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Get rid of items you no longer need - have a garage sale! This will reduce the amount of packing you have and lower moving costs.
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Interview & get estimates from at least 3 moving companies. Ask about the conditions (is it guaranteed not to exceed a certain amount?).
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Ask for each moving company's Motor Carrier # and call US Dept of Transportation to find out if they are properly registered and insured.
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Check moving company references and check on past problems with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure your chosen moving company gives you a copy of "Your Mover's Rights and Responsibilities".
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Purchase extra insurance from your moving company in case of accidents while moving.
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Begin gathering boxes, tape, bubble wrap, newspapers, garbage bags, and markers for packing. Print out a copy of our "Packing for a Move" Checklist - http://www.printablechecklists.com/checklist45.shtml to keep organized!
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If you plan to drive to your new home, gather maps and directions. If you're flying, be sure to book your flight, hotel, and rental car in advance.
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Hold on to all your moving receipts - they may be tax deductible!
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Put all your important papers (insurance, health records, wills, etc.) in a safe place. Do not pack these -- take them with you.
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Have all family members complete their health checkups.
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Mail a Change of Address Form (PS Form 3575) to the US Post Office. They will send a notice to your old address confirming the receipt of your change of address.
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Send out address notification cards (available at your local post office). Fill out our Change of Address Checklist http://www.printablechecklists.com/checklist47.shtml.
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If your pets are not traveling with you, be sure to make arrangements for them.
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If driving your car on vacation, make sure you have spare tire and jack; and do routine inspection and oil changes.
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Back up important computer files - do not pack these if you don't have to (carry with you).
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Begin packing items that you aren't using. See our Packing Checklist - http://www.printablechecklists.com/checklist45.shtml and keep track of what needs to be done.
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If you can at this time, have a phone line installed at your new home, and call for services such as cable, electric, etc.
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