Moving Checklist

Make arrangements with moving company or reserve a rental truck. If you will use a mover, get a few estimates from moving companies. If you will move yourself, get costs from at least two truck rental companies.
If you are packing yourself, obtain packing materials and start packing items you won’t need until after you arrive at your new house.
Make arrangements for storage, if necessary.
Start a file for all your moving paperwork (estimates, receipts, etc.).
Arrange to transfer school records.
Obtain medical and dental records, x-rays and prescription histories. Ask doctor and dentist for referrals and transfer prescriptions. Be sure you have an adequate supply of medications on hand.
Set up a checking account in your new city.
Check into the laws and requirements of your new city regarding home-based businesses, professional tests, business licenses and any special laws that might be applicable to you.
Take inventory of your belongings before they’re packed, in the event you need to file an insurance claim later. If possible, take pictures or video tape your belongings. Record serial numbers of electronic equipment.
Make arrangements for transporting pets.
Start using up food items, so that there is less left to pack and possibly spoil. Use cleaning supplies that cannot be moved.
Properly dispose of items that cannot be moved, such as flammable liquids.
Assemble a file folder of information to leave for the new owner of your home.

Schedule disconnection of all utility services at your old home, and connection of them at your new one. Be sure to disconnect the day after you leave and connect the day before you arrive. If you have “last month” deposits with services, such as the telephone company, request your refund. Inform electric, disposal, water, newspaper, magazine subscription, telephone and cable companies of your move.

PG&E: 1-800-743-5000
MMWD: 415-945-1400
Comcast: 1-800-945-2288
Marin IJ: 415-883-8633
SF Chronicle: 1-800-310-2455
Marin Sanitary: 415-456-2601

Notify other associations of your move such as insurance companies, brokers, accountant, lawers, veterans administration, cellular phone, credit card companies, clubs, magazines and business associates.
Prepare auto registration for transfer (if moving to another state). Fill out and mail notification to DMV for address change.
Fill out change of address order form for post office. This can be done online at https://moversguide.usps.com/?referral=USPS.
Fill out an IRS change of address form.
Arrange for help on moving day.
Have appliances serviced for moving.
Clean rugs and clothing and have them wrapped for moving.
Make child care arrangements for moving day.
Hold moving sale. Be sure to check with local authorities about restrictions. Arrange for disposal of anything not sold at your moving sale.
Check with your insurance agent to ensure you’ll be covered through your homeowner’s or renter’s policy during the move.
Return any borrowed items (including library books) and retrieve any loaned items.
Pack a travel kit: Put aside critical items like a checkbook, credit cards, personal phone book, ID, flashlight, keys, toiletries, tools, paper plates, cups, towels, travel alarm clock. Aspirin, bandages and games for the kids. Also, pack a suitcase with clothing and other personal items.

Close bank accounts and have your funds wired to your new bank. Before closing, be sure there are no outstanding checks or automatic payments that haven’t been processed.
Disconnect and prepare major appliances for move.
Defrost freezer and refrigerator. Place deodorizer inside to control odors.
Drain pwer equipment of oil and gas. Drain water hoses.
Find new homes for plants that will not be moved.
Drain your waterbed.
Give a close friend or relative your travel route and schedule so you may be reached if needed.
Set aside anything that will travel in your car so it will not be loaded on the truck.
Pack a box of items that will be needed first at the new house. Clearly mark this box “Load Last”.
Confirm arrival time of your moving van/truck.
Dismantle beds and other large furniture.
Collect valuables from safe-deposit box. Make copies of any important documents before mailing or hand carry them to your new address.

If using a mover, be sure someone is at the old house to answer questions.
Note all utility meter readings.
Read your bill of lading and inventory carefully before signing. Keep this paperwork in a safe place.
Double check closets, drawers, shelves, attic and garage to be sure they are empty.
Carry important documents, currency and jewelry yourself, or use registered mail.