• Review your old lease- if you are leaving an apartment, review your lease with your landlord so you know every thing you need to do. (like cleaning and trash removal) to get all your security and deposit back.
  Helpful resources: cleaning, legal services, handyman

• Settle 1 room first- many movers create a "feel at home" room on moving day, usually the moving room or a bedroom furnished and almost completely set up, it is a calm refuge from the chaos of unpacking.
  Helpful resources: settling in

• Don't lose your mail- don't pay late fees & finance charges when you don't have to. fill out your change of address from as early as possible!
  Helpful resources: government agencies, settling in

• Don't live in the dark- arrange to have your electric, gas, satellite cable, water and other service connected in your new home the day before you move in. have service turned off at your old address the day after you move. remember to have your cable box picked up to avoid charges.
  Helpful resources: utilities, phone, cable & internet

• Manage your move-
  
  • Make sure to get estimates from at least 3 companies.
  • Ask for each company's Motor Carrier Number and call USDOT at 202-358-7000 to find out if they are properly registered and insured.
  • Ask your moving company for a copy of your mover's Rights and Responsibilities or visit http://www.protectyourmove.gov/consumer/awareness/rights/rights.htm
  • Stay with the driver as he or she inspects your item and fills out your inventory. make sure every thing is on the truck before signing any releases.
  • At your new home, compare the condition of your goods against the inventory and check for any missing items.
    Helpful resources: moving & boxes
    

• Stay connected- even though cell phones are everywhere, call your local phone company a month before you move and ask for new number. local phone company numbers.
  Helpful resources: phone, cable & internet
  
  
  

Social Security Administration: 800-772-1213 or www.ssa.gov
Currently receiving benefits?, Make sure they move with you. Change your address with the social security administration.

Do Not Call List: www.donotcall.gov

Call the board of education in your new community to arrange for transferring or enrolling your children in schools there. Help your children learn their new town. visit your local library or bookstore to find books about the area you are moving to. Let your children pack and label a few boxes of their own, so they know their favorite staff won't be left behind.

American School Directory: www.asd.com
Facts about local schools including districts on class sizes.

Child Care Aware: 800-424-2246 or www.naccrra.net
This free national child care resource and referral service help to identify and locate quality child care.

INFORMATION FOR PET OWNERS (back to top)

Pack a pet moving kit with any special medications or food your pet requires, along with your pet's medical records and vet's phone number. Be sure your cat or dog is wearing an id tag, in case he or she gets loose. If you are traveling long distance, check ahead to see that your flights, accommodations, etc. are pet-friendly. Ask your vet about required vaccination in your new area. and call the animal care and control agency in your new town to learn about license requirements and local pet ordinances.

INFORMATION FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS AND RENTERS (back to top)

Earth's 911: 800-cleanup or www.1800cleanup.org
Learn about recycling rules, places to dispose of trash and hazardous materials like paint and motor oil, and environmental programs.

Lead Information Center: 800-242-lead (5323)

National Radon Hotline: 800-767-7236

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