Four weeks before the move:

• Make a “Moving” file folder to keep track of documentation and records of the moving process.
• Set up a calendar for your move to mark deadlines and reminders.
• Hold a garage sale to get rid of furniture, clothes, and other items you don’t want to move.
• Contact a local charity to donate any unneeded furniture and items not sold in the garage sale.
• Purchase boxes, tape, rope, wrapping/padding material, and other moving supplies.
• Line up a moving company or make reservations to rent a moving truck if you plan to do the heavy lifting yourself.
• Gather medical, dental, school, and other records.
• Put together all financial, tax, and employment documentation that may be needed during your loan process and keep it all accessible.
• Contact your insurance company to transfer your life, auto, and homeowner’s policies.

Two weeks before the move:

• Transfer stocks, bonds, bank accounts, and contents of safety deposit boxes to a trusted financial institution near your new home.
• Organize the clothes you will be moving; separate them into suitcases, keeping those you need readily available.
• Review the moving checklist so far, making sure you are still on track for the move.

One week before the move:

• Drain outdoor equipment: water from hoses, propane tanks from barbecue grills, and gas and oil from lawn mowers.
• Properly discard any aerosol, paint, oils, and all flammable and/or toxic chemicals.
• Label items you need to easily access and place them in a separate room or closet.
• Schedule a pest control company to service your home before moving, especially on new construction.
• Clean your refrigerator and let it air out at least 24 hours before moving.