·          Inform gas, electric, water, cable, local, long distance and cellular telephone and trash removal services of your move.

·          Recruit moving day help.

·          Save moving receipts (many moving expenses are tax deductible).

·          Arrange to close or transfer your bank accounts, if appropriate

·          Complete U.S. Post Office change of address form and notify key providers including newspaper, credit cards, banks, 
           investment firms, insurance companies and the IRS.

Moving Tip #2 – How to Pack China

·          Layer bubble wrap between, leaving space at top of the box to fill in with
           wadded newspaper.

·          Place wadded newsprint or Styrofoam peanuts in the bottom of a box
           and put layers of plates or bowls on top.  Fill in top and sides with
           peanuts or newsprint.

·          Seal and mark “Fragile – China”.  You’re done!

Moving Tip #3 – How to Pack Glasses and Teacups

·          Wrap each glass or teacup in bubble wrap and tape it.

·          Put a layer of peanuts on the bottom of the box.  Place wrapped glasses or
            cups on top, upright.

·          Place a layer of cardboard and another layer of packing material on top
           and the sides.

·          When you’ve reached the top put a final layer of material on top, seal,
           and mark “Fragile – China/Crystal”.

Moving Tip #4 – How to Pack Original Paintings

·          If your painting is framed with glass, tape the front like an X with masking tape.

·          Cover the framed painting or canvas with bubble wrap and tape it closed.

·          Build a box to fit that is slightly bigger than the painting, or purchase one.  If you’re packing a canvas (no frame,
           no glass), wrap the cardboard box in bottle wrap again, tape it, then build or buy a second box slightly bigger
           than the first. Double boxing helps guarantee against other sharp objects puncturing the box and canvas during the move

·          Tape the box well and mark “Fragile – Art.”

Moving Tip #5 – The Wrap on Packing Tape

·          Reinforced tape has nylon filaments running through it.  This stuff is
           really tough – excellent for closing and reinforcing heavy boxes.

·          Plastic tape is not nearly as tough as the reinforced kind, but works
           well for all but the heaviest boxes.

·          The clear variety is generally a bit heavier than the brown kind, which
           makes for easier handling. In any case, make sure it’s at least
           2” wide: 3” wide is better.

Moving Tip #6 – Packing Power

·          Try to reuse the original box and packaging material for re-packing the piece.

·          Keep dust out of your electronics by wrapping it in linen or clean paper.

·          Seal boxes completely with packing tape to further minimize dust accumulation.

·          To save reconnection time, use corresponding colored tape on the cord and where the cord connects to the device.

·          Sensitive devices may need to be stored in climate controlled units during the move.

Moving Tip #7 – Manage the Mover

·          Get a binding estimate from the moving company with amount written in contract.  The contract should specify number of
           hours, with no more than 10% overrun.

·          Check their on-time record and other complaints with the local Better Business Bureau

·          Movers are limited by law regarding what they can give you for lost or damaged goods.  Check existing homeowner’s or
           renter’s policy for the balance.

·          Document an inventory of your belongings before packing.