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If your company is moving you, read your relocation policy and familiarize yourself with the benefits provided.

Get organized now. Don't wait until the last minute. Make lists of things you need to do and when.

Make sure you are ready for the packers and movers. Don't forget to do all of the laundry, wash all of the dishes, pack your suitcases, disconnect computers, stereos, DVD and other players. Place all the cords and remote controls in a safe place.

Moving is an emotional time, especially for children. Make them part of the process. See Moving With Children.

Make arrangements for pets during the move.

Set aside those items that you will be taking with you on your trip and clearly mark them as DO NOT PACK.

Make a list of everyone you need to notify about your move -- friends, professionals, creditors, subscriptions, etc.

Arrange to close your accounts in your local bank and open accounts in your new hometown.

Contact insurance companies (auto, home owners or renters, medical and life) to arrange for coverage in your new hometown.

Obtain a mail subscription to the local paper in your new community to familiarize yourself with your new hometown.

Contact schools, doctors, dentists, veterinarians, lawyers and accountants and obtain copies of your personal records.

Obtain a change–of–address kit from the post office or go to https://moversguide.usps.com and do it online.

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.

Once your refrigerator has been disconnected, thoroughly wash and dry the inside, then put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep it smelling fresh and to avoid mildew.

Prepare an "unload me first" carton with essentials that you'll need immediately on arrival at your new home. Toilet paper, telephone, toothpaste and brushes, snacks, coffee and coffee pot, soap, flashlight, screwdrivers, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a couple of pans and paper towels are some of the suggested items.

Drain the gas and oil from your power equipment (lawnmower, edger, snow blower etc.).

Schedule house cleaning and other home services for the day after loading. Things will be hectic and you won't need to deal with several different service providers at once.

Have your utilities shut off the day after loading, as you will probably need them through the course of the move. Contact: gas, electric, water, telephone, cable TV, trash collection.

Make your travel arrangements for the day after loading. In case of weather delays or other unforeseen problems, you wouldn't want to miss a flight or other travel-related appointment.

Make a note of your shipment registration number found in the upper right hand corner of your bill of lading and keep it with you in case you need to call the mover with questions or need to track your move on line.

Before the van leaves for your destination, give the driver and your move coordinator phone numbers where you can be reached. It's also a good idea to get the driver's cell phone number.

Make sure to pack your current phone book to take with you. You may need to make calls to your former hometown.

Be aware of items that can't be moved with the mover. These items include:

Flammable items Combustible items Aerosol cans Hazardous materials Gasoline Plants Paints Ammunition and Explosives Jewelry Legal documents (wills, financial papers, insurance documents, etc.)

Hook up the TV and DVD or VCR first to occupy the kids while the rest of your belongings are being unloaded.

Let your personal computer adjust to the room temperature in your new home before plugging it in.

Make a written diagram of where the furniture is to be placed in each room. This will help the driver and make the delivery process smoother and less hectic.

When using a mover, remember that you are the customer and the boss. If you have any concerns at all, contact your move coordinator immediately.