Arranging your tasks into a timeline works well as you plan to move.
Here is a useful calendar.

6 Weeks Before the Move:
Figure out what you’ll take with you. Donate things you don’t need. Many organizations will pick up items from you, but be flexible about timing. Allow at least two weeks before you move. If you hold a garage sale, advertise it on Craigslist. Maybe your neighbors will participate--if so you’re likelier to get more buyers.

If you’ll be doing some or all of the packing by yourself, start gathering your supplies. You can get them from your moving company, but their prices may be higher than at other “non-moving” stores, so do some comparison shopping. Ask if your family or friends have supplies like boxes and cushioning material you can borrow. But be sure that the boxes you get are equal to the task. If you’re using a moving company, they may specify boxes of uniform sizes, which make loading of truckseasier.

Get familiar with your new community. You can get info about shopping, schools, community services, and similar topics from the local Chamber of Commerce.

Arrangements your travel. Be open to timing to schedule changes or delays.

Start a file system and store receipts for your moving related expenses.

Get an IRS Change of Address form (# 8822), by calling (800) 829-1040 or download an electronic version at www.irs.gov. Also procure Form 3903--it helps you calculate deductible moving expenses.

Work with your insurance agent to set up medical, property, fire and auto insurance for your new location.

Put your records in a safekeeping, and plan to keep them with you on moving day.

4 Weeks Before the Move:
File your Change of Address Form with the Postal Office.

Also give your new address to:
• Friends and Family • Utilities • Telephone Company • Water Company • Cable • Trash Company • Electricity Provider • Banks and Financial Institutions • Internet Provider • Insurance Companies • Creditors • Health Providers • Schools • Magazine, newspaper and other publishers • Auto Club • Church

If you and your moving company are splitting the move tasks, begin identifying the items you’ll take yourself. Create lists of what you won’t transport yourself.

3 Weeks Before the Move:
Confirm the date of your move with your moving company. Talk to them about any changes that may occurred since you first contacted them.
If a transport service will deliver you car to your new location, make that arrangement.
Coordinate transportation for your pets. Take them to your vet for vaccinations and health certificates.

2 Weeks Before the Move:
Pull together things that are currently out of your home for service, such as dry cleaning, shoes, jewelry, small appliances and so forth.
Transfer prescriptions to a new pharmacy near your new location. Do the same for bank accounts. Collect items from safe deposit boxes.
Deliver hazardous waste items to your local collection site.
If you’ll need storage in your new town, begin arrangements for it.
Work with the appropriate companies to disconnect gas, electric, phone and cable TV/Internet. Sign up for the comparable services you’ll need at your new place.
Get your car or truck serviced if you’ll be driving to your new home.

1 Week Before the Move:
Conspicuously mark the items you'll take yourself, so movers aren’t confused.
Pack the clothing you won’t need during the move.

1 Day Before the Move:
Pack your computer. Making backups of critical data. Good bet: Use online service like Mozy to ensure your data is safe from harm.
Gather things you'll need the first day or so that you’re in your new place: plates, cups, utensils; snacks; cleaning supplies; trash bags; tools. Put them in a box that you pack last so you can get to it quickly.

Defrost the refrigerator.
Charge your cell phone.

The day of your move:
Be there when movers arrive. Be sure they have your cell phone number.
Coordinate with them on an inventory of items to be moved. Monitor the condition of your items as they’re loaded.
Execute a final walk-through of your current place to make sure you forget nothing.
Sign your moving company’s bill of lading and confirm your new address.
Turn off all switches, and lock all windows and doors. Deliver keys as required.