the day. Double-check closets, attic, basement and garage. Lock windows and doors, turn off lights. Turn in keys to landlord or real estate company. Leave your old home once movers are on their way to the new home. Meet movers promptly at your new home. Supervise placement of boxes and furniture. Check to see if utilities and phones are working. Leave an extra set of keys with a trusted someone. Collapse on sofa.
Moving large or fragile items:
Get measurements of doors and hallways in your new home. Measure furniture to make sure it will fit, both in the room and through the doors. Consult with movers about arranging a hoist for extra large or heavy objects. Can furniture legs be removed? Or can you remove the door of a large refrigerator or freezer? Pack electronics separately and check owners manuals for special instructions. Back up computer hard disk. Wrap breakables in soft paper, then pack in shredded newspaper. Mark "fragile."
Do-it-yourself movers:
Reserve moving truck and equipment at least one month in advance. Rent a large enough truck. Along with plenty of boxes, get dollies, padding and a loading ramp. Load heavy furniture first, pad fragile items and secure the load.