1. Good movers are important. If you plan to use a moving company get several bids. Most moving companies will be glad to give you a free estimate. Pick a reputable firms and make sure they are insures.

2. Small Children and pets can be a problem on packing and moving days. Arrange to have children taken care of away from the home and have pets boarded at a kennel.

3. Plan to eat out on packing and moving days.

4. Make hotel and motel reservations in advance.

5. Pack items you will need first - tool kit, coffee pot, bed linens, etc. - in one box and ask that they be unloaded first.

6. Label boxes and furniture according to rooms - such as kitchen, bedroom, etc. This helps to save time and causes less confusion.

7. Plan to use up perishable food in your refrigerator so you won't have to move them. Then unload and defrost the refrigerator the day before you plan to move.

8. Bring your valuable documents with you in your car (policies, deeds, etc.) or send them to your new address by certified mail.

Moving Check List

1. Go through storage areas and clean out any unneeded items.

2. Ask friends to return loaned items such as books, tools, etc.

3. Ask your attorney, doctor and dentist to recommend good professionals in your new town.

4. Ask your doctor for copies of renewable prescriptions.

5. Arrange to have your children's school and medical records transferred.

6. Find a bank in your new town and open accounts - checking, savings - and safety deposit box.

7. Close out old bank accounts before you move.

8. Services to discontinue: