Make Moving Easier Complete Guide for a Long-distance Move | Page 10

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Host a garage sale or drop off unwanted items at a local donation center. This step will
help you avoid packing (and paying to move) items you no longer use.
Tell younger kids about the move. Be prepared for resistance, and come to the discussion
with information about the new house, school district, local teams and clubs, and other
changes that might require an explanation.
3 Weeks Before Moving:
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Make a plan for your plants. Most movers won't take them, so either prepare to move
them yourself or give them to a friend or nursing home.
Alert the post office of your change in address. Cancel any local subscriptions.
Start packing knickknacks, dishes, and other nonessentials.
Transfer or cancel any gym memberships, library cards, award programs, or clubs.
If you're shipping furniture across the country, empty the contents and wrap the pieces
securely in bubble wrap.
2 Weeks Before Moving:
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Alert your bank of the move. Be prepared to switch over accounts if it's a local branch.
Empty any safe deposit boxes.
If you're driving, take your car in for an oil change and general checkup.
Confirm time and location details with your mover.
Notify the utilities company of a turn-off date at your old place and a turn-on date at your
new place. Same with cable and internet companies.