The process of moving can be a very stressful experience for many folks, so follow these important tips to make the experience easier.

1. If using professional movers, get quotes well in advance of your anticipated move.  Knowing the costs of a move is the first step to alleviating stress.
2. Set a date for your move and book the movers as early as possible (especially if you are moving out-of-state or toward the end of the month.)
3. Create a household inventory detailing each household good and the number and condition of the items.  (Consider photographing these items as well to ensure that all items arrive at your new home in proper condition as well as to create a record in case something gets lost in the move.)  Record serial numbers and brand names for all electronics and items of value, and if you have the receipts for those items, place them in an envelope to be kept with your household inventory.
4. When packing, keep items for each room together and label the box indicating which room in the new house the box should be placed.
5. Compile all important documents (i.e., birth certificates, marriage licenses, social security cards, insurance policies and wills, deeds and titles, stock and bond certificates, passports, your household inventory list) and keep those documents with you throughout the move.
6. Take your pets to the vet and make sure that all of their shots are up-to-date.  Carry all appropriate documentation and medication with you on moving day.  Also, make sure that your contact information is attached to your pet in case it should get lost in unfamiliar surroundings.  If possible, have your pet stay with a family member, friend, or pet day care center on the day of the move and retrieve your pet the next day.  Moving is stressful for animals as well humans, and removing pets from the chaos, if possible, makes the moving experience much easier for them.
7. Make sure that you have retrieved items from the cleaners and that you have returned all library books and rented movies.
8. Retrieve items from safety deposit boxes, close accounts, and make arrangements for new accounts at your new location.

Wishing you sunshine everyday and the home of your dreams,
Jeri