4 weeks

• Check into storage options.
• Start collecting boxes and packing materials.
• Give notice to your current landlord or management company.
• Cancel any monthly services. Many require at least 30 days notice or you will be billed for an extra month.
• Before you move--clear out the clutter. Auction off items. Have a yard sale, and set aside donation items.
  ** Note: Movers will not move combustible or flammable materials, or open liquor bottles.
• Arrange for transfer of school records for yourself or children.
• Start touring potential properties. Bring the Apartment Inspection Checklist to help you in your decision-making process.
• Check on special transportation requirements for moving pets.
• Sign a lease or rental agreement for a new property.

3 weeks

• Start packing, remembering to label your boxes so you can unpack with ease. Plan on carrying irreplaceable and hard-to-replace items with you (jewelry, photos, home videos, etc.). Some state laws prohibit the moving of houseplants-consider giving your plants to friends or family.
• Arrange for utilities at your new location. Check out our Utilities section.
• Check to make sure you have returned all rented videos and library books.
• Check dry cleaners, storage facilities and repair shops for personal articles.
• Give forwarding address to old employer, lawyer, accountant.
• Service your car, especially if you're using it for the move.

2 weeks

• Make lodging arrangements if traveling a long distance or if your new residence is not in move-in condition.
• Verify move-in date with new landlord.
• If you are moving from a high rise, you may need to reserve an elevator for moving day.
• Update e-mail address, if necessary. Let your online friends and contacts know.
• If you have young children, arrange for a babysitter on moving day. You can concentrate on the move knowing your kids are watched and safely out of the way.

1 week

• Close or transfer bank account, and get traveler's checks if needed.
• Clear out your safety deposit box as well. Make sure you have money to pay movers. (Some companies accept only cash).
• Notify the post office, and your insurance and credit card companies of your move if you haven't yet. Use our free address change service now.
• Clean your apartment thoroughly, or arrange for house cleaning after you move.
• Make item donations. Remember to collect receipts for tax purpose
• Back up your computer files before dissembling and packing your system.
• Contact utilities to cancel or transfer accounts. You'll want utilities on moving day, so arrange to disconnect them after your move date.

Moving Week

• Defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer; clean your stove.
• Confirm your new address with the moving company.
• Finish packing and labeling your boxes.

Moving Day

• Do a final walk-through of your old residence, checking closets, drawers, etc. Turn off all lights, lock all doors and windows, and leave keys with your old property manager if applicable.
• Be available when the moving truck arrives.
• Keep pets out of movers way

Settling In

• Find great savings in your neighborhood.
• Make a moving-in shopping list.
• Test security and smoke alarms.
• Post local emergency numbers.
• Recycle or store moving boxes.
• Subscribe to the local newspaper.
• Connect your utilities.
• Enroll children in schools.
• Throw a house warming party.
• Learn how to decorate your new place by reusing your old furniture and decor.
• Keep in touch with friends and family.
• Meet new people, make new friends!