Moving to Philadelphia

• Make a list of items you plan on moving to your new home and items you wish to take to storage. Dispose of the items that you do not need and consider a garage sale if you have time.
• Make a list of items to be handled by the mover and those you will handle yourself. Get estimates from several moving companies.
• Research and select a professional moving company. After selecting your mover, discuss costs, packing, timing, and other necessary details.
• Many moving expenses are tax deductible, so maintain a file with important information and receipts for moving-related expenses. 
• If moving to a new community, find out about the schools, parks, recreation, and community programs from the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitor's Bureau.
• Transfer medical, property, fire, and auto insurance through your insurance agent.
• Place all your medical records in a safe place. Don’t forget prescriptions, vaccination records, and other important information.

• If you are planning to do some part of the packing, start collecting moving and packing supplies. These can be purchased from your self storage or moving company.

• Contact the post office and fill out a change of address form. Provide your new address to your telephone company, insurance, banks, clubs, and local government agencies.

• Register your children in their new schools. It would be a good idea to involve kids in the moving process. They can help pack their toys and items from their room.

• Contact utility companies—electricity, gas, internet, cable, and others for disconnection after your scheduled move-out. And call ahead to have utilities connected to your new home.

• If you have pets, make arrangements for transportation. Find out if there are specific requirements for pet ownership in your new township. Also, obtain the veterinarian records.

• If you have young children, you might want to arrange for a babysitter on moving day to ensure they remain safe during the loading process.

• Remember to return library books and anything you have borrowed. Also, collect items you have loaned out.

• You may NOT want to pack your valuables in the moving van; think about taking them with you in a car or the van’s cab.

• If you are going to travel by car, you may want to get the automobile serviced prior to your departure.

• Start packing items you don't currently need. If renting a storage unit, determine which items go to storage.

• Disassemble your computer and back up important computer files. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.

• Dispose of flammable items like fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry sets, and other hazardous items.

• Make sure your items are labeled: 'fragile,' 'load first,' 'load last,' and 'do not load.' This is important to ensure the safety of your items.

• Ensure that your moving company knows the correct address and phone number for your new home.

• It is important to empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator at least a day before moving.

• Make plans flexible, and make arrangements in case of delays. Confirm travel arrangements and keep items you will need while the rest of your belongings are in transit.

• Pack a box separately with the things you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home. For example: snacks, disposable plates and cups, bathroom items, and trash bags.

• Thoroughly check closets, drawers, shelves, attic, and garage to make sure nothing is left.

• Turn off all switches and lock all doors and windows.

• Be around throughout the loading process. Inspect the premises and see to it that nothing is left behind.

• There must be someone to direct the movers. The driver must have in writing your name and phone number.

• Be patient if you reach your new home before your mover.

• Sign the bill of lading and make sure your new address and phone number are correct.

While unloading, make sure there is no damage and that no item is missing. Make sure utilities are connected. Carry traveler's checks or cash for quick payments. Plan out the placement of major items in your home. If moving to a new state, you will need to renew your driver's license and revise your will and other legal papers. Locate the hospitals, police stations, and fire stations near your new home.