SIX WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE:

• Take an objective look at what you own, and decide what must go and what can be left behind. Books you've read and will never read again? Records you haven't listened to since college? The pan with a broken handle or the children's long- neglected games? Extra weight costs more money.
  
  
• If you have a lot of things worth selling, you may want to organize a garage sale.
  
  
• Start a central file for all of the details on your move. It's a good idea to buy a brightly colored organizer folder with pockets - you'll be less likely to misplace it. Make sure to collect receipts for moving-related expenses. Depending on your reason for moving, you may be entitled to a tax deduction.
  
  
• Create a floor plan of your new home, and begin thinking about where you'll want to place furniture. Advance planning eases the stress of making major decisions when your furniture arrives at your new home. Mark and label specific pieces of furniture on your diagram, and put it in your moving folder.
  
  
• Call for moving estimates
  
  
• Call the Chamber Of Commerce and Visitors & Convention Bureau in your new town and get their new resident information packages.
  
  
• Inventory all household items to be moved, and start packing NOW!
  
  
• Remove all items from basement, storage sheds, attics, and plan a garage sale or charity donation for all items you don't want to move.
  
  
• Start using things up that you can't move, like cleaning supplies and frozen food.
  
  
• Discuss tax-related moving expenses, liabilities, and deductions with your tax advisor.
  
  
• Make a list of all people/organizations to contact about change of address.
  
  
• Complete U.S. Postal Service change of address forms and mail them to all applicable publications, stores and organizations.
  
  
• Get copies of (or arrange for transfer at both ends of move) all school, medical, dental, veterinary, legal, and accounting records.
  
  
• Contact insurance agents to transfer or cancel coverage.
  
  
• If it's a company move, check with your employer to find out what moving expenses they cover.
  
  
• Get a mail subscription for the local paper in your new location to familiarize yourself with the new community, its activities and issues.
  
  
• Locate and obtain all automobile licensing and registration information.
  

FOUR WEEKS BEFORE YOUR MOVE>