6–8 Weeks Prior to Move

Collect and organize all legal documents including auto licensing and registration documents, school records, birth certificates, wills, deeds, financial documents.
Obtain your medical and dental records. Arrange for school transcripts to be sent to the new school(s).
Get written estimates from reputable moving companies. Check with building management regarding reserving an elevator for your move date. Also inquire about the buildings insurance requirements from the mover.
If you are having a moving sale, plan the date, time, and items to be sold. Consider advertising the sale in local newspapers.
Consolidate books and paperwork, throw out or eliminate unwanted items, and/or donate to a local charity.
Contact any service companies you may need on either end (painters, cleaners, trash removal) to check their prices and availability.

4–5 Weeks Prior to Move

Have Moving Ahead deliver any packing materials you may need, or obtain them from another source. Remember, we can pack your belongings for you as well.
Begin pricing and marking items to be sold in your moving sale, and organize them for the sale.
Begin packing your belongings. Start with infrequently used and non essential display items. Contractor bags, available at any hardware store or home center are great for packing pillows, comforters, quilts and towels.
Contact utility companies like electric, oil, water, gas, telephone and let them know your service termination date Contact utility companies for the new home to connect/start new service.

Have your moving sale. Have a backup plan for any items that may not sell.
Make arrangements for young children and pets to be taken care of on move day. Young kids and pets are great to have around, except on moving day.
Contact your real estate attorney and confirm your closing date. Make sure all banking related matters, including new accounts are taken care of.
Schedule service/maintenance on your car, particularly if that is your sole transportation option on move day.
Continue packing. Have a routine of packing a few boxes each day. This will eliminate unnecessary stress that can build if you feel unprepared as move day approaches.

Confirm your moving arrangements with Moving Ahead. If in an apartment building also confirm your reservation with building management.
Finish packing, leaving only the absolute necessities to be packed one day prior to moving day. Make sure all prescription medicines accessible and available.
If you have not finished packing, call Moving Ahead and let us help you. It is better to arrange for help a few days prior to the move rather than deal with the anxiety of not being prepared.
Check all your closets, the basement, attic and garage to make sure nothing is mistakenly left behind.
Take a final reading on all utility meters.
Leave house keys, and garage door opener, with your real estate sales associate or the new owners.

Be ready for the Moving Ahead crew to deliver your items into the new home. Color coded and numbered items make delivery quicker.
Be prepared to make decisions regarding items that may not fit where you thought they would. Have a backup plan for these type of items.
Enjoy your new home!!!