Moving is no picnic. But with proper planning, it needn’t be a nightmare. First thing to consider: Professional movers usually have insurance for any damage they might accidentally cause. Friends and relatives will not. They’re also unlikely to have the training and practiced skills of professional movers. If you’re planning on a self-move, organize the schedule to avoid rushing and include rest breaks. People who are tired or in a hurry are more likely to hurt themselves or their belongings.

No matter who moves you, be sure to take precautions to protect vulnerable surfaces (on both ends of the move) such as hardwood or resilient floors. Cover banisters and railings with moving pads or blankets. Remove doors if feasible where furniture might be a tight fit. Protect carpets with ribbed, plastic runners.

Here’s a good general preparation checklist. Feel free to add your own steps:

If using professional movers

  • Obtain & compare proposals from professional movers
  • Obtain costs for services such as packing and unpacking
  • Don’t forget costs of packing materials and boxes
  • Are there distance and weight charges?
  • Insurance coverage/cost?
  • Availability and advance notice requirements

Self-moving considerations

  • If self-moving, plan well in advance
  • Make truck reservation early
  • Include reservations for dollies and moving pads, as needed
  • Reconfirm one week prior to the move
  • If you have children, involve them in planning and preparing for the move

Things to do no matter who moves you

  • Create a file for storing documents about your home and manufacturer literature
  • Retain receipts for records. Moving costs may be deductible; your tax pro will know.
  • Send Change of Address cards to magazines & book clubs six weeks prior to move
  • Provide a forwarding order to your old post office one month prior, to assure uninterrupted service
  • Register children in their new schools
  • Transfer medical and dental records, if necessary
  • Arrange homeowner insurance & obtain proof certificate you’ll need for Closing
  • Order checks with your new address; update financial records
  • Update your driver’s license, car and voter registration
  • Properly dispose of flammable / hazardous materials that should not be moved