Wrap all fragile items individually in packing paper or newspaper and place in sealed cartons.
Pack books flat to help protect their spines. For easy lifting, pack in smaller cartons.
Pack plates on edge in dish packs.
Seal cartons on both top and bottom and label according to room. List contents on the top of each carton.
Place hanging clothes in wardrobe cartons to keep them clean and organized.
Wrap stereos, computers, portable TV's etc. in blankets or paper and place in cartons.
Remove all books, jewelry, coins, glass, etc. from furniture drawers.
Disassemble all beds, take mirrors off dressers, and disconnect - washer, dryer, and the water line to refrigerator (if so equipped). This will save you time and money.
Wrap houseplants to protect them during the move. They may suffer from possible temperature changes in the moving van.
Don't forget, if your busy schedule does not allow you enough time to complete all of your packing, Changing Places Moving will come out a day or two prior to the move to help you pack.
MOVING CHECKLIST
As Soon as Possible...
Contact Post Office for change of address.
Reserve moving date with Changing Places Moving.
Start collecting cartons and paper if you will be doing your own packing.
Four Weeks Before Your Move...
Begin decreasing inventory of frozen foods, groceries, and other items.
START PACKING - if you're doing it yourself
Three Weeks Before Your Move...
Call your insurance company for coverage changes.
Have all records (school, medical, dental) transferred or obtain a copy for yourself
Two Weeks Before Your Move...
Arrange to have services at present address stopped (phone, garbage, cleaners, newspapers, water softener, and utilities) and started at new residence.
Return any items that you might have borrowed from the neighbors or retrieve any items that they have borrowed from you.
One Week Before Your Move...
Leave one closet empty to store items that need to be left behind or that go with you, not the movers.
Remove and pack pictures and wall hangings.
Dispose of all flammables.
Change Address on bank accounts and driver's license. You can change your address with all of your institutions by visiting ChangeAddress.com.
The Day Before The Move...
Unplug stereo and television.
Finish packing personal items.
Clean and air-out stove, refrigerator, and freezer.
Moving Day...
Winterize home (if necessary).
Dispose of garbage.
Ensure that all cupboards and closets are empty.
Clean House.
Check setting on thermostat.
Check all water faucets.
Turn off lights (you may want to leave one light on a timer to turn on at night).
Check to see that all doors and windows are locked.
Leave keys for interior doors that have locks.
Give the movers directions to your new home once the truck is loaded and they are ready to leave.