Homeowners: Ensure that repairs and other maintenance agreed upon are complete.

Renters: Complete checkout cleaning and any other steps necessary to get your security deposit returned.

Terminate utilities and other home services in your old home.

If you're moving a refrigerator or freezer, be sure to defrost them at least one full day before your move.

Sell or donate unused or unwanted possessions.

Get your automobile serviced before leaving.

Research your choices for TV, Internet, and phone service for new home.

Arrange for your utilities and home services to be connected.

Hire a moving company or rent a moving truck.

Find a storage facility if needed.

Start gathering essential packing items (boxes, labels, markers, tape, etc.).

Set up a place to stay during the opening stages of your move and make contingency plans for pets, children, and senior citizens in your family.

Cancel local memberships. You may need to display proof of your move in order to receive a refund on the remainder of your contract.

Fill out a Change of Address form at USPS.com. The USPS does not forward your mail unless you take this step.

Purchase cleaning materials, garbage bags, and cardboard boxes.

Start cleaning (sweep/vacuum flooring, clean oven, etc.) and sell or donate unwanted items.

Create an inventory of your belongings in case something gets lost or stolen.

Use this list to confirm that you've packed everything.

Empty your local safe deposit box, ensuring you have all your important documents such as passports, birth certificates, and tax information. Return library books. Pick up everything from the dry cleaners. Retrieve the spare keys you kept at your neighbor's house.

Create a kit with items you'll need the day of your move. Include items like medications, phone chargers, and toiletries, and remember payment for your movers.

Measure your furniture against the doorways of your new home.

Locate important items like utility meters, smoke detectors, and alarm control panels.

Identify local trash and recycling days.