Moving can be stressful and feel overwhelming, but by getting ready in advance, you can lessen the stress for the big moving day. Below is a timeline to help you navigate through the moving process.

Start asking friends, family and coworkers for recommendations on trustworthy moving services, if needed.

Consider what items you can part with to lower the number of moving boxes needed for your move, donate or list items on Facebook or Craigslist for quick sales.

Create an organized way of keeping track of paperwork, receipts and other documentation you will need throughout the moving process.

After getting estimates from prospective movers, select and contact your moving company with a moving date in mind. You will also need to clarify if services will also include packing.

Change your address through the post office to ensure all important mail gets forwarded to the new house.

Notify schools, doctors, dentists and veterinarians of your move and gather copies of records that can be passed on to new locations.

If you will be packing your own items, four weeks is a good time to start collecting moving supplies including boxes, tape and packing paper.

You will likely have items that won’t be used in weeks leading up to the move, so start packing these, room-by-room.

Create a necessity box of items you will be using up until the move and what will be needed upon arrival at the new house. This may include dishes, utensils and toiletries.

Pack a box of only cleaning supplies that will be easy to access once arriving at the new house, which may need a thorough cleaning before unpacking.

Check storage areas of your home for items that still need to be packed. Some areas commonly forgotten about include the garage and the attic.

Confirm that the post office received your change of address request.

Make sitter arrangements for children and pets, as they can be a big distraction on moving day. Pets are easily stressed by lots of activity, so this can make for a smoother move.

Confirm the moving date with your selected moving company.

Close bank accounts if there is not a local branch where you are relocating to.

Get a cashier’s check for movers.

Confirm the moving date with your selected moving company.

Close bank accounts if there is not a local branch where you are relocating to.

Get a cashier’s check for movers.

Complete a final inspection of your previous home after everything is moved out.

Lock all windows and doors to ensure security of your home if it is still listed for sale.

Turn off all appliances.

Arrive at the new location before the movers.

Check for any damaged items before the moving service leaves.

Overall, preparation is key to the moving process. Planning ahead will help you reduce stress and enjoy your new home.