Whether you’ve made your own decision to move, or are relocating for a job, finding the right town, neighborhood, and house are great accomplishments. Of course, there is still much to do, and organizing early will make your move as smooth as possible.

Choosing a moving company is one of the first things to do: research the companies that serve your area, and choose the one that can best meet your timeline, handle your packing and shipping needs, and deliver within your price range.

The large pieces of the moving puzzle – finding a home, choosing a mover – may seem obvious. Less obvious are the details that, using an organized method like a checklist, can be accomplished with the whole family’s help.

Identify items that can be tossed out, donated, or sold, and hold a sale for the latter if time permits. Lightening your load will decrease your volume for shipping cost savings, and will make the packing easier. This is also a good time to repair any broken items that you do intend to take with you.

Compile a list of friends’ addresses, emails, and telephone numbers (children too), so you’ll have ready access to that info for keeping in touch. Prepare your vehicle and your pet for the move; be prepared to register your vehicle in the new location, and to find a vet and obtain a local license for your pet.

A change of address form at the Post Office will take care of notifying people of your new location. However, you should directly notify any entities that need to reroute your mail in a timely fashion (bills, for example). Notify your utility companies directly as well, and find out what your utility choices are in your new area. Competitive offers are often available for cable TV, satellite, telephone, electricity, Internet, and heating options.

When the time comes for packing, create an inventory so you can keep track of what will be moved by the moving company, and what you will transport personally. This may include a car full of possessions if you are driving to the new location, or it may be simply a carry-on bag with personal documents and items if you are flying. Keep the basics on hand even for the departure day; these can include daily medications, bath linens, key phone numbers, and new house keys. If you’re moving to a location with a different climate, plan for any necessary clothing adjustments when you arrive.

Getting organized early will help you stay on task and make your move as efficient and cost-effective as possible.