with you, grouped, sorted, labeled, and numbered according to the room to which they belong. Numbering boxes is a good idea, so you can indicate on the checklist where each item is packed, which will help you to fin d them when you’re unpacking at your new home. Th is makes sorting and identifying your items much simpler, and helps the unpacking process go much smoother. Th e second checklist involves all the diff erent steps to take and tasks to complete as part of the moving process. Th is includes cleaning, decluttering, discarding, packing, labeling, utilities, hiring movers, etc. Remember, no task is too small for your second checklist. Don’t assume you can remember even the little things in your mind. Organizing a move can be stressful enough without having to worry about “that thing you forgot” but didn’t write down. Write it down! Or type it in a Word document and print it. Or use a checklist app on your phone. Or all three! It pays to be prepared. A Month Before the Move: • Hire a moving company. If you choose to hire a moving company, ask around (friends, family, neighbors, co- workers, colleagues, on Facebook) for recommendations and referrals to moving companies. Do some research online and read through the reviews. Pick a handful of companies and call to ask about their services, procedures, policies, and fees. Get at least three estimates from diff erent companies so that you can compare their services and prices, and then choose the one that best suits both your needs and your budget. For more information about this process, read below under “Choosing and Hiring a Moving Company.” • Declutter. Now is the time to go through all the st uff in your home and determine what you will keep and what 171
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