It’s best to start preparations for your move a few weeks earlier. This way you can avoid all the hassle and make the moving process less stressful for you and your family.

First, go through every room of your home and make an inventory list of the belongings which you are going to take and which you can get rid of or donate. Think about whether any items will require special packing or extra insurance coverage.

Consider persuading your friends to help you on moving day.

Make a research to choose the moving companies which best fit your moving budget. You may ask your friends or colleagues to recommend trusted movers they have already used. Or try googling such companies to read customer reviews. Do not rely on quotes over the phone. Get your on-site quotes from each company to compare prices. Do not forget to read their “Terms & Conditions” section to know about extra fees, hidden charges, licensing and insurance.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred moving company, set a moving date and insist on a written agreement. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask your move coordinator. Also, discuss packing services, if you’ve decided to trust experienced packers to pack your items.

If you plan packing on your own, consider buying the necessary packing supplies – boxes, tape, bubble wrap and markers.

If your employer is paying for your move, determine the services the movers will be authorized to perform.

Go to your children’s school and ask for their records to be transferred to their new school district.

Reach out to your insurance agent to begin discussing canceling your current policies for auto, property, etc.

You should make a request to your family doctors, dentists and opticians for your medical records.

If you have a pet, check licensing laws for your destination before departing, and secure copies of medical records and any necessary health certificates from your veterinarian.