A Checklist for Before and After You’ve Moved

• Take Notes
  Make a note of your shipment registration number and keep it with you in case you need to call your mover with questions about your shipment.
• Get the Bed Ready
  Designate one drawer of a dresser for sheets and towels so that you won't have to rummage through boxes for these essentials the first night in your new home.
• Don’t forget about the Fridge
  After you've thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep the interior smelling fresh.
• Keep the Phone Book
  Take your current phone book with you. You may need to make calls to residents or businesses back in your former hometown.
• Pack Heavy – Pack Light
  Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes.
• Give out your Number
  Before the van foreman leaves for your destination residence, give him a phone number where you can be reached. It is also a good idea to provide him with an alternate contact in case you can't be reached.
• Protect Your Memories
  If it’s irreplaceable, take it with you in the car (you don’t want regrets later). But if you do decide to pack framed photos or art, place sheets or blankets between them for added protection.
• Know how to Pack Plates and Records
  Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.
• Remember the Bare Necessities
  Toilet paper, telephone, toiletries, snacks, coffee (and pot), soap, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups, utensils, a couple of pans, and paper towels are some of the essentials you may need upon arrival at your new home. Pack a box with these types of items and ask your van foreman to load it last so that it will be unloaded first.
• Unscrew Bulbs
  Remove bulbs before packing your lamps.
• Tag your Items
  For your garage sale, tag all items and be prepared to wheel and deal. Garage sale gurus love to haggle.
• Give the Kids an Exercise
  Have children write their names and new address on the cartons from their rooms so they can become familiar with their new street and town.
• Help your Pet Relax
  Keep your pet calm and away from all the activity on moving day by arranging for a friend to watch him at their house.
• Be Nice to Your Plants
  When moving plants to your new residence via your car, try not to let foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves will scorch.
• Take a Break from the Computer
  Upon arrival at your new home, let your computer "acclimate" itself to room temperature before plugging it in.
• Enjoy the Help
  Leave the rest to the professionals, sit back and relax, and look forward to the new opportunities, friends and experiences that are part of any move.