GETTING READY TO MOVE:
  
The big day is here!  You’re finally ready to move into your new home!
But there are some things you can do in advance to help make this day a memorable one and not a nightmare.  Here are some tips on getting ready to move:
  
One of the first things to make sure is take care of is your choice of a mover.  When selecting a mover, it’s a good idea to make sure they are a member of a professional moving organization, such as the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA).  There are fly-by-night outfits doing business, and you don’t want to entrust your valuables to one of them.  A responsible mover:

• will be licensed and insured
• will have an established place of business for at least three years
• will visit your home to see if he can serve you properly

Be sure to get a firm estimate on your moving costs.  To do that, your mover will need to have accurate information from you, so don’t withhold any information.
 
It is a good idea to get a recommendation. You should ask your mover to supply you with a few references. A happy customer will be glad to boost about a successful relocation.
  
Make sure the mover's place of business really exists.  Avoid movers who don’t have addresses for places of business.
  
Ask the mover for a certificate of insurance showing all required insurance liabilities. Call your local regulatory agency to verify their license and to insure that the information and certificate number is legitimate.  Be absolutely certain all of your valuables are insured for their replacement value in the event of any accident or liability of the mover.
  
As you get closer to the moving date, you need to take care of a number of important "little things". Getting started early means a smoother transition for your household.

• Change your address at the post office
• Notify utilities, the telephone company, employers, credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, etc., of your address change.
• Buy new appliances
• Make daycare arrangements in your new neighborhood
• Take care of school registration

On your moving day, there are a few last-minute details you can take care of to make things go more smoothly.  They are:

• Confine any pets.
• Provide refreshments, especially cold drinks if it’s a hot day, for the movers.
• Leave your house as clean as you would like to find your new home.
• Make sure you arrive at your new home before the movers.  You may be charged extra if they have to wait on you.

At last—you’re moved!  There are still hundreds of things to do including unpacking boxes, putting things away, getting acquainted with your new neighbors, and probably some unexpected things to handle.  But the worst is over!  Enjoy your new home!