SIX WEEKS BEFORE THE MOVE:

• Visit HomLease.com to check availability of homes.
• Begin getting estimates from moving companies.
• Find our what expenses your employer will cover.

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE THE MOVE:

• Check the pre-registration procedures for enrolling children in school.   Get children's transcripts and a list of textbooks they currently use.  Obtain a copy of the grading system at the current school.  Ask teachers for a statement describing the student's achievement level and interests.  Get official written description of any unusual courses taken.  See the PISD website for additional information on Plano Schools.
• Request copies of all medical, dental and veterinary records and birth certificates to be sent to your new home.
• Notify the post office of your new address and obtain a change-of-address kit.  Send change-of-address cards to friends, subscription services, creditors, alumni associations, the Department of Motor Vehicles and insurance companies.
• Begin packing seldom-used-items and dispose of unwanted items through charities. (Get receipts for tax purposes).
• Contact the IRS for forms and regulations regarding tax-deductible moving expenses.  Transfer or arrange for insurance in Plano to cover you home, furnishings and automobile.  See the IRSwebsite for more information on moving expenses.

THREE WEEKS BEFORE THE MOVE:

• Arrange to have appliances, utilities, newspaper, laundry, phone and cable TV disconnected.  Check on deposits.  Set up connections at your new home.
• Make travel arrangements
• Make special arrangements for transporting pets and plants.  Some plants may not be transported across state lines - check with your moving company.
• Clean cupboards
• Plan remaining meals so you can pack what you don't need.

ONE WEEK BEFORE THE MOVE:

• Discontinue delivery services such as the newspaper.
• Clean and sort items in garage and attic.
• Clean out your safety deposit box and place all valuables and documents together.  Either carry them with you or send them ahead by registered, insured mail.

TWO DAYS BEFORE THE MOVE:

• Defrost and dry refrigerators and freezers.
• Arrange for cash or traveler's checks for trip expenses and payment to the mover upon delivery.
• Reconcile and close checking account.  Withdraw savings.
• Conclude any financial matters relating to the lease or sale of your home.
• Pack luggage.  Set aside items you will need immediately upon arrival - a few dishes, pots and pans, towels, soap, bedding, light bulbs, flash lights and toilet paper.
• Have movers pack goods.
• Leave forwarding address with new tenant.

MOVING DAY:

• Reconfirm your delivery date with your mover and provide directions to your new residence.
• Pay close attention to the mover's paperwork.  You will need to sign it upon completion of loading.
• Supervise the movers to make sure your instructions are understood.
• Double-check your residence for forgotten items before leaving.