While eliminating the stress of moving is impossible, taking the time to plan and prepare ahead of your move date can dramatically reduce the chance of chaos. Unsure how to prepare? An experienced moving and storage company will guide you through the process from start to finish. Tom Carlton Movers of Cincinnati, Ohio, offers a helpful overview of what to think about when planning a move.

Read on to learn expert moving tips from a local moving company.

Cincinnati Moving and Storage Company Breaks Down Planning a Move 

60 Days Before You Move

Now is the time to deal with the clutter you’ve meant to sort through for years. Enlist a few friends, order lunch or dinner and sort and discard. You could also have a yard sale or put things on eBay or Craigslist. Research moving companies in the area and call for quotes. Speak to schools and doctors about transferring vital records.

30 Days Before You Move

Choose a moving company to work with and start packing the items you use the least. As you pack, make a note of any items requiring additional insurance from a moving company. Label and number each box as you pack, so it clearly indicates in which room it belongs. File a change of address with the post office and contact all banks, mortgage brokers and credit cards of your upcoming move.

Two Weeks Before You Move

Speak to your employer and ensure you have moving day off. Get your car inspected and confirm moving day details with your moving company. If you own any safe deposit boxes, clean those out and pack those items away in a clearly labeled and secure box.

One Week Before You Move

Speak to your pharmacy and get refills on all your prescriptions. Gather your suitcases and pack them with what you’ll need for the few days immediately preceding and following the move.

Three Days Before You Move

Finalize payment arrangements with your moving and storage company. Take care of details like defrosting the freezer, cleaning the refrigerator and other major appliances. Complete all details and make a note of important contact information for all parties involved in the move.

Moving Day

Be sure to confirm the moving truck that arrives is the right company and review an inventory sheet with the movers. Verify all items have been loaded onto the truck and nothing is left behind in the house. Do one final walkthrough of the house you’re leaving to ensure it is left in good condition, you have not forgotten anything, and all random loose ends are tied up.

Whether you’re moving across town or the country, working with a reliable moving and storage company to plan and execute the move can reduce your stress level. Call (513) 579-0007 or visit the Tom Carlton Movers website for a list of the company’s moving services.